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In recent years, cupcakes have transcended from mere dessert options to culinary art forms, enchanting taste buds with their delightful flavors, whimsical designs, and endless variations. Among the myriad of cupcake flavors available, the Apple Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes stand out as a seasonal favorite, especially during the fall months. These cupcakes beautifully merge the beloved flavors of a cinnamon roll with the wholesome sweetness of fresh apples, creating a treat that is both comforting and indulgent.

Apple Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes

Indulge in the delightful flavors of fall with these easy-to-make Apple Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes. Combining soft, fluffy cake with chunks of fresh apples and a swirl of cinnamon filling, topped off with a rich cream cheese frosting, these treats are perfect for any occasion. Ideal for cozy family gatherings or festive celebrations, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Bring warmth into your kitchen and impress your guests with this charming dessert!

Ingredients
  

For the Cupcakes:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

¾ cup unsalted butter, melted

1 cup buttermilk

3 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 medium apple, peeled and diced (preferably Granny Smith)

For the Cinnamon Filling:

½ cup brown sugar, packed

2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

4 cups powdered sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 tablespoon milk (adjust for desired consistency)

For Garnish (optional):

Fresh apple slices

Additional cinnamon

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until well combined.

      Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is well blended.

        Make the Batter: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Fold in the diced apple.

          Prepare the Cinnamon Filling: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and softened butter until it forms a smooth paste.

            Fill the Cupcake Liners: Fill each cupcake liner about halfway with the batter. Then, drop about a teaspoon of the cinnamon filling in the center of each one, and cover with more batter until the liners are about ¾ full.

              Bake: Place the cupcake tray in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the tray for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: While the cupcakes are cooling, beat together the cream cheese and softened butter in a mixing bowl until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and mix until combined. Stir in the vanilla extract, adding milk a little at a time until the desired frosting consistency is reached.

                  Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, use a piping bag or a spatula to generously frost each cupcake with the cream cheese frosting.

                    Garnish: Optionally, top each cupcake with fresh apple slices and a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor and decoration.

                      Enjoy your delightful Apple Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes with warm flavors and a twist on a classic treat!

                        Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 12 cupcakes