Savor the nostalgic flavors of autumn with these delightful Caramel Apple cupcakes that beautifully blend the sweetness of caramel with the tartness of fresh apples. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, these cupcakes are a treat that captures the essence of the moment.
As a child, I spent countless fall afternoons in the kitchen with my grandmother, peeling and coring apples for her legendary pies. The aroma of cinnamon and sugar baking in the oven was something I looked forward to every year. Inspired by her love for combining fresh, seasonal fruits with decadent indulgences, I’ve created a recipe that carries on her tradition in cupcake form. Each bite takes me back to those cherished memories.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a true celebration of fall’s bounty, offering the perfect balance of flavor and texture. You’ll love how the moist apple-spiced cake pairs seamlessly with the gooey caramel glaze. It’s an accessible treat even for novice bakers, guaranteed to impress guests with its delightful appearance and heartwarming taste.
Ingredients Notes
For the best results, choose crisp and tart apples like Granny Smith. These hold up well when baked, providing a juicy contrast to the rich caramel. The Caramel Sauce can be store-bought for convenience, or made from scratch if you prefer. Remember to use unsalted butter to control the salt levels.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners. This will ensure the cupcakes bake evenly and are easy to remove.
Step 2
In a large bowl, mix the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This step helps distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout the batter.
Step 3
In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract for extra flavor depth.
Step 4
Add the dry mixture and finely chopped apples to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain a light texture.
Step 5
Fill cupcake liners two-thirds full and bake for 20-25 minutes. Let cool before drizzling with Caramel Sauce for a sticky, sweet finish.
Storage Options
To keep your cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator, but allow them to return to room temperature before serving. Freezing is also an option; just wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then freezer bags to maintain moisture.
Variations & Substitutions
For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative. You can also explore different flavor profiles by adding a dash of nutmeg or cloves to the batter. Feeling adventurous? Try topping the cupcakes with a sprinkle of sea salt to enhance the caramel’s sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
These cupcakes are perfect for fall celebrations, casual get-togethers, or as a sweet finale to a hearty meal. Pair them with a warm cup of spiced cider or a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream for an indulgent experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of apple? Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness, feel free to experiment with Fuji or Honeycrisp for a sweeter taste. Just make sure they are firm enough to hold up during baking.
How do I prevent my cupcakes from sinking in the middle? Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. Avoid opening the oven door frequently while baking, as it can cause a sudden drop in temperature.
Is there a way to make these gluten-free? Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Check that your other ingredients, such as baking powder, are also gluten-free to ensure a safe treat for those with dietary restrictions.
Caramel Apple Cupcakes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 0.75 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 2 cups grated apple peeled
- 1 cup caramel sauce store-bought or homemade
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with 12 liners.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk.
- Fold in the grated apple.
- Fill each cupcake liner halfway, then add a spoonful of caramel sauce in the center of each. Top with more batter until each liner is two-thirds full.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
