These Easy Apple Pie Cupcakes are a sweet treat that captures the deliciousness of classic apple pie in a fun cupcake form! With juicy apples and warm spices, your taste buds are in for a treat.
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself sneaking an extra cupcake (or two)! 😄 The cinnamon sugar topping is just the cherry on top—sweet, crunchy, and oh so good. They’re perfect for sharing or enjoying all on your own!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour: All-purpose flour works best here. If you’re gluten-free, try a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. I’ve had great success with this option!
Apples: Tart apples like Granny Smith add great flavor! You can substitute with Honeycrisp or Fuji if you prefer a sweeter taste.
Sour Cream/Yogurt: Sour cream keeps the cupcakes moist. You can switch to Greek yogurt for a healthier option or even applesauce for a lighter version.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to; however, if you’re out, you can use margarine or coconut oil in equal amounts.
How Can I Make Sure My Cupcakes Are Moist and Fluffy?
To achieve moist and fluffy cupcakes, follow these essential tips:
- Be sure your butter is softened but not melted. This will help it cream properly with the sugar.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mixing just until combined keeps the cupcakes light and airy.
- Using room temperature eggs helps create a better texture. Before using, let them sit out for 30 minutes!
- Keep an eye on the baking time; remove them as soon as a toothpick comes out clean for best results.
Easy Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cinnamon Sugar Topping
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1 cup peeled, cored, and finely chopped apples (about 1 medium apple, preferably a tart apple like Granny Smith)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing before topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 18-22 minutes of baking time. So, in just around 40 minutes, you’ll be ready to enjoy these delightful apple pie cupcakes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners. This makes it easy to remove the cupcakes after baking!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This ensures that everything is evenly distributed, giving you consistent flavor and texture.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar together until it becomes light and fluffy—this should take about 3 minutes.
4. Add Wet Ingredients:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well blended before adding the next. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and mix in the sour cream until just combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Gradually add the dry mixture into your wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Remember, don’t overmix; you want your cupcakes to stay light and fluffy!
6. Fold in the Apples:
Gently fold in the finely chopped apples, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter without overworking it.
7. Fill the Cupcake Liners:
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full to allow room for rising.
8. Bake:
Put the tin in the oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. To know they’re ready, insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake—it should come out clean!
9. Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
While the cupcakes are still warm, you can brush the tops with melted butter (if desired) and then sprinkle them generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture. This gives a sweet, crunchy topping!
10. Cool and Enjoy:
Allow your cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy these delicious apple pie cupcakes, bursting with flavor!
Happy baking! 🍏🧁
FAQ for Easy Apple Pie Cupcakes
Can I Substitute the Apples with Another Fruit?
Yes! While the recipe is designed around apples, you can try using finely chopped pears or peaches for a different flavor. Just ensure the fruit is firm to avoid adding too much moisture to the batter.
How Can I Make These Cupcakes Vegan?
For a vegan version, use unsweetened applesauce instead of eggs (1/4 cup per egg), substitute a plant-based butter for the butter, and use a dairy-free yogurt or coconut cream in place of sour cream. Everything else stays the same!
Can I Freeze These Cupcakes?
Absolutely! Once cooled, wrap each cupcake in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Cupcakes?
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’re keeping them longer, refrigerate to maintain freshness, but they taste best when enjoyed fresh!
