Apple Pie Cupcakes are a sweet twist on the classic dessert! These little bites are filled with yummy apple bits and topped with creamy frosting that tastes just like pie.
Who knew pie could fit in a cupcake? I love how these treat-sized desserts are perfect for sharing (or keeping all to myself!). Perfect with a scoop of ice cream on the side—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith apples are great for this recipe because of their tartness. If you prefer something sweeter, Fuji or Honeycrisp are tasty options too. You can use canned apple pie filling if you’re short on time, but fresh apples add great texture!
Butter: Unsalted butter is the best choice to control the salt in your cupcakes. If you’re dairy-free, consider using coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute. They work well and won’t change the flavor much!
Sour Cream/Yogurt: This adds moisture and richness. If you want a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or buttermilk. I’ve found that Greek yogurt gives a slight tang that’s really nice in these cupcakes!
Cream Cheese: For frosting, cream cheese is a must for that classic flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, whipped topping can also work, but it won’t have the same rich taste.
How Do I Ensure My Cupcakes Stay Moist and Fluffy?
Getting the perfect cupcake texture can be tricky! Here’s what I do:
- Make sure not to overmix your batter when adding flour. Mix just until combined to keep cupcakes light.
- Don’t skip the cooling time! Let them cool properly on a wire rack. This helps avoid a soggy bottom.
- Also, check the doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, you’re good to go!
Follow these tips, and you’ll have deliciously fluffy Apple Pie Cupcakes every time! Enjoy baking!
Apple Pie Cupcakes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1 cup peeled, cored, and finely chopped apples (such as Granny Smith or Fuji)
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2-3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For Garnish:
- Apple pie filling or small chunks of apple pie crust
- Ground cinnamon
- Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 25 minutes of prep time, followed by 18-22 minutes of baking. After making the cupcakes, give them some time to cool completely before frosting. You’ll be enjoying delicious Apple Pie Cupcakes in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Muffin Tin:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, line a 12-cup muffin tin with your favorite cupcake liners to make cleanup a breeze!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves. This will ensure your cupcakes rise well and have a lovely spice flavor!
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes. It’s a great workout for your arms, and it creates a light base for the cupcakes!
4. Add Wet Ingredients:
Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for sweetness. It really enhances the cupcake flavor!
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Now, add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the sour cream or yogurt—start with the dry, then add a bit of sour cream, and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want those cupcakes to be fluffy and delicious!
6. Fold in the Apples:
Gently fold in your finely chopped apples. This adds that delightful apple pie flavor to your cupcakes!
7. Fill the Muffin Tin:
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full to allow room for rising.
8. Bake:
Pop the cupcakes into the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. Use a toothpick to check; if it comes out clean, they’re done!
9. Cool the Cupcakes:
After baking, let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important to prevent them from getting soggy!
10. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:
While your cupcakes are cooling, make the frosting. Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the vanilla and cinnamon, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar until you reach your desired sweetness and consistency.
11. Frost the Cupcakes:
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread the frosting on top. Get creative with the frosting style—swirls or simple spreads work beautifully!
12. Add the Garnish:
Finish them off by drizzling with caramel sauce, sprinkling with a bit of cinnamon, and adding a small piece of apple pie crust or some apple pie filling on top.
13. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Apple Pie Cupcakes are ready to be served! These delightful treats are perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying at home with a cup of coffee or tea. They’re the wonderful flavors of apple pie in a fun cupcake form!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples in These Cupcakes?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness, you can use any variety that you enjoy, like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or even Gala apples. Just make sure they are peeled and finely chopped for the best texture in your cupcakes!
How Can I Store Leftover Cupcakes?
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days or in the fridge for up to a week. If you’ve added frosting, it’s best to keep them refrigerated to maintain freshness. Just bring them to room temperature before serving for the best taste!
Can I Make These Cupcakes Gluten-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binding agent, as this will help give your cupcakes the right texture!
What Is the Best Way to Frost the Cupcakes?
The best way to frost these cupcakes is to use a piping bag fitted with your choice of tip for a beautiful swirl. If you don’t have a piping bag, you can simply spread the frosting on with a knife or offset spatula. Add extra flair with caramel drizzle and sprinkles of cinnamon for garnish!