If you adore the classic comforts of apple pie but want a delightful twist that’s perfect for any occasion, you are going to fall in love with this Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe. Imagine all the warm, cozy flavors of spiced apples baked into a tender, moist cupcake, then topped with a luxuriously fluffy cinnamon frosting that makes each bite pure bliss. These cupcakes bring the best of both worlds with a delicious surprise of apple pie filling nestled inside and a creamy swirl of cinnamon frosting on top. Whether you’re serving guests or enjoying a sweet treat at home, this recipe is a guaranteed showstopper that’s just as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe plays an essential role in creating layers of flavor, from the buttery texture of the cupcakes to the sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple filling and the creamy cinnamon frosting. They’re simple staples that come together to create something truly special.
- All-purpose flour (1 ½ cups): Provides the perfect base for tender and fluffy cupcakes.
- Baking powder (1 ½ teaspoons): Helps the cupcakes rise beautifully for a light crumb.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup plus ½ cup, room temperature): Adds richness and moisture to both the cupcakes and frosting.
- Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cake just right without being cloying.
- Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients together for perfect structure.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons for cupcakes + 1 teaspoon for frosting): Brings out the warm, comforting notes in every bite.
- Whole milk (½ cup): Keeps the batter moist and tender.
- Large apples (2, peeled, cored, chopped): The heart of this recipe, offering natural sweetness and a lovely texture.
- Brown sugar (¼ cup): Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the apple filling.
- Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon): Balances sweetness in the filling and helps create a syrupy glaze.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon for filling + 1 ½ teaspoons for frosting): The signature spice that ties everything together with warmth and aroma.
- Cornstarch (1 teaspoon, optional): For thickening the apple filling to the perfect consistency.
- Water (1 tablespoon, optional): Used to make a slurry with cornstarch for thickening.
- Powdered sugar (2 cups): Essential for that smooth, sweet cinnamon frosting.
- Heavy cream or milk (2 tablespoons): Creates a fluffy and spreadable frosting texture.
How to Make Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cupcake Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a muffin tin with cupcake liners. In one bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt – this dry mix ensures light, tender cupcakes. In a separate large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about three minutes, which will give your cupcakes a wonderful airy texture. Add in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, and then mix in the vanilla extract. Finally, alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients, folding gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
Step 2: Bake the Cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is crucial to keep the cupcakes from crumbling when we fill them later.
Step 3: Make the Apple Pie Filling
While the cupcakes are baking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped apples along with the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Stir frequently as the apples soften and the sugars melt into a syrup—this usually takes around 8 to 10 minutes. If your filling turns out too runny, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it into the apples to thicken it up. Once ready, remove from heat and let it cool fully before using it in the cupcakes.
Step 4: Core and Fill the Cupcakes
When the cupcakes are cool, use a small knife or a cupcake corer to carefully remove the center of each cupcake down to about halfway, creating a little pocket for the filling. Spoon a generous amount of the cooled apple pie filling into each hollow, making each bite a delightful surprise of warm spice and sweetness.
Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Frosting
Beat the room temperature butter in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, about one cup at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to avoid lumps. Stir in the vanilla extract and the ground cinnamon for that signature spiced flavor. Slowly add the heavy cream, then beat everything on high speed until the frosting becomes light, fluffy, and spreadable—just the perfect consistency for piping.
Step 6: Frost and Garnish
Fill a piping bag fitted with a star tip with the cinnamon frosting, then generously pipe swirls onto each filled cupcake. For an optional finishing touch, sprinkle a light dusting of cinnamon sugar or extra cinnamon on top. And that’s it—you’re ready to enjoy these irresistible Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe desserts!
How to Serve Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate these cupcakes beautifully. A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or a few finely chopped nuts on top adds texture and a little extra flavor spark. You could also place a thin apple slice or a small cinnamon stick as a charming decoration that hints at the flavors inside.
Side Dishes
These cupcakes pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. If you want something lighter, a fresh fruit salad with autumn fruits like pears, cranberries, or grapes complements the spices nicely without overpowering the cupcakes.
Creative Ways to Present
Present your Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe on a rustic wooden board or a pretty cake stand for a cozy, inviting look. You can arrange them with mini caramel sauce jars or individual hot cider mugs to set a festive fall mood. Wrapping them in cupcake wrappers with fall-themed designs can also add a fun touch if you’re sharing them as gifts.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerating them in a sealed container will keep them fresh up to four days. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving to enjoy the frosting at its best.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cupcakes in a single layer on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to three months. Freeze the frosting separately in an airtight container. When ready to serve, thaw cupcakes at room temperature and re-whip the frosting slightly before piping.
Reheating
If you want to enjoy warm cupcakes, gently warm them in the microwave for about 10 seconds or in a low oven for a few minutes. Avoid reheating the frosting directly as it may melt. Add fresh frosting or a little cream on the side for an extra indulgent touch if desired.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for the filling?
Absolutely! Tart apples like Granny Smith offer lovely tanginess, while sweeter apples like Fuji or Gala provide a milder sweetness. Feel free to mix varieties for a more complex filling.
What if I don’t have cornstarch—can I skip it?
You can skip the cornstarch, but the apple filling may be a bit runnier. Alternatively, cooking the apples a little longer will help reduce the liquid naturally.
Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum or add some to provide structure, as gluten-free batters behave differently.
How long does the cinnamon frosting last?
The cinnamon frosting stays fresh for up to five days when refrigerated in an airtight container. Let it come to room temperature and beat lightly before using if it becomes firm.
Is there a way to lighten the frosting?
You can reduce the powdered sugar slightly and add more heavy cream or milk to make a lighter, fluffier frosting. Just keep in mind it may be less stable at warmer temperatures.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about merging the comforting essence of apple pie with the fun, handheld form of cupcakes. This Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe perfectly captures that magic, making it a delightful dessert for all seasons. I can’t wait for you to try baking these at home and experience the warm swirl of cinnamon and apple flavor in every single bite. Trust me, once you do, these cupcakes will quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
Print
Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cinnamon Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cinnamon Frosting combine the comforting flavors of classic apple pie in a delightful cupcake form. Soft, moist cupcakes are filled with a warm, spiced apple pie filling and topped with fluffy cinnamon frosting, making them perfect for dessert or special occasions.
Ingredients
Cupcakes
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk
Apple Pie Filling
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, for cornstarch slurry)
Cinnamon Frosting
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or milk)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cupcakes: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Fill Cupcake Liners: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Cupcakes: Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Apple Pie Filling: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon.
- Cook Filling: Cook, stirring frequently, until the apples soften and the sugar creates a syrup (about 8-10 minutes).
- Thicken Filling (Optional): If the filling is too runny, mix the cornstarch with the water to form a slurry, and add it to the apple mixture. Stir until thickened.
- Cool Filling: Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely.
- Core Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are cool, use a small knife or cupcake corer to remove the center of each cupcake (about halfway down).
- Fill Cupcakes: Fill each cupcake with a spoonful of the cooled apple pie filling.
- Make Cinnamon Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Flavor Frosting: Add the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon, then gradually add the heavy cream. Beat on high until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
- Pipe Frosting: Transfer the frosting to a piping bag with a star tip and pipe it onto each cupcake.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle the frosted cupcakes with a light dusting of cinnamon sugar or additional cinnamon. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Use a cupcake corer or small knife carefully to avoid breaking cupcakes when removing centers.
- The apple pie filling can be made a day ahead and refrigerated for better flavor melding.
- For a lighter frosting, substitute milk for heavy cream.
- Ensure cupcakes are completely cool before filling and frosting to prevent melting.
- Optional: sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar on top for extra crunch and flavor.
