Apple Pie Cupcakes are a delightful twist on the classic dessert. These mini treats combine the warm, spiced flavors of apple pie in an easy-to-handle cupcake form. Perfect for any occasion, such as birthdays, holidays, or cozy gatherings, they offer the nostalgic taste of homemade apple pie with a fun and modern presentation. Each bite is rich with flavor and topped with a creamy whipped topping that elevates them to another level!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even beginner bakers can whip up these delicious cupcakes.
Versatile Treat: Perfect for celebrations or casual family dinners, these Apple Pie Cupcakes fit right in at any event.
Flavorful Experience: The combination of apples, cinnamon, and whipped cream creates a mouthwatering experience that will impress your guests.
Convenient Portion Size: Unlike traditional pies, these cupcakes are easy to serve and enjoy without the need for plates or forks.
Customizable: Feel free to adjust spices or toppings to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into creating your Apple Pie Cupcakes, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk
Electric mixer
Muffin tin
Cupcake liners
Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Electric mixer: Ensures even mixing for a light and fluffy batter.
Muffin tin: Provides the perfect shape for your cupcakes and ensures even baking.
Cupcake liners: Makes clean-up easy and helps maintain the shape of each cupcake.

Ingredients

Apple Pie Cupcakes are perfectly spiced, tender cupcakes baked with apple pie filling and topped with stabilized whipped cream. They are reminiscent of a slice of apple pie but in convenient cupcake form!

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 Cupcakes

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 unsalted butter.
Add diced apples, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, salt, and flour.
Cook until apples are tender but not mushy—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: Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In another bowl, beat together room temperature butter and granulated sugar until fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Alternately add dry ingredients and whole milk to the butter mixture until just combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Cupcakes

Fill each cupcake liner halfway with batter.
Spoon about one tablespoon of cooled apple filling onto each batter-filled liner.
Top off with another layer of batter until full.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow cooling completely on a wire rack.

Step 6: Prepare Whipped Cream Topping

In a bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
Gradually add heavy cream while continuing to beat until soft peaks form.
Add sugar, vanilla extract, and salt; beat until stiff peaks form.

Step 7: Frost Your Cupcakes

Once cupcakes are fully cooled, top them generously with whipped cream using a spatula or piping bag.

Enjoy your delightful Apple Pie Cupcakes!

How to Serve Apple Pie Cupcakes

Apple Pie Cupcakes are a delicious dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your cupcake experience.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

Vanilla ice cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the spices.
Cinnamon ice cream: For an extra flavor kick, cinnamon ice cream complements the apple pie taste.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

Warm caramel sauce: Pouring warm caramel over your cupcakes gives them a rich sweetness.
Salted caramel: Adds a touch of savory contrast that enhances the overall flavor.

Topped with Nuts

Chopped pecans: Sprinkling chopped pecans on top provides crunch and nutty flavors.
Toasted almonds: Toasted almonds add an extra layer of taste and texture.

Served with Fresh Fruit

Sliced apples: Fresh apple slices add a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the cake.
Raspberries or blueberries: These berries offer a tartness that balances the sweetness of the cupcakes.

How to Perfect Apple Pie Cupcakes

To make the best Apple Pie Cupcakes, consider these helpful tips for perfect results every time.

Use fresh apples: Fresh Granny Smith apples provide the best flavor and texture for your cupcakes.
Don’t overmix: Mix your batter just until combined to keep the cupcakes light and fluffy.
Chill the cream cheese: Chilling the cream cheese before mixing helps achieve a smoother frosting consistency.
Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon and nutmeg levels to match your personal taste preferences.
Let them cool completely: Allowing cupcakes to cool completely before frosting prevents melting and sliding.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Pie Cupcakes

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Pie Cupcakes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.

Vanilla Pudding: Creamy vanilla pudding is an easy side that complements the cupcake’s flavors.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers freshness and balances out the sweetness of the cupcakes.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses adds savory elements that contrast beautifully with sweet cupcakes.
Spiced Tea: A warm cup of spiced tea enhances the cozy flavors found in Apple Pie Cupcakes.
Coffee: A brewed coffee brings out the spices in the cupcakes while providing a comforting warmth.
Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit creates a delightful contrast in texture and taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Apple Pie Cupcakes can be a delightful experience, but it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls.

Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to tough cupcakes. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
Skipping the flour coating: Failing to coat apples in flour before adding them can cause them to sink. Toss your diced apples in a bit of flour to keep them suspended in the batter.
Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect the cupcake’s rise and texture. Always use room temperature ingredients for best results.
Ignoring the oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Not letting cupcakes cool properly: Removing cupcakes too soon from the pan can cause them to break apart. Allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

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 individually in plastic wrap.
Place wrapped cupcakes in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Apple Pie Cupcakes

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Warm cupcakes for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat cupcakes one at a time on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
Stovetop: Place cupcakes in a covered skillet on low heat for about 5 minutes or until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Apple Pie Cupcakes, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

Can I make Apple Pie Cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cupcakes a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. Add whipped cream just before serving.

What type of apples are best for Apple Pie Cupcakes?

Granny Smith apples are great due to their tartness, but you can mix them with sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp for added flavor.

How do I prevent my cupcakes from sinking?

Ensure your baking powder is fresh and coat your apple pieces with flour before folding them into the batter.

Can I use store-bought apple pie filling instead?

Absolutely! Using store-bought filling saves time and still gives you that delicious apple pie taste in your cupcakes.

Are these cupcakes suitable for freezing?

Yes, these Apple Pie Cupcakes freeze well. Just ensure they are wrapped securely before freezing.

Final Thoughts

Apple Pie Cupcakes combine the classic flavors of apple pie with the convenience of cup-sized treats. These delightful desserts are perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying at home. Feel free to customize with different spices or toppings; possibilities are endless!

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Apple Pie Cupcakes

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Author: Cara
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12 cupcakes 1x

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Description

Apple Pie Cupcakes are a delightful and modern take on the classic dessert, combining the warm, spiced essence of apple pie into a convenient cupcake form. Each bite is bursting with rich flavors from Granny Smith apples, cinnamon, and a creamy whipped topping, bringing nostalgia to every occasion. Ideal for birthdays, holidays, or cozy family gatherings, these cupcakes offer a fun twist that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients

Scale

3 medium Granny Smith apples
3 tablespoons granulated sugar
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 all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
¾ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs (room temperature)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ cup whole milk
2 ounces cream cheese (softened)
½ cup granulated sugar
2 cups heavy cream
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
1 pinch kosher salt

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Instructions

Prepare the apple filling by cooking diced apples with butter, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, salt, and flour until tender.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line muffin tins with cupcake liners.
Make the batter by mixing dry ingredients separately from creamed butter and sugar. Combine both mixtures with milk.
Fill each liner halfway with batter, add a spoonful of apple filling, then top with more batter.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean; cool completely on wire racks.
For the topping, whip cream cheese and cream together with sugar until stiff peaks form and frost cooled cupcakes.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American