Caramel Apple Cupcakes: The Ultimate Dessert Recipe

Name: Caramel Apple Cupcakes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1.25 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cups granulated sugar; 1.5 tsp baking powder; 0.5 tsp salt; 1.5 tsp cinnamon; 0.5 cups milk, room temperature; 0.25 cups vegetable oil; 2 tbsp sour cream, room temperature; 1 each egg, room temperature; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1 cups unsalted butter, room temperature; 2.5 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 0.25 tsp salt; 0.25 cups salted caramel sauce; 2.5 cups apples, peeled and diced; 2 tbsp granulated sugar; 2 tbsp water; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp water; 0.25 cups salted caramel sauce

Introduction to Caramel Apple Cupcakes

Caramel Apple Cupcakes are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the sweetness of caramel with the tartness of apples, all nestled in a moist cupcake. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want to indulge in something sweet, these cupcakes will surely impress your family and friends. With their soft texture and rich flavors, they are the ultimate comfort food that brings a smile to everyone’s face.

A Personal Story Behind My Caramel Apple Cupcakes Journey

Growing up, my grandmother used to bake the most amazing apple desserts every fall. The smell of cinnamon and caramel filled her kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. One of my fondest memories is when she introduced me to her famous apple cupcakes topped with rich caramel frosting. Inspired by those sweet moments, I decided to create my own version of her recipe, blending her love for apples with my passion for baking. These Caramel Apple Cupcakes are a tribute to her legacy and a reminder of the joy that comes with sharing homemade treats.

What Makes This Caramel Apple Cupcakes Recipe Special?

This recipe stands out because of its unique combination of flavors and textures. The moist apple-infused cupcake base is filled with a warm cinnamon apple filling that adds a delightful surprise. Topped with a creamy salted caramel buttercream, each bite is an explosion of sweet and savory goodness. Plus, the use of fresh apples means you’re getting real fruit flavor, making these cupcakes not just delicious but also a little bit healthier. They are perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to cozy fall gatherings.

The Full Caramel Apple Cupcakes Recipe

Ingredients

1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar
1 ½ tsp baking powder

½ tsp salt
1 ½ tsp cinnamon
½ cup milk, room temperature

¼ cup vegetable oil
2 tbsp sour cream, room temperature
1 egg, room temperature

1 tbsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
2 ½ cups powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt
¼ cup salted caramel sauce

2 ½ cups apples, peeled and diced
2 tbsp granulated sugar
2 tbsp water

1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp cornstarch

1 tbsp water
¼ cup salted caramel sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with 12 liners. This is important, as it helps prevent the cupcakes from sticking.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This dry mixture is crucial for the structure of your cupcakes.
3. Add the milk, vegetable oil, sour cream, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix, as it can lead to dense cupcakes.
4. Using a large cookie scoop, fill the cupcake liners about ¾ full with the batter. This allows enough room for the cupcakes to rise.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cupcakes spring back when lightly touched. This indicates they are done.
6. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is key for frosting later.

Salted Caramel Buttercream Frosting:

1. 1. In a bowl, whip the room temperature unsalted butter for about 5 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a creamy frosting.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well between additions. This prevents a cloud of sugar from forming.
  3. Mix in the vanilla extract and salt on low speed, ensuring even distribution.
  4. Drizzle in the salted caramel sauce while mixing on low speed. This adds a rich flavor to your frosting.
  5. Increase the speed to medium and whip for an additional 3 minutes until the frosting is fluffy and smooth.

Cinnamon Apple Filling:

1. 1. In a saucepan, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, water, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Cook over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes until the apples are soft. This creates a delicious filling.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix the water and cornstarch to create a slurry. This will help thicken the filling.
  3. Remove the saucepan from heat, add the cornstarch slurry, and mix until thickened. Allow the filling to cool to room temperature.

Assembling the Cupcakes:

1. 1. Core the center of the cooled cupcakes using a cupcake corer or a knife.
  2. Fill a piping bag with the cinnamon apple filling and pipe it into the center of each cupcake.
  3. Use a piping bag fitted with a Wilton 1M tip to frost the cupcakes with the salted caramel buttercream.
  4. For an extra touch, drizzle additional salted caramel sauce over the frosted cupcakes and sprinkle cinnamon on top for added flavor and decoration.

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Caramel Apple Cupcakes

These cupcakes are perfect on their own but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. Consider adding chopped nuts for added crunch or using different spices like nutmeg for a unique flavor twist. They also make a delightful dessert for potlucks or gatherings, and you can even package them as gifts for friends and family!

Frequently Asked Questions About Caramel Apple Cupcakes

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can substitute apples with pears or peaches for a different flavor profile.

How do I store leftover cupcakes?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

Can I freeze these cupcakes?
Absolutely! Freeze the cupcakes without frosting for up to 3 months. Thaw and frost them when ready to serve.

Enjoy your delicious Caramel Apple Cupcakes!

Recipe Stats:

- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 380
- Servings: 12