Apple Pie Cupcakes
Apple Pie Cupcakes are a delicious twist on a classic dessert, combining the warm flavors of apple pie with the convenience of cupcakes. These delightful treats are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to holiday celebrations. With their tender texture and luscious whipped cream topping, Apple Pie Cupcakes offer a unique way to enjoy the beloved flavors of fall in a portable form.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of spiced apples and rich vanilla cream creates a taste experience that is simply unforgettable.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, you’ll find that these cupcakes come together quickly, making them ideal for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a cozy fall gathering, these cupcakes will impress guests and satisfy sweet cravings.
- Perfectly Portion-Controlled: Unlike traditional pies, these cupcakes allow for easy serving and portioning without sacrificing flavor.
- Showstopper Presentation: Topped with stabilized whipped cream, they not only taste amazing but also look stunning on any dessert table.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make baking your Apple Pie Cupcakes smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Muffin tin
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Muffin tin: Ensures even baking and perfect cupcake shapes.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing batter and whipping cream.
- Spatula: Helps to fold ingredients gently without deflating your batter.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 medium Granny Smith apples, (cored, peeled and diced small)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
For the Cupcake Batter
- 1 ½ cups (187.5 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ cup (170 g) unsalted butter, (room temperature)
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup (122.5 g) whole milk
For the Whipped Cream Topping
- 2 ounces cream cheese, (softened)
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 2 cups (476 g) heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch kosher salt
How to Make Apple Pie Cupcakes
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the diced apples, granulated sugar, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, kosher salt, and flour.
- Cook until apples are tender and mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
– All-purpose flour
– Baking powder
– Ground cinnamon
– Ground nutmeg
– Kosher salt
Set aside.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl using an electric mixer, beat together:
– Unsalted butter
– Granulated sugar
Until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add in:
– Large eggs
– Vanilla extract
Mix until well combined.
Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet Mixture
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture while alternating with whole milk. Mix just until combined; do not overmix.
Step 7: Assemble Cupcakes
Fill each cupcake liner halfway with batter. Add about one tablespoon of the apple filling on top of the batter before covering it with more batter until each liner is about two-thirds full.
Step 8: Bake Your Cupcakes
Bake for approximately 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cooling in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Step 9: Make Whipped Cream Topping
In a large bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth. Gradually add heavy cream while beating until stiff peaks form. Stir in vanilla extract and kosher salt.
Step 10: Frost Your Cupcakes
Once cupcakes have cooled completely, generously frost each cupcake with whipped cream topping using a piping bag or spatula.
Enjoy your delicious Apple Pie Cupcakes with family and friends!
How to Serve Apple Pie Cupcakes
Apple Pie Cupcakes are a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, these cupcakes will impress everyone with their unique flavor and presentation.
For a Festive Gathering
- Decorate with Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor.
- Add Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the whipped cream for a rich, sweet touch.
With Coffee or Tea
- Pair with Cinnamon Tea: Enjoy these cupcakes alongside a warm cup of cinnamon tea for a comforting experience.
- Serve with Espresso: The strong flavor of espresso complements the sweetness of the cupcakes beautifully.
As Party Favors
- Wrap Individually: Place each cupcake in a clear bag tied with ribbon for an elegant party favor.
- Use Decorative Boxes: Present them in small boxes adorned with seasonal decorations for special events.
For Kid’s Parties
- Fun Toppings: Let kids customize their cupcakes with colorful sprinkles and edible glitter.
- Mini Versions: Bake mini apple pie cupcakes for little hands to hold easily.
How to Perfect Apple Pie Cupcakes
To ensure your Apple Pie Cupcakes turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose fresh apples: Use Granny Smith apples for the best tartness and texture in your filling.
- Mix ingredients well: Ensure that all batter ingredients are mixed until just combined to avoid tough cupcakes.
- Bake at the right temperature: Preheat your oven adequately to maintain consistent baking conditions.
- Cool before frosting: Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before adding whipped cream to prevent it from melting.
- Stabilize whipped cream: Add powdered sugar or cornstarch to your whipped cream to help it hold its shape longer.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Pie Cupcakes
Apple Pie Cupcakes can be enhanced by serving them with complementary side dishes. Here are some great suggestions.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds richness that pairs well with spiced cupcakes.
- Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: These fluffy treats provide an additional layer of cinnamon sweetness that’s perfect alongside the cupcakes.
- Caramel Pudding: The smooth texture of caramel pudding contrasts nicely with the fluffy cupcakes.
- Spiced Hot Cider: Warm spiced apple cider brings out the flavors in the cupcakes, making it a comforting pairing.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, especially sharp cheddar, balances the sweetness of the cupcakes beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and complements the apple flavor while keeping things light.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Apple Pie Cupcakes, a few common pitfalls can affect your results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make your cupcakes tough. Stir until just combined for a light texture.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Don’t frost the cupcakes while they’re warm. Let them cool completely to avoid melting the frosting.
- Not Measuring Correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Use a kitchen scale for precision or properly spoon and level dry ingredients.
- Ignoring Oven Temperature: An oven that’s too hot or cold can ruin your cupcakes. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking conditions.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Apple Pie Cupcakes in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Apple Pie Cupcakes
- Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
- These cupcakes can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Apple Pie Cupcakes
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place cupcakes on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual cupcakes for about 15-20 seconds on medium power. Be careful not to overheat, as it can change the texture.
- Stovetop: Place a cupcake in a skillet over low heat with a lid on. Heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Apple Pie Cupcakes taste like apple pie?
The combination of apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg in the batter replicates the classic flavors of apple pie, creating a delightful treat.
Can I customize my Apple Pie Cupcakes?
Yes! You can add nuts, raisins, or different spices like ginger for added flavor variations that enhance these delicious cupcakes.
How do I make Apple Pie Filling for my cupcakes?
Simply cook diced apples with sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and flour on the stovetop until tender. This creates a perfect filling for your cupcakes.
Can I use other types of apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide tartness, you can mix different varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for sweetness and texture.
Final Thoughts
Apple Pie Cupcakes offer a charming twist on traditional dessert favorites. Their comforting flavors and customizable options make them perfect for any occasion. Try these delightful treats today and experience the joy they bring!
Apple Pie Cupcakes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 cupcakes 1x
Description
Apple Pie Cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic dessert, merging the warm, comforting flavors of traditional apple pie with the convenience of cupcakes. These treats feature a tender apple filling spiced with cinnamon, all topped with a luscious whipped cream frosting. Perfect for any occasion—from family gatherings to festive celebrations—these cupcakes are not only delicious but also visually stunning. Each bite offers a nostalgic taste of fall, making them an irresistible choice for dessert lovers.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 medium Granny Smith apples, cored, peeled and diced small
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups (187.5 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¾ cup (170 g) unsalted butter, room temperature
- ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup (122.5 g) whole milk
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 2 cups (476 g) heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch kosher salt
Instructions
- For the apple filling, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add diced apples, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, salt, and flour; cook until tender (about 5-7 minutes). Let cool.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
- In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla; mix well.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with the wet mixture while alternating with milk until just combined.
- Fill each liner halfway with batter, add one tablespoon of apple filling, then cover with more batter until two-thirds full.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool before frosting.
- For the whipped cream topping, beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Gradually add heavy cream until stiff peaks form; mix in vanilla and salt.
- Frost cooled cupcakes generously.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake (75g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
