Apple Crumble Cupcakes

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the cozy flavors of autumn with the fun of cupcakes, then you’re in for a real treat with these Apple Crumble Cupcakes! Each bite is a warm hug of brown sugar and cinnamon, layered with a spiced apple filling that feels like a slice of homemade pie. These cupcakes are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply want to brighten up a busy weeknight with something sweet.

What makes this recipe extra special is the crunchy brown sugar crumble on top, which adds just the right amount of texture and sweetness. You’ll find yourself reaching for seconds (or thirds)! Plus, they’re quite easy to whip up, making them an excellent baking project for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously comforting: The combination of spiced apples and rich buttercream will warm your heart and taste buds.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these sweet treats, making them ideal for gatherings or after-school snacks.
• Perfectly portable: These cupcakes are easy to take along to picnics or potlucks without worry about mess!
• Make-ahead magic: Bake them in advance and store them in an airtight container for up to three days—if they last that long!
• Customizable flavors: Feel free to play around with the spices or add nuts for an exciting twist!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Apple Crumble Cupcakes use simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry! Gather the following items before getting started:

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

One of the best parts about baking is how flexible recipes can be! Here are some fun ways to customize your Apple Crumble Cupcakes:

• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can give your crumble topping an extra crunch.
• Use different fruits: Try substituting pears or even berries for a fruity twist!
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to deepen those autumn flavors.
• Make it gluten-free: Swap out regular flour for a gluten-free blend—just make sure to check your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How to Make Apple Crumble Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

Start by peeling and coring your apples. Chop them into small chunks and place them in a pan over low heat. Add the light brown sugar, cornflour, cinnamon, and mixed spice. Stir everything together gently. Cooking these apples allows their natural sweetness to come out while infusing them with those delicious spices. Cover with a lid and let everything cook down for about 10-15 minutes until soft. Once done, remove from heat and let cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Crumble Topping

Preheat your oven to 180C Fan/200C/375F/Gas Mark 5. Line a baking tray with baking paper. In a bowl, combine plain flour, light brown sugar, and cinnamon. Next, add in the butter and rub it into the dry ingredients using your fingers until it resembles breadcrumbs—this step creates that lovely crunchy texture we all love! Spread this mixture onto your prepared baking tray and bake for 10-15 minutes until golden brown.

Step 3: Prepare the Cupcake Batter

Now it’s time for those scrumptious cupcakes! Preheat your oven again; this time to 160C Fan/180C/350F/Gas Mark 4. Line a cupcake tin with cupcake cases. In a mixing bowl (an electric mixer works best here), cream together softened butter and light brown sugar until smooth. Add in your eggs one at a time while whisking well after each addition. Then gently fold in self-raising flour along with cinnamon and mixed spice—this is what gives our cupcakes that amazing flavor!

Step 4: Bake Your Cupcakes

Divide your batter evenly into the cupcake cases—about two-thirds full should do! Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown. Check if they’re done by inserting a skewer into the center; if it comes out clean, they’re ready! Let them cool completely on a wire rack once baked.

Step 5: Fill and Frost

Use a cupcake corer or knife to make holes in each cooled cupcake. Fill these holes generously with the apple filling you prepared earlier—it’s going to be so good! Now let’s make that dreamy buttercream: Mix softened butter on its own first until creamy before adding icing sugar, cinnamon, and milk. Beat until smooth; if it’s too stiff, just add a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Decorate Your Cupcakes

Pipe or spread that luscious buttercream onto each cupcake using your favorite piping bag tip—or just use a spoon if you prefer! Top each cupcake with remaining apple filling followed by sprinkling on that crunchy crumble topping just before serving so it stays crisp.

And there you have it—beautiful Apple Crumble Cupcakes ready to be enjoyed! They not only look amazing but taste heavenly too. Just remember to store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature—and enjoy within three days if they last that long!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Crumble Cupcakes

Baking these delightful Apple Crumble Cupcakes is a rewarding experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right apples: Opt for medium-sized eating apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold their shape well during cooking and provide a lovely balance of sweetness and tartness that complements the cupcakes beautifully.

• Ensure proper cooling: It’s crucial to let your apple filling cool completely before adding it to the cupcakes. This prevents the buttercream from melting and keeps your cupcakes looking neat and beautiful.

• Don’t skip the crumble: The crumble topping adds texture and a delicious crunch. Make sure to bake it until golden so it contrasts nicely with the soft cupcake and creamy frosting.

• Use room temperature ingredients: For the best mixing results, ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and results in lighter, fluffier cupcakes.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices in both the apple filling and buttercream to suit your taste. Adding nutmeg or ginger can give an extra depth of flavor that elevates these cupcakes even more!

How to Serve Apple Crumble Cupcakes

Presenting your Apple Crumble Cupcakes beautifully can make them even more enjoyable! Here are some delightful ways to serve them:

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top can add a touch of elegance without overpowering the flavors.
• Cinnamon stick: Placing a small cinnamon stick next to each cupcake makes for a charming presentation that hints at the delicious spices within.
• Caramel drizzle: A drizzle of vegan caramel over the buttercream creates a visually stunning effect and adds an extra layer of sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream alongside these cupcakes provides a creamy contrast that enhances their flavor.
• Fruit salad: A fresh fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the richness of the cupcakes.
• Coffee or tea: Serving these cupcakes with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea creates a comforting dessert experience perfect for afternoon gatherings.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layered yogurt with granola and fruits offers a refreshing side that complements the sweetness of the cupcakes while adding some healthy elements.

Enjoy serving up these scrumptious Apple Crumble Cupcakes! They’re bound to be a hit at any gathering, bringing comfort and joy with every bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Apple Crumble Cupcakes are not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them ahead of time, store them, and enjoy them at your convenience. Here are some tips to keep your cupcakes fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
• Store in a cool place or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• For longer storage, freeze the un-frosted cupcakes.
• Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just thaw at room temperature before decorating.

Reheating

• If you’ve frozen your cupcakes, allow them to come to room temperature first.
• For a fresh-baked taste, warm them in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for about 5-10 minutes.
• Avoid microwaving as this may make the cupcakes soggy.

FAQs

Have questions about making these tasty treats? Here are some common ones!

Can I make Apple Crumble Cupcakes gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute regular self-raising flour with a gluten-free blend. Just ensure that all other ingredients used are also gluten-free.

How should I store leftover Apple Crumble Cupcakes?

Store your leftover Apple Crumble Cupcakes in an airtight container in a cool place. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days!

Can I add nuts to my Apple Crumble Cupcakes?

Yes! Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can be added to the crumble topping for an extra crunch and flavor boost.

What kind of apples work best for Apple Crumble Cupcakes?

Regular eating apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully due to their balance of sweetness and tartness, which enhances the overall flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Apple Crumble Cupcakes as much as I do! With their warm cinnamon flavors and luscious apple filling topped with a crunchy crumble, they truly are a comforting dessert that brings joy with every bite. Don’t hesitate to share your baking experience or any tweaks you made—I’d love to hear how they turned out for you! Happy baking!