Caramel Maple Apple Cupcakes

Name: Caramel Maple Apple Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ cup buttermilk; 1 cup peeled, diced apples; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; ¼ cup heavy cream; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love baking, and these Caramel Maple Apple Cupcakes have become one of my go-to recipes for fall gatherings. The sweet and tart apple slices, combined with a luscious caramel frosting, create a delightful treat that always impresses my friends and family. Baking them fills my kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that’s hard to resist. They’re perfect for any occasion, especially when I want to showcase seasonal flavors in a fun way. You won’t believe how easy they are to make!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:41:28.067Z

Baking these Caramel Maple Apple Cupcakes was more than just a kitchen experiment for me; it was a joyful dive into the flavors of fall. I love using fresh apples because they lend natural sweetness and moisture to the cupcakes. Instead of traditional frosting, I decided to whip up a caramel icing, a combination that proved to be a crowd favorite. The first time I made them, they disappeared within minutes!

The secret to achieving the perfect cupcake texture is in the mixing method. I found that creaming the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, followed by the gradual addition of the dry ingredients, helped create that soft, tender crumb. And don’t skimp on topping them with chopped apples and a drizzle of extra caramel—it's the finishing touch that elevates these cupcakes!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
The warm spices perfectly complement the sweetness of the apples.
Each bite is topped with a silky caramel frosting that takes it over the top.
They're easy to make and sure to impress your guests!

Perfecting the Apple Flavor

Choosing the right apples is crucial for achieving that delicious balance of sweet and tart in your Caramel Maple Apple Cupcakes. For the best results, I recommend using a variety such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Their firm texture holds up beautifully in the cupcake, preventing them from turning mushy during baking. Dice the apples into small, even pieces, around half an inch, to ensure they distribute evenly throughout the batter.

Another tip is to toss the diced apples in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the batter. This helps to coat the apples and prevents them from sinking to the bottom of the cupcakes while baking. Additionally, using freshly diced apples rather than pre-packaged ones enhances the flavor and texture, offering a delightful crunch with every bite.

Mastering the Caramel Frosting

When making the caramel frosting, be careful not to overcook the mixture. Bringing the butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream to a boil requires attention; you want a rapid boil but don’t let it exceed two minutes. This timing allows the sugar to fully dissolve without crystallizing, which results in a smooth frosting. Watch for a change in color, as it deepens to a rich amber shade just before it's ready to incorporate the powdered sugar.

If your frosting turns out too runny, it might need more powdered sugar. Add it in small increments, mixing thoroughly until the desired consistency is achieved. Conversely, if it’s too thick, a tablespoon of warm milk can help loosen it up. Experimenting with the vanilla extract can also add a nice touch; consider using Bourbon or Maple vanilla for an extra layer of flavor.

Storing and Serving Tips

These Caramel Maple Apple Cupcakes can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’d like to prepare them in advance, bake the cupcakes a day ahead and frost them on the day of your gathering. This keeps the frosting fresher and the texture of the cupcakes intact. However, if you choose to frost them early, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts or extra apple pieces just before serving to maintain visual appeal.

For those looking to add a festive twist, serving these cupcakes with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or dollop of whipped cream complements the warm spices and caramel flavor beautifully. If you're hosting a larger event, doubling the recipe is a breeze; just ensure you have enough muffin trays on hand, as the batter can easily fill two dozen cupcakes. Be sure to monitor the baking time for the larger batch, as they may take a minute longer depending on your oven.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting this delightful recipe.

For the Cupcakes

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup buttermilk
1 cup peeled, diced apples

For the Caramel Frosting

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
¼ cup heavy cream
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Make sure to have everything measured out for a smoother baking experience.

Instructions

Before you start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners.

Prepare the Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, and mix until just combined. Finally, gently fold in the diced apples.

Bake the Cupcakes

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow cupcakes to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Caramel Frosting

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the mixture comes to a boil. Allow to boil for 2 minutes without stirring, then remove from heat. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until smooth. Let cool briefly before frosting the cooled cupcakes.

Frost and Serve

Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, generously frost each one with the caramel frosting. For an added touch, sprinkle with extra diced apples or drizzle more caramel on top before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Caramel Maple Apple Cupcakes with family and friends!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding chopped nuts to the batter or as a topping.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cupcakes dome too much while baking, it could be an indication of overmixing the batter. Mixing just until combined helps avoid excessive air incorporation, leading to flat tops. Another common issue is cupcakes that stick to the liners; ensure you’re using quality liners or consider using a non-stick spray for added release.

In case you find your cupcakes are dry, it may be due to overbaking. Ensure you're testing for doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. If you're experimenting with different oven types—like convection versus conventional—you might need to adjust the baking time slightly.

Flavor Variations

If you’re looking to shake things up, consider adding nuts like crushed walnuts or pecans to the batter for added crunch and flavor. Cinnamon chips or toffee bits can be incorporated as well, enhancing the overall taste profile and texture of the cupcakes. For a boozy twist, a splash of bourbon can be added to both the batter and the frosting, elevating the complexity of flavors.

Another fun variation is to switch out the caramel frosting for a cream cheese version. The tanginess of cream cheese offsets the sweetness wonderfully, creating a different but equally delicious cupcake experience. Feel free to top with a sprinkle of sea salt for that sweet and salty combination that balances beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the apples?

Yes, you can use pears or any other fruit that bakes well.

→ How do I store leftover cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can store the frosting in the refrigerator; just allow it to come to room temperature before using.

→ Are these cupcakes suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the baked cupcakes without frosting for up to 3 months. Thaw them before frosting.