Apple Crumble Cupcakes

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of autumn with the joy of baking, then you’ve landed in the right place! These Apple Crumble Cupcakes are truly special. They feature moist brown sugar and cinnamon cupcakes filled with a spiced apple filling, topped with creamy cinnamon buttercream and a crunchy crumble. Perfect for family gatherings or just as a sweet pick-me-up during a busy week, these cupcakes will warm your heart and home.

What I love most about this recipe is how it brings everyone together. Whether you’re hosting friends for afternoon tea or simply want to indulge yourself, these cupcakes are sure to impress everyone. Trust me; they won’t last long!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can whip these up even on your busiest days.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the delicious combination of apple and cinnamon.
• Perfect for sharing: These cupcakes are great for parties, potlucks, or cozy gatherings—you’ll be the star baker!
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare the apple filling and crumble ahead of time, making baking day even smoother.
• Irresistibly tasty: The blend of sweet apples, fluffy cupcakes, and creamy frosting is hard to resist!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in these Apple Crumble Cupcakes. You probably have many of these in your kitchen already!

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

One of the best things about baking is how flexible recipes can be! Feel free to get creative with these variations for your Apple Crumble Cupcakes:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch in both the filling and topping.
• Mix in dried fruit: Dried cranberries or raisins would add a lovely sweetness that pairs nicely with apples.
• Change up the spices: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile.
• Use different fruits: Try replacing apples with pears or peaches—both are delicious options!

How to Make Apple Crumble Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

To begin creating those lovely cupcakes, start by peeling and coring your apples. Chop them into small chunks so they cook evenly. In a pan over low heat, combine those apple pieces with light brown sugar, cornflour, cinnamon, and mixed spice. Stir everything together gently. This step is crucial because cooking the apples helps release their natural sweetness while allowing all those spices to infuse beautifully. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the apples are soft. Once done, take them off heat and let them cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Crumble Topping

Next up is preparing that crunchy crumble topping! Preheat your oven to 180°C Fan/200°C/375°F/Gas Mark 5. Line a baking tray with baking paper so nothing sticks. In a bowl, mix together plain flour, light brown soft sugar, and cinnamon. Then add in your unsalted butter and rub it into the dry ingredients using your fingers until it resembles breadcrumbs—this creates that delightful texture we love! Spread this mixture onto your lined tray and bake for about 10-15 minutes until golden brown.

Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes

Now it’s cupcake time! Preheat your oven to 160°C Fan/180°C/350°F/Gas Mark 4 and line a cupcake tin with cases. In a mixing bowl (an electric mixer works wonders here), cream together softened butter and light brown soft sugar until smooth. Add in your eggs one at a time while whisking well between each addition—this helps create a fluffy sponge! Gradually fold in self-raising flour along with cinnamon and mixed spice until just combined.

Step 4: Fill & Frost Your Cupcakes

Divide this delicious cupcake batter among your lined cases (you should have enough for 12). Bake them for about 20-25 minutes until they’re golden brown—insert a skewer in the center; if it comes out clean, they’re ready! Once baked, allow them to cool completely before using a cupcake corer or knife to create holes in each one.

Fill those holes generously with your spiced apple filling; this is where all that flavor lies! Next up is buttercream: beat softened butter on its own first before adding icing sugar, cinnamon, and milk until smooth—a little extra milk can help if it’s too stiff.

Finally, pipe or spread this creamy frosting onto each cupcake before adding any remaining apple filling on top. Don’t forget to sprinkle that crunchy crumble over everything—just wait if you’re not serving immediately to keep it crisp!

And there you have it—your very own batch of Apple Crumble Cupcakes! Enjoy every bite and share them with loved ones—they’re bound to become a favorite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crumble Cupcakes

Creating perfect Apple Crumble Cupcakes is a delightful journey, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate your baking game!

• Use fresh apples: Fresh apples provide the best flavor and texture for the filling. Opt for varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

• Let the apple filling cool completely: Cooling the filling prevents it from melting the cupcake structure when added. This ensures that your cupcakes hold their shape and maintain a delightful bite.

• Check for doneness: Each oven is unique! Use a toothpick to check if your cupcakes are done; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached, but not wet batter.

• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon and mixed spice are fantastic, feel free to add nutmeg or cardamom for an extra layer of warmth and depth in flavor.

• Store properly: To keep your cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help maintain their moisture and flavor for up to three days.

How to Serve Apple Crumble Cupcakes

Presenting your Apple Crumble Cupcakes beautifully can make all the difference! Here are some ideas to make them shine on any dessert table.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overwhelming the flavors of the cupcakes.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling some caramel sauce on top adds richness and enhances the apple flavor, making each bite even more indulgent.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans over the top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the crumble topping.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm cupcakes, creating a beautiful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Whipped cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream can be served alongside or on top of the cupcakes for an airy complement that balances their richness.
• Fruit salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and a refreshing element to your dessert spread, providing a lovely contrast to the spiced cupcakes.
• Tea or coffee: Offering a cup of warm tea or freshly brewed coffee makes for a cozy pairing, enhancing the overall experience with comforting notes that echo those in the cupcakes.

Now you’re all set to bake these delightful treats! Enjoy every moment as you share them with family and friends. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Crumble Cupcakes are perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time and store them, enjoying their delightful flavors whenever you crave something sweet.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Consume leftovers within 3 days to ensure freshness.
• If the crumble topping gets soft, consider adding it fresh just before serving.

Freezing

• To freeze, place cooled cupcakes in a single layer on a baking tray and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.

Reheating

• Allow cupcakes to come to room temperature after freezing.
• For a warm treat, microwave for about 10-15 seconds or enjoy them at room temperature.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you may have about making Apple Crumble Cupcakes!

Can I use other fruits in Apple Crumble Cupcakes?

Absolutely! You can substitute apples with other fruits like pears or berries for a delicious twist. Just adjust the sugar based on the fruit’s sweetness.

How do I ensure my Apple Crumble Cupcakes stay moist?

Make sure to not overbake the cupcakes; check them at the lower end of the baking time. Also, allowing them to cool completely before adding frosting helps maintain moisture.

What makes these Apple Crumble Cupcakes special?

These cupcakes stand out with their spiced apple filling, creamy cinnamon buttercream, and crunchy crumble topping that brings a delightful texture contrast in every bite!

Can I prepare the apple filling ahead of time?

Yes! The apple filling can be made a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to fill your cupcakes.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Apple Crumble Cupcakes as much as I do! They combine comforting flavors with a fun twist that’s sure to impress friends and family. Enjoy each bite filled with spiced goodness and don’t hesitate to share your baking adventures with me. Happy baking!