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Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting
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Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting offer a perfect handheld treat combining tender apple pieces with warm cinnamon spice and a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting. This easy-to-make recipe delivers moist cupcakes rich in comforting apple pie flavors, ideal for any occasion from family gatherings to festive celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

Cupcake Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh, crisp apples (peeled, finely chopped)
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free version)
  • 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon, divided
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Frosting Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened (dairy-free cream cheese for dairy-free option)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (vegan butter for dairy-free option)
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Variations & Additions

  • Chopped pecans or walnuts (for extra crunch)
  • Nutmeg, cloves, or allspice (additional spices)
  • Caramel sauce (for drizzle)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Apples: Peel and finely chop the apples, then toss them in ½ tsp of ground cinnamon and a tablespoon of brown sugar to enhance their natural sweetness and spice.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and remaining 1 tsp ground cinnamon until evenly combined.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a mixer, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until fluffy and light, forming the base of the cupcake batter.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in vanilla extract to deepen the flavor.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet batter, taking care not to overmix to keep the cupcakes tender.
  6. Fold in Apples: Gently fold the seasoned apple pieces into the batter, ensuring even distribution throughout.
  7. Bake the Cupcakes: Spoon the batter into lined cupcake tins and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Prepare the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, whipping until fluffy and spreadable.
  9. Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, pipe or spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting generously over each cupcake for the signature finish.

Notes

  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a tangy contrast that holds up well during baking.
  • Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smoother batter and frosting textures.
  • Do not overmix the batter to avoid dense cupcakes; fold gently until just combined.
  • Cool cupcakes completely before frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
  • Use a piping bag with a star tip to create a professional-looking frosting swirl.
  • Coat apple pieces lightly with flour before folding in to prevent sinking to the bottom.
  • Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze unfrosted cupcakes wrapped individually for up to 3 months; thaw fully before frosting.
  • Avoid freezing cupcakes after frosting as cream cheese texture may change.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple pie cupcakes, cinnamon cream cheese frosting, apple cupcake recipe, fall dessert, gluten-free cupcakes, spiced cupcakes

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/apple-pie-cupcakes-with-cinnamon-cream-cheese-frosting/