why make this recipe

Apple Crisp Cupcakes are a perfect treat anytime you want something sweet and cozy. They combine the classic flavors of apple crisp into a fun cupcake form, making them great for parties, cozy nights in, or as a delicious snack. With soft apples, a crunchy streusel topping, and creamy frosting, these cupcakes are sure to please anyone who takes a bite. Plus, they are simple to make, even if you’re new to baking!

how to make Apple Crisp Cupcakes

Ingredients :

1½ cups all-purpose flour
1½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs (room temperature)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup milk
1½ cups peeled and diced apples (about 2 medium apples, preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
½ cup all-purpose flour
⅓ cup packed brown sugar
¼ cup old-fashioned oats
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ cup cold unsalted butter (cubed)
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)
3 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of salt

Directions :

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a standard muffin tin with paper liners. This helps the cupcakes come out easily.
Prepare the streusel topping first by mixing flour, brown sugar, oats, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl. Cut in the cold butter until the mix looks like coarse crumbs. Put it in the fridge while you make the batter.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the eggs one by one, mixing well after each. Then add the vanilla extract.
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients and milk, starting and ending with the dry mix. Do this gently.
Fold in the diced apples until just combined. Don’t mix too much.
Divide the batter among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
Sprinkle the streusel topping on each cupcake, pressing it down a little.
Bake for 22-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then move them to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, then mix in vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
Once the cupcakes are cool, frost them with the cream cheese mixture.

how to serve Apple Crisp Cupcakes

Serve these cupcakes as a dessert or a special treat at any gathering. They look great on a platter and are fun to eat. You can even serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

how to store Apple Crisp Cupcakes

Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for about a week. Before serving, let the cupcakes sit at room temperature for a bit if they were chilled.

tips to make Apple Crisp Cupcakes

Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
Experiment with different types of apples to find your favorite flavor.
Don’t overmix the batter after adding the apples for tender cupcakes.
If you like nuts, you can add some chopped walnuts or pecans to the streusel topping.

variation

You can make these cupcakes gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. For a more caramel flavor, drizzle some caramel sauce on top before frosting.

FAQs

Q: Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute apples with other fruits like pears or berries, but adjust the spices accordingly.

Q: Can I freeze the cupcakes?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cupcakes without frosting. Just wrap them tightly and store them in the freezer for up to three months.

Q: Do I have to use cream cheese for frosting?
A: No, you can use a simple buttercream frosting if you prefer a lighter topping.