These Apple Pie Cupcakes are a fun twist on the classic dessert. Soft and fluffy cupcakes are filled with sweet apple filling and topped with creamy frosting—yum!
Honestly, who can resist a mini apple pie in cupcake form? I love serving them at parties because they always bring a smile. Plus, they’re great for sharing! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance with the sweetness. If you prefer sweeter cupcakes, opt for Honeycrisp or Fuji. If fresh apples aren’t available, unsweetened applesauce works as a substitution—reduce the sugar in the recipe slightly.
Flour: All-purpose flour is great for structure, but you can use a gluten-free blend if needed! Make sure it’s one that includes xanthan gum for proper texture.
Sour Cream/Yogurt: These add moisture and a slight tang. If you want a lighter option, feel free to use Greek yogurt or even buttermilk for a similar effect.
Cream Cheese: I love cream cheese frosting for its richness, but you could substitute with mascarpone or make a simple vanilla buttercream instead. Just adjust the sweetness accordingly!
What’s the Best Way to Caramelize Apples for Filling?
Caramelizing apples beautifully enhances their flavor and adds a lovely texture. Here’s how to do it just right:
- Start with a skillet on medium heat and melt butter. The key is to not rush this process!
- Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. This mix creates a delightful sweet-sour balance.
- Cook while stirring occasionally for about 8-10 minutes until the apples are tender and golden. Patience is important—don’t skip this step!
- Let the filling cool completely before using to avoid soggy cupcakes!
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
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1 cup finely chopped peeled apples (about 1 medium apple)
For the Apple Pie Filling:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cups peeled, diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
For Garnish:
- Small cubes of baked cinnamon sugar bread or cake (to resemble pie crust pieces)
- Caramel sauce for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delectable recipe takes approximately 30 minutes of prep time and about 25 minutes for baking, plus some cooling time. Allow extra time if you choose to fill the cupcakes with apple pie filling or frost them right after baking. Overall, you’re looking at about 1 hour and a half from start to finish including cooling!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apple Pie Filling:
In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Set the mixture aside to cool completely.
2. Make the Cupcakes:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Then, add the eggs one at a time, ensuring to beat well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and mix in the sour cream or yogurt until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the finely chopped peeled apples. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Fill the Cupcakes:
Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, you can fill them if you like! Use a small knife or a cupcake corer to remove a small section from the center of each cupcake. Spoon a little of the apple pie filling into the hole. You can replace the cut-out piece if desired for a neat finish.
4. Prepare the Frosting:
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition until you reach the desired frosting consistency. Stir in vanilla extract and cinnamon if you choose to enhance that lovely spice flavor.
5. Assemble the Cupcakes:
Generously pipe or spread the cream cheese frosting on top of each cooled cupcake. Garnish with small cubes of baked cinnamon sugar bread or cake on top to resemble pie crust pieces. For an indulgent touch, drizzle with caramel sauce over the frosting.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
These Apple Pie Cupcakes can be served immediately, or you can refrigerate them until you’re ready to enjoy! Just be sure to bring them back to room temperature for the best flavor experience.
These scrumptious Apple Pie Cupcakes capture the warm, cozy flavors of a traditional apple pie, beautifully encased in a moist cupcake with a creamy frosting. Perfect for sharing and enjoying during autumn gatherings or anytime you want a sweet treat!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! Granny Smith apples work well for their tartness, but you can also use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or even a mix of your favorites. Just keep in mind that sweeter apples will result in a sweeter cupcake!
How Do I Store Leftover Cupcakes?
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture!
Can I Make the Cupcakes Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the cupcakes and apple pie filling a day in advance. Just assemble and frost them on the day you plan to serve. This helps keep the cupcakes fresh and moist!
Is There a Substitute for Cream Cheese in the Frosting?
Certainly! If you’d like a different flavor, you can use mascarpone cheese or even a simple vanilla buttercream as an alternative. Just adjust the sweetness of the frosting if needed!
