These apple pie cupcakes combine the warm flavors of apple pie with the soft, fluffy texture of a cupcake. They have a moist, spiced base, a sweet apple filling, and a buttery frosting with a hint of cinnamon sugar. Perfect for fall or any time you want a cozy homemade treat.
Key Benefits of Apple Pie Cupcakes
- Delicious Apple Pie Flavor – These cupcakes bring the comforting taste of classic apple pie in a soft, handheld treat.
- Moist and Fluffy Texture – A perfectly balanced spice cupcake that stays tender with every bite.
- Homemade Apple Filling – A sweet, cinnamon-kissed apple filling adds authentic pie flavor to each cupcake.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions make this recipe approachable for all skill levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for fall gatherings, holiday desserts, or whenever you crave a cozy, homemade treat.
Ingredients for apple pie cupcakes
For the Cupcakes:
- All-purpose flour – Provides the structure for your cupcakes.
- Baking powder & baking soda – Ensure proper rise and texture.
- Cinnamon & nutmeg – Add the classic apple pie spices for warmth and flavor.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- Unsalted butter – Gives moisture and richness to the cupcakes.
- Granulated & brown sugar – Adds sweetness and a slight molasses flavor.
- Eggs – Contribute to structure and moisture.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
- Milk – Adds moisture for a soft texture.
For the Apple Filling:
- Apples – The star of the filling, adding a sweet and tart flavor.
- Butter – Provides richness to the filling.
- Brown sugar & cinnamon – Sweetens and spices up the apples.
- Lemon juice – This adds brightness and balances the sweetness.
- Cornstarch and water – This thickens the filling for a perfect texture.
For the Frosting:
- Unsalted butter – It creates a smooth and creamy texture.
- Powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
- Vanilla extract – This adds flavor to the frosting.
- Milk – Helps achieve the right frosting consistency.
- Cinnamon – Ties the frosting flavor to the apple pie theme.
Instructions for apple pie cupcakes
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, then add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften.
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 1–2 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Remove from heat and let it cool while you make the cupcakes.
Step 2: Make the Cupcake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In a separate large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk, mixing until just combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full.
Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
In a large bowl, beat butter until smooth.
Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until fluffy.
Stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon, and milk, beating until the frosting reaches a creamy consistency.
Step 5: Assemble the Cupcakes
Use a small knife or cupcake corer to remove the center of each cupcake.
Fill the hole with the cooled apple filling.
Pipe or spread the buttercream frosting on top.
Pro Tips for apple pie cupcakes
Choose the Right Apples: For the perfect apple filling, opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This balance gives the filling a deliciously complex flavor.
Chill the Cupcakes: Allow your cupcakes to cool completely before filling them. This helps prevent the warm cupcakes from melting the frosting and ensures that the apple filling stays in place.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the apple filling and frosting a day ahead. Store the filling in the fridge and let it come to room temperature before using. The frosting can be stored in an airtight container as well.
Test for Doneness: Every oven is different, so be sure to check your cupcakes by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they’re ready.
Frosting Tips: For a smoother frosting, sift the powdered sugar before adding it to the butter. This will help avoid any lumps and give you a silky finish.
Caramel Drizzle: For an extra touch, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top of the frosting for added flavor and a stunning presentation.
By following these easy tips, you’ll achieve the best apple pie cupcakes that are not only delicious but also a fun treat to share with friends and family.
Variations
While these apple pie cupcakes are absolutely delicious as they are, there are plenty of fun ways to mix things up! Here are some creative variations to try:
Caramel Apple Filling: For an extra indulgent twist, stir some caramel sauce into the apple filling before adding it to the cupcakes. This adds a rich, buttery sweetness that complements the cinnamon apples beautifully.
Spiced Frosting: If you want to elevate the flavor even more, try adding a dash of cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the frosting for a more seasonal kick. It will enhance the fall flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these cupcakes suitable for gluten-sensitive friends or family.
Serving Suggestions for Apple Pie Cupcakes
These apple pie cupcakes are a versatile treat that pairs wonderfully with a variety of beverages and sides. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them with a cozy afternoon coffee, here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience:
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or a spiced chai tea complements the cinnamon and apple flavors perfectly. The cozy, aromatic notes make it the ideal pairing for these cupcakes.
Vanilla Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent treat, serve your cupcakes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture balances the spiced apple filling, creating a dessert dream.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Add a caramel sauce drizzle over the top of the frosting for an extra burst of sweetness. It not only adds flavor but also creates a stunning presentation.
Fresh Whipped Cream: Top each cupcake with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The light, airy texture contrasts beautifully with the dense apple filling and frosting.
These apple pie cupcakes are deliciously versatile and can be tailored to suit any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them on their own or as part of a dessert spread, they’re sure to be a hit!
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FAQs about apple pie cupcakes
Can I make the apple pie cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes! You can easily prepare these cupcakes in advance. Bake the cupcakes a day or two ahead and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. The apple filling and frosting can be made in advance as well. Just refrigerate the filling and frosting, then assemble and frost the cupcakes on the day you plan to serve them. This helps save time and makes serving even easier!
Can I use canned apple pie filling instead of making my own?
Yes! If you’re short on time, you can use canned apple pie filling. Just make sure to drain the filling well before using it in your cupcakes to avoid sogginess. For a homemade touch, you can add a bit of cinnamon and lemon juice to enhance the flavor.
How can I make the frosting less sweet?
If you find the frosting too sweet, reduce the amount of powdered sugar and add a little more cream to achieve a creamier texture. You can also add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and enhance the flavor of the frosting.
apple pie cupcakes
Ingredients
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk
For the Apple Filling:
- 2 medium apples peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 1–2 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Make the Cupcake Batter
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. In another large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract. Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk, mixing until just combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes
- Fill the cupcake liners about ⅔ full with batter. Bake for 18–20 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.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
- Beat butter in a large bowl until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract, cinnamon, and milk, beating until the frosting reaches a creamy consistency.
Step 5: Assemble the Cupcakes
- Use a small knife or cupcake corer to remove the center of each cupcake. Fill the hole with the cooled apple filling. Pipe or spread the buttercream frosting on top.