Caramel Apple Cupcakes

Caramel Apple Cupcakes

If you’re looking for the perfect dessert that captures the cozy flavors of fall, these Caramel Apple Cupcakes are a must-try! Moist apple spice cupcakes topped with a luscious caramel buttercream and drizzled with extra caramel sauce make for an irresistible treat. With the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg paired with the sweetness of caramel, these cupcakes are a delightful combination of seasonal flavors. They’re great for any fall gathering or as a special weekend treat. Plus, they’re easy to make and look stunning with a simple apple slice garnish!

Ingredients:

For the Apple Spice Cupcakes:

• 1½ cups (195g) all-purpose flour
• 1½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ⅛ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ cup (56g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• ¼ cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• ¼ cup (52g) sugar
• ½ cup (112g) packed brown sugar
• ¾ tsp vanilla extract
• 3 tbsp (43g) sour cream
• 2 large eggs
• ¾ cup (180ml) milk
• 1 cup finely chopped apple

For the Caramel Buttercream:

• 1¼ cups (280g) unsalted butter, room temperature
• 5 cups (575g) powdered sugar
• 4–6 tbsp caramel sauce
• Pinch of ground cinnamon
• Additional caramel sauce, for drizzling
• Apple slices, for decorating

Directions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cupcakes

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set this aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter, vegetable oil, sugar, and brown sugar for 3-4 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy. Be sure to cream it well for the best texture.
4. Mix in the vanilla extract and sour cream until fully combined.
5. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
6. Add half of the dry ingredients to the batter and mix until just combined.
7. Gradually add the milk and mix until well incorporated (don’t worry if the batter looks slightly curdled—it’s normal).
8. Mix in the remaining dry ingredients just until smooth. Be careful not to overmix.
9. Gently fold in the finely chopped apples.
10. Fill the cupcake liners about ¾ full and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Buttercream

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the room temperature butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Add half of the powdered sugar and mix until fully combined.
3. Add 4 tablespoons of caramel sauce and a pinch of cinnamon, mixing until smooth.
4. Add the remaining powdered sugar and continue mixing until the buttercream is creamy and well combined. Add more caramel sauce as needed to reach your desired consistency.

Step 3: Assemble the Cupcakes

1. Once the cupcakes have completely cooled, pipe the caramel buttercream on top of each cupcake using your favorite piping tip.
2. Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the frosting for extra flavor and visual appeal.
3. Garnish each cupcake with a thin apple slice for a decorative and tasty touch.

Storage:

These cupcakes are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 15-18 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 12 cupcakes
• Calories: 350 kcal per cupcake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Warm Fall Flavors: The combination of apples, cinnamon, and caramel captures all the cozy tastes of fall in one delicious bite.
• Moist & Tender: The sour cream in the batter keeps the cupcakes incredibly moist, while the finely chopped apples add a burst of natural sweetness.
• Easy to Make: Despite their impressive appearance, these cupcakes are simple to whip up and decorate, making them a great option for any baker.

Tips for Success:

• Finely Chop the Apples: Make sure to finely chop the apples so they distribute evenly throughout the cupcakes without sinking to the bottom.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring your butter, eggs, and sour cream to room temperature before starting to ensure a smooth and even batter.
• Customizable: If you want to switch things up, try using different types of apples or adding a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top of the buttercream for extra flavor.

These Caramel Apple Cupcakes are sure to be a hit wherever you serve them, from fall festivals to family gatherings. With their soft, spiced apple base and rich caramel buttercream, they’re the ultimate autumn treat. Enjoy!

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