Description
These Moist Apple Cupcakes with Heavenly Cinnamon Buttercream are a deliciously tender treat perfect for any occasion. Made with fresh grated apple and warm cinnamon-spiced buttercream, these cupcakes offer a delightful balance of fruity freshness and creamy sweetness, baked to perfection for a moist texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup grated apple (about 1 medium apple)
Cinnamon Buttercream Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to prevent sticking and promote even baking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Then, add the eggs one at a time, incorporating each fully before adding the next, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry: Alternately add the dry ingredient mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently after each addition to keep the batter light.
- Add grated apple: Fold the grated apple into the batter carefully to distribute evenly without overmixing.
- Fill and bake: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cupcakes cool completely.
- Prepare buttercream: Beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cinnamon, continuing to beat to achieve a fluffy texture.
- Finish frosting: Add the milk and vanilla extract, mixing until the buttercream is creamy and spreadable.
- Frost cupcakes: Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, frost them generously with the cinnamon buttercream using a spatula or piping bag as desired.
Notes
- Ensure apples are well-grated and not chunky for even distribution.
- Use room temperature butter and eggs to help create a smoother batter.
- For a stronger cinnamon flavor, sprinkle a small pinch of cinnamon on top of the frosted cupcakes.
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Allow cupcakes to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting the buttercream.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: apple cupcakes, cinnamon buttercream, moist cupcakes, baked desserts, fall desserts, easy cupcake recipe
