Description
Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting deliver the comforting flavors of apple pie in a charming, easy-to-eat cupcake form. Tender cupcakes loaded with sautéed Granny Smith apples and warm spices are topped with a smooth, creamy cinnamon cream cheese frosting. This recipe combines classic autumn flavors with a portable, fun dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
																
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			Cupcake Ingredients
- 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and finely chopped
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk or plant-based alternative
Frosting Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1–2 tbsp milk or plant-based alternative (to adjust consistency)
Instructions
- Prep the apples: Peel, core, and finely chop the Granny Smith apples. Sauté them gently with a sprinkle of cinnamon over medium heat until slightly tender but still holding their shape to maintain texture in the cupcakes.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, and baking soda to evenly combine spices and leavening agents.
- Cream butter and sugar: Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the unsalted butter and brown sugar together until fluffy and light, creating a smooth base that traps air for rise.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Incorporate eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract for enhanced aroma and flavor.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually alternate folding the dry ingredients and milk into the creamed mixture, mixing just until combined to keep the batter tender.
- Fold in apples: Gently fold the sautéed apples into the batter, distributing evenly without overmixing to retain the fruit’s delicate texture.
- Bake the cupcakes: Divide batter evenly into a lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes until golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Make the frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and fold in ground cinnamon. Add milk as needed for a creamy, pipeable consistency.
- Frost the cooled cupcakes: Allow cupcakes to cool completely before generously frosting them with the cinnamon cream cheese frosting using a spatula or piping bag for a polished finish.
Notes
- Chop apples finely to ensure even distribution and tender bites.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep cupcakes soft and light.
- Soften cream cheese and butter before frosting to prevent lumps and create smooth texture.
- Use a toothpick test to check cupcake doneness to avoid underbaking.
- Use fresh ground cinnamon and nutmeg for the most vibrant flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-22 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: apple pie cupcakes, cinnamon cream cheese frosting, apple dessert, fall recipe, easy cupcakes, spiced cupcakes
