Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re craving the cozy flavors of fall wrapped up in an irresistible treat, then you’ve got to try this Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Imagine moist, tender cupcakes infused with warm cinnamon and nutmeg, packed with a soft, spiced apple filling, all topped with a luscious, tangy cream cheese frosting that perfectly balances sweet and creaminess. These cupcakes capture the spirit of classic apple pie but in a delightful handheld form that’s perfect for sharing, gifting, or simply indulging at home. From the first bite, you’ll be glad you made these!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe lies in its simple but intentional ingredients. Each one adds magic to the final result, whether that’s the tart brightness of Granny Smith apples, the comforting warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, or the silky texture that milk and butter provide. Let’s take a look at the essentials:

• 3 tablespoons granulated sugar: Adds a light sweetness to the apple filling that perfectly contrasts its tartness.
• 3 medium Granny Smith apples: Their firm flesh and tart flavor provide the ideal base for the apple filling.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Prevents apples from browning and adds a refreshing zing.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Gives the filling its signature warm apple pie spice.
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Used in the filling to add richness and a smooth mouthfeel.
• 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the filling to the perfect consistency.
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Forms the cupcake base, providing structure and lightness.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Gives the cupcakes that gentle rise and fluffy texture.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the cupcake batter with cozy warmth.
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle, aromatic depth that complements the cinnamon.
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the flavors in the cupcake batter.
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, room temperature: Ensures a tender crumb and richness in the cupcakes.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes just right without overpowering.
• 2 large eggs, room temperature: Bind the ingredients and contribute to a moist texture.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with its sweet, floral notes.
• ½ cup whole milk: Adds moisture and helps create a tender crumb.
• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened: Key ingredient in the frosting, giving it tangy smoothness.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese frosting perfectly.
• 2 cups heavy cream: Whipped to fluffy peaks to lighten the frosting.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds extra flavor to the cream cheese frosting.
• 1 pinch kosher salt: Balances the sweetness in the frosting for a well-rounded taste.

How to Make Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Start by mixing diced Granny Smith apples with sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl. This combination ensures the filling has that perfect sweet-tart balance with a touch of spice. Next, melt butter in a pan over medium heat, then add the apple mixture. Cook while stirring frequently for about 8 to 10 minutes until the apples become tender and the liquid bubbles invitingly. Stir in the flour to thicken the mixture and then remove from heat to cool completely. This filling will bring that recognizable apple pie heart to each cupcake.

Step 2: Make the Cupcake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients — flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt — to ensure even flavor distribution. In a separate stand mixer bowl, cream room-temperature butter with granulated sugar until fluffy and light. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract for a fragrant note. Alternate adding the dry mixture and whole milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined to keep the cupcakes tender.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Divide the batter evenly among the lined muffin cups. Spoon about two teaspoons of the cooled apple filling on top of each cupcake batter portion — this guarantees a juicy surprise inside every cupcake. Bake for 24 to 26 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the edge comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool for a bit in the tin before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Create the Cream Cheese Frosting

Place your mixing bowl and whisk attachment in the freezer for 15 minutes to chill; this helps the cream whip to ideal volume. Then, remove the bowl and beat softened cream cheese with sugar until smooth. Pour in heavy cream and continue mixing on medium speed until soft peaks form. Scrape down the bowl to ensure all cream cheese is mixed in, then beat again until stiff peaks hold their shape. Finally, add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt and mix briefly to combine. Transfer to a piping bag and swirl a generous amount atop each cooled cupcake for that perfect finish.

How to Serve Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

A lovely way to elevate these cupcakes is with simple garnishes. A sprinkle of ground cinnamon or a small cinnamon stick can add visual flair and invite the aroma of fall spices. Thin apple slices lightly caramelized with butter and sugar provide a crunchy contrast and a beautiful, edible decoration. If you’re feeling extra festive, a dusting of powdered sugar right before serving adds a snowy, inviting look that will charm your guests.

Side Dishes

While these Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe treats can stand alone, pairing them with warm spiced beverages like chai tea or mulled cider can turn any afternoon into a cozy celebration. For a brunch spread, fresh fruit or a light salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the sweetness of the cupcakes. A scoop of vanilla ice cream also hugs these cupcakes perfectly if you want to offer them as a dessert option.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation can turn simple baking into an experience. Try serving these cupcakes on a rustic wooden tray adorned with fresh autumn leaves or a linen runner to set the seasonal theme. Use colorful cupcake liners in shades of red, orange, or gold to hint at the rich apple flavors inside. For gatherings, displaying the cupcakes on tiered cake stands creates an inviting dessert table centerpiece that guests will gravitate towards.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These cupcakes stay moist and flavorful for several days when stored properly. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, as the cream cheese frosting requires chilling. They’ll maintain their fresh taste and texture for up to three days, making them perfect for enjoying over a few sittings or planning ahead for celebrations.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead or keep some on hand for later indulgence, frozen Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe work wonderfully. Freeze the baked but unfrosted cupcakes wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving for a fresh-baked experience.

Reheating

Because the frosting is best served chilled, we recommend reheating only the cupcake portion. Warm the unfrosted cupcake in a microwave for 10-15 seconds to evoke that fresh-from-the-oven softness, then add freshly piped or previously chilled frosting for optimal texture contrast. This method keeps each bite balanced between warm cake and cool frosting.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for the filling?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide the perfect tartness and firmness, other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji can be used for a sweeter or milder filling. Just be mindful that sweeter apples may reduce the need for additional sugar in the filling.

How do you stabilize the whipped cream in this recipe?

The cream cheese in the frosting acts as a stabilizer, giving the whipped cream structure and preventing it from deflating quickly. Chilling the bowl and whisk beforehand also helps create a fluffier, more stable whipped cream that holds its shape beautifully on the cupcakes.

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, you can make this recipe gluten-free. Keep in mind texture differences may occur, so choosing a blend with xanthan gum often yields the best results.

Is it possible to make these cupcakes dairy-free?

To make dairy-free Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, swap butter and cream with plant-based alternatives like vegan butter and coconut cream. Use a dairy-free cream cheese substitute for the frosting. The flavors might vary slightly but remain delicious.

How long do these cupcakes last at room temperature?

Because of the cream cheese whipped frosting, it’s best to refrigerate these cupcakes. At room temperature, they should be consumed within two hours to ensure food safety. Chilling helps preserve the frosting’s texture and keeps the cupcakes fresh.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly heartwarming about the way this Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe combines the best elements of classic apple pie into a single bite of indulgence. It’s a recipe that brings smiles and cozy memories with every forkful. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a casual treat, these cupcakes are sure to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire. So grab those crisp apples and get ready to make your kitchen smell like fall—your new favorite cupcake awaits!

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