These Apple Pie Cupcakes pack all the cozy flavors of apple pie in a fun, easy-to-eat treat! With soft vanilla cake, bits of apple, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, they’re sure to delight everyone.
Honestly, who wouldn’t want a cupcake that tastes like pie? I love to top them with a dollop of whipped cream—it’s like the cherry on top, but way better! 🍏🧁
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This is the base for the cupcakes. If you need a gluten-free option, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead. It works surprisingly well!
Unsalted butter: I love using room-temperature butter because it blends smoothly into the batter. If you’re in a pinch, you can swap with an equal amount of vegetable oil or melted coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Apples: Options like Honeycrisp or Gala are sweet and crisp. If unavailable, feel free to use Fuji or Granny Smith for a tart flavor. You could even mix different apple varieties for more depth.
Sour cream: This ingredient adds moisture. If you prefer a lighter version, plain yogurt works well, and for dairy-free, coconut yogurt is a nice alternative.
Heavy cream: When whipping for frosting, it’s key to use chilled cream for the best volume. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Cool Whip or a mixture of whipped coconut cream.
How Can I Make Sure My Cupcakes Stay Moist?
Moisture is crucial for great cupcakes, and there are a couple of techniques to help ensure yours turn out perfect each time.
- Use room temperature ingredients. Allow your butter and eggs to sit out for a bit before baking; this helps them blend well.
- Mix just until combined. Over-mixing can lead to tough cupcakes, so gently fold your dry ingredients and apples until no flour streaks remain.
- Check for doneness using a toothpick; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re done. Don’t overbake, as this will dry them out.
Following these tips can help you achieve moist and delicious cupcakes. Enjoy baking your Apple Pie Cupcakes! 🍏🧁
Delicious Apple Pie Cupcakes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1 large apple (such as Honeycrisp or Gala), peeled and diced into small pieces
For The Frosting:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2-3 tbsp powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
For Garnish:
- Small apple pieces sautéed in cinnamon and a little brown sugar
- Ground cinnamon for dusting
- Caramel sauce for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes of prep time and 20-25 minutes of baking time. Don’t forget to allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting, which might take an additional 20-30 minutes. Overall, you can expect to spend about an hour before they’re ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cupcakes will bake evenly. While that’s happening, line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to get ready for your batter.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This blends the dry ingredients well and helps the leavening agents activate.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together with a mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Now, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract for that sweet flavor that everyone loves!
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Alternately add the dry ingredients and sour cream to the butter mixture, starting and finishing with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined—you don’t want to overmix!
6. Incorporate Apples:
Gently fold in the diced apple pieces. This step adds delicious fruity bites to your cupcakes!
7. Fill the Cupcake Liners:
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. This allows space for them to rise without overflowing.
8. Bake:
Place your filled muffin tin in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack once done.
9. Prepare the Frosting:
While the cupcakes cool, take a chilled bowl and whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until you see stiff peaks form. It’s going to be fluffy and delightful!
10. Sauté Apple Garnish:
For a lovely topping, sauté small pieces of apple in a pan over medium heat with a little butter, cinnamon, and brown sugar until they’re tender and caramelized. Let them cool down.
11. Frost the Cupcakes:
Once your cupcakes are cooled, pipe or spoon the whipped cream frosting right on top. Feel free to be as creative as you want!
12. Add Finishing Touches:
Create a beautiful finish by garnishing with the sautéed apple pieces, a light dusting of cinnamon, and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
13. Serve and Enjoy:
These cupcakes can be served immediately or refrigerated until you’re ready to delight your friends and family. Enjoy your cozy apple pie flavors in these delightful cupcakes!
Can I Use Different Apples for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Gala are great choices for their sweetness and crunch, you can use Fuji or Granny Smith apples as well. Mixing different varieties can give your cupcakes a nice flavor depth!
How Should I Store Leftover Cupcakes?
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to add the frosting just before serving to keep it fresh and fluffy.
Can I Make the Cupcakes Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day in advance. Allow them to cool completely, then cover and refrigerate. Frost them just before serving for the best texture and taste!
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream for the Frosting?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use Cool Whip or whipped coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Both options give a nice fluffy texture for the frosting!
