Apple Crumble Cupcakes

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of autumn with the joy of baking, you’ve come to the right place! These Apple Crumble Cupcakes are a fantastic blend of brown sugar and cinnamon cupcakes filled with spiced apples, topped with creamy cinnamon buttercream and a crunchy crumble. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, bringing smiles to everyone’s faces. Trust me, once you take a bite of these delightful cupcakes, you’ll want to make them again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, these cupcakes are perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet apple filling and dreamy buttercream—making them a hit at any gathering!
• Versatile Treat: Whether it’s a cozy evening at home or a festive occasion, these cupcakes fit right in, bringing warmth to any event.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the apple filling and crumble ahead of time, making assembly a breeze when you’re ready to bake!
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of spices and sweetness creates an irresistible flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Apple Crumble Cupcakes use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious dessert!

For the Apple Filling

• 2 Apples (medium sized, regular eating apples)
• 30 g Light brown soft sugar
• 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp Mixed spice
• 1 tsp Cornflour (cornstarch)
• 10 g Butter (unsalted)

For the Crumble Topping

• 8 g Light brown soft sugar
• 17 g Plain flour
• 1/8 tsp Cinnamon

For the Cupcakes

• 175 g Butter or baking spread (softened, unsalted)
• 175 g Light brown soft sugar
• 3 Eggs (large)
• 175 g Self raising flour
• 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp Mixed spice

For the Buttercream Frosting

• 175 g Butter (softened, unsalted)
• 350 g Icing sugar
• 1 1/2 tsp Cinnamon
• 2-3 tbsp Milk

Variations

This recipe is quite flexible! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients based on your preference or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can be added to the apple filling or crumble for extra crunch.
• Use Different Fruits: Swap out apples for pears or berries for a refreshing twist on this classic recipe.
• Try Different Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger in addition to or instead of cinnamon for varied flavor profiles.
• Make Mini Versions: Use a mini cupcake tin for bite-sized treats that are perfect for parties.

How to Make Apple Crumble Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

To start off, peel and core your apples before chopping them into small chunks. This is important because it allows the apples to cook evenly and become tender. In a pan over low heat, combine your apple chunks with light brown sugar, cornflour, cinnamon, and mixed spice. Stir everything together well! Once combined, cover it with a lid and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes until the apples are soft. Once done, set it aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Crumble Topping

Preheat your oven to 180C Fan/200C/375F/Gas Mark 5 while you prepare your crumble topping. Line a baking tray with baking paper so your crumble doesn’t stick. In a bowl, mix plain flour, light brown soft sugar, and cinnamon together until evenly combined. Adding butter is next; rub it into the dry ingredients using your fingers until it resembles breadcrumbs. This step is crucial as it creates that lovely crunchy texture we all adore in crumbles! Spread out your mixture on the lined tray and bake for about 10-15 minutes until golden. Once baked, allow it to cool—it will firm up nicely!

Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes

Next up is our fluffy cupcake batter! Preheat your oven again but now to 160C Fan/180C/350F/Gas Mark 4 and line your cupcake tin with cases. In a mixing bowl (an electric mixer works wonders here), beat together softened butter and light brown sugar until smooth—this step helps incorporate air into the batter which makes our cupcakes rise beautifully! Add in eggs one by one while mixing well after each addition. Gently fold in self-raising flour along with cinnamon and mixed spice until just combined; be careful not to overmix as this can affect texture.

Step 4: Assemble Your Cupcakes

Now you’re ready to fill those cupcake cases! Divide your batter evenly among them—about two-thirds full should do it. Bake them in the oven for around 20-25 minutes until golden brown; inserting a skewer should come out clean when they’re done! Let them cool completely before moving on.

Step 5: Fill and Frost Your Cupcakes

Once cooled, use either a cupcake corer or knife to create a hole in each cupcake’s center—this is where that luscious apple filling goes! Spoon in your cooled apple mixture generously; don’t be shy here! Next comes our dreamy buttercream frosting: beat softened butter alone first until creamy before adding icing sugar, cinnamon, and milk gradually until smooth. Pipe or spread this delightful frosting onto each cupcake.

Step 6: Final Touches

Finish off by adding any leftover apple filling on top of the frosting followed by sprinkling over your crunchy crumble topping. If you aren’t serving them right away—hold off on adding crumble until closer to serving time as it can soften when sitting on top of buttercream!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in a cool place; they’ll be best enjoyed within three days. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crumble Cupcakes

Making these delightful Apple Crumble Cupcakes is a breeze, and with a few tips, you can elevate them to perfection!

• Use fresh apples – Fresh apples not only enhance the flavor but also add a delightful texture to your filling. Opt for crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.

• Don’t skip cooling the apple filling – Allowing the apple filling to cool completely prevents the cupcakes from becoming soggy. This ensures that your cupcakes maintain their structure and remain deliciously moist.

• Check for doneness – Baking times can vary based on your oven. To ensure perfect cupcakes, use the skewer method: insert a skewer into the center of a cupcake; if it comes out clean, they’re ready!

• Experiment with spices – While cinnamon and mixed spice are traditional, feel free to get creative! Adding nutmeg or even a hint of ginger can give an exciting twist to your cupcakes.

• Store properly – These cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container. Keep them in a cool place and consume within three days to retain their optimal taste and texture.

How to Serve Apple Crumble Cupcakes

These Apple Crumble Cupcakes are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some creative ways to present them at your next gathering.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting – A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness, making your cupcakes look bakery-fresh.

• Cinnamon stick accents – Placing a small cinnamon stick alongside each cupcake on the serving platter enhances their visual appeal and ties into the warm flavors of the recipe.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that complements the warm spices and sweet apples perfectly. The creaminess of vanilla ice cream balances the flavors beautifully.

• Caramel Sauce – Drizzling warm caramel sauce over your cupcakes adds an indulgent touch. It enhances the sweetness while providing a lovely contrast in texture.

• Fresh Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a light balance to the richness of the cupcakes. Consider including berries for a tart contrast.

• Whipped Coconut Cream – For a dairy-free option, serve whipped coconut cream alongside your cupcakes. Its airy texture and subtle sweetness create a wonderful harmony with the spiced flavors.

Enjoy making these delightful treats, and remember: baking is all about sharing joy and creating memories! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Crumble Cupcakes are perfect for meal prep, making them an excellent treat to whip up for busy weeks or special occasions. With their delightful flavors and textures, you can enjoy them fresh or save some for later!

Storing Leftovers

• Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them. They can last up to a week in the fridge.
• Avoid adding the crumble topping until you’re ready to serve to maintain its crunchiness.

Freezing

• To freeze, place cupcakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• These cupcakes can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

• If you prefer warm cupcakes, gently reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can warm them in an oven preheated to 150C (300F) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about these delicious Apple Crumble Cupcakes.

Can I use different types of apples for Apple Crumble Cupcakes?

Yes! While regular eating apples work well, you can experiment with different varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for varied sweetness and tartness in your filling.

How do I make the apple filling for Apple Crumble Cupcakes?

Simply peel and core your apples, chop them into small chunks, and cook them with light brown sugar, cornflour, cinnamon, and mixed spice until soft. Let it cool before filling your cupcakes!

Can I substitute the butter in the cupcake recipe?

Absolutely! You can use a dairy-free spread if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. The texture may vary slightly but should still yield delicious results.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Crumble Cupcakes are truly a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon and spiced apples with a sweet crumble topping. I hope you enjoy making these as much as I do! They’re perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family gathering or just because you’re craving something sweet. Happy baking!