Apple Crumble Cupcakes

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that feels like a warm hug, these Apple Crumble Cupcakes are just the ticket! Imagine soft, brown sugar and cinnamon cupcakes filled with tender spiced apples, all topped with fluffy cinnamon buttercream and a crunchy crumble. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, treating your friends, or simply indulging yourself after a long day, this recipe is sure to impress.

These cupcakes are not only delicious but also easy to make. They bring the comforting flavors of autumn into every bite, making them perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love them!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will adore these sweet treats; they’re great for kids and adults alike!
• Make Ahead: Prepare the apple filling and crumble ahead of time for quick assembly on busy days.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of apple and cinnamon is always a crowd-pleaser, bringing warmth and nostalgia.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 delicious servings, there’s plenty to go around at gatherings or parties.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! You’ll find everything you need to create these mouthwatering Apple Crumble Cupcakes right here.

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:

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your own twists:

• Change the Fruit: Substitute apples with pears or berries for a different flavor profile.
• Add Nuts: Sprinkle in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
• Spice it Up: Experiment with adding nutmeg or ginger to the apple filling for an added zing.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Swap out regular flour for gluten-free alternatives to cater to dietary needs.

How to Make Apple Crumble Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Start by peeling and coring the apples before chopping them into small chunks. This step is essential as it helps ensure even cooking. In a pan over low heat, combine the apples with light brown sugar, cornflour, cinnamon, and mixed spice. Stir everything well to coat the apples in sweetness and spice before covering with a lid. Let them cook gently for about 10-15 minutes until they are tender.

Step 2: Create the Crumble

While your apples cool down, let’s make that crunchy topping! Preheat your oven to 180C Fan/200C/375F/Gas Mark 5 and prepare a baking tray lined with baking paper. In a bowl, mix plain flour, light brown soft sugar, and cinnamon together. Rub unsalted butter into this mixture using your fingers until it resembles breadcrumbs – this creates that delightful texture we love in crumbles!

Step 3: Bake the Crumble

Spread the crumble mixture evenly on your prepared baking tray and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake until golden brown—about 10-15 minutes should do it! Remember that it will firm up more as it cools.

Step 4: Make the Cupcake Batter

Now let’s whip up those luscious cupcakes! Preheat your oven again—this time to 160C Fan/180C/350F/Gas Mark 4—and line your cupcake tin with cases. In a mixing bowl (preferably using an electric mixer), cream together softened butter and light brown sugar until smooth. This step is vital as it incorporates air into your batter, leading to fluffy cupcakes!

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Next, add in your large eggs one at a time while whisking well after each addition. Then gently fold in self-raising flour along with cinnamon and mixed spice until just combined—be careful not to overmix!

Step 6: Bake Your Cupcakes

Divide this delicious batter among your cupcake cases—fill them about two-thirds full—and bake for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown. A skewer inserted in the center should come out clean. Once baked, allow them to cool completely before moving on.

Step 7: Assemble Your Treats!

Using a cupcake corer or knife, carefully make holes in each cupcake’s center—this is where all that lovely apple filling will go! Fill each hole generously with your cooled apple mixture.

Step 8: Whip Up Buttercream

For that dreamy frosting, mix softened butter alone for a few moments before adding icing sugar and cinnamon. Add milk gradually until you reach that perfect smooth consistency; remember—it should be easy enough to pipe but still thick enough to hold its shape!

Step 9: Decorate Your Cupcakes

Pipe or spread that luscious buttercream onto each cupcake using your favorite nozzle. Top off each cupcake with more apple filling followed by sprinkling crumble on top—be mindful if serving later as it may soften from contact with buttercream.

And there you have it! Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days—but trust me; they won’t last long once you share them around! Enjoy every delightful bite of these Apple Crumble Cupcakes!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crumble Cupcakes

Baking can be a delightful adventure, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve! Here are some pro tips to ensure your Apple Crumble Cupcakes turn out perfectly every time.

• Choose the Right Apples: Opting for medium-sized, regular eating apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp will give you that perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. This makes the apple filling more flavorful and complements the sweetness of the cupcakes beautifully.

• Don’t Rush the Cooling: Allowing the apple filling and cupcakes to cool completely before assembly is crucial. This prevents the buttercream from melting and helps maintain the structure of your cupcakes, ensuring they look as good as they taste.

• Experiment with Spices: While this recipe uses cinnamon and mixed spice, feel free to experiment by adding nutmeg or ginger for an extra flavor kick. Spices enhance the overall taste, making each bite even more delightful.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter that rises evenly while baking, giving you moist and fluffy cupcakes.

• Store Properly: To keep your cupcakes fresh longer, store them in an airtight container in a cool place. This helps maintain their moisture and flavor, ensuring they stay delicious for up to three days!

How to Serve Apple Crumble Cupcakes

Serving your Apple Crumble Cupcakes can be just as fun as making them! Here are some ideas to present them beautifully at any gathering or just for a cozy night in.

Garnishes

• Cinnamon Dusting: A light dusting of ground cinnamon on top of the buttercream adds a lovely aroma and enhances the spiced flavor.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkling some finely chopped pecans or walnuts over the crumble topping adds a nice crunch and extra depth of flavor.
• Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce can elevate these cupcakes to a gourmet level, adding richness that pairs perfectly with apple filling.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream served alongside warm cupcakes creates a delightful contrast in temperature while complementing their flavors.
• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option that’s equally indulgent, whipped coconut cream offers a light and fluffy topping that balances out the richness of the buttercream.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits like berries and citrus not only adds color but also brings a refreshing element that cuts through the sweetness.
• Tea or Coffee: Serving these cupcakes with a warm cup of tea or coffee creates a cozy experience perfect for afternoon gatherings or dessert after dinner.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll certainly impress your guests while enjoying every bite yourself! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Crumble Cupcakes are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance and enjoy them throughout the week, making your dessert game a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cupcakes in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Keep them in a cool place away from direct sunlight.
• Consume leftovers within 3 days for the best taste.

Freezing

• If you’d like to save some for later, freeze the un-topped cupcakes.
• Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Reheating

• To reheat, place cupcakes in a preheated oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 5-10 minutes.
• Avoid microwaving as it can make them dry; reheating in the oven keeps them moist.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that may help you while making your Apple Crumble Cupcakes!

Can I use different types of apples for the filling?

Absolutely! While regular eating apples work best, feel free to experiment with tart varieties like Granny Smith or sweeter ones like Fuji for a unique twist.

How do I ensure my Apple Crumble Cupcakes stay moist?

Make sure not to overbake your cupcakes. Checking them with a skewer at the 20-minute mark will help you get perfect results every time!

What makes these Apple Crumble Cupcakes special?

These cupcakes combine warm spices and sweet apples with creamy buttercream and crunchy crumble, creating a delightful dessert experience that everyone will love!

Can I add nuts to the crumble topping?

Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add an extra crunch and flavor to your crumble topping. Just mix them into the dry ingredients before adding butter.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to make these Apple Crumble Cupcakes as I was! They truly bring together comfort and joy in every bite. Whether you’re enjoying them at home or sharing with friends, these cupcakes are sure to impress. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations with loved ones—because good food is meant to be shared!