Apple Cinnamon Cupcakes Recipe

Apple Cinnamon Cupcakes are the perfect blend of warm spices, soft cake, and sweet apple goodness. These cupcakes are moist, fluffy, and packed with real apple flavor, making them an ideal treat for fall or any time you crave a cozy dessert. 

The combination of cinnamon and apples creates a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen while baking. Whether you top them with a creamy frosting or enjoy them plain, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Ingredients (Makes about 12 cupcakes)

For the Cupcakes

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 cup finely diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)

For the Frosting (Optional)

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20–22 minutes
• Total Time: 35–40 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
• In a large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour mixture.
• Gently fold in the diced apples.

Step 2: Bake the Cupcakes

• Divide the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
• Bake for 20–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Frosting (Optional)

• In a mixing bowl, beat butter until creamy.
• Add powdered sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, and beat until smooth.
• Add heavy cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a fluffy consistency.
• Frost the cooled cupcakes using a piping bag or a spatula.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

• Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel for extra flavor.
• Serve and enjoy your homemade Apple Cinnamon Cupcakes.

Tips for Perfect Apple Cinnamon Cupcakes

• Choose firm apples like Granny Smith for a slight tartness or Honeycrisp for extra sweetness.
• Overmixing can make the cupcakes dense instead of light and fluffy.
• Let butter, eggs, and buttermilk come to room temperature before mixing for a smoother batter.
• Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, they’re done!
• Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic: Enjoy as is, or with a dusting of powdered sugar.
• Caramel Drizzle: Add a touch of caramel sauce for a bakery-style treat.
• Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for extra texture.

These Apple Cinnamon Cupcakes are the perfect blend of fall flavors, but they’re delicious all year round.