Apple Butter Cupcakes
These Apple Butter Cupcakes are a perfect autumn delight, offering a rich, spiced flavor with a soft crumb, topped with a creamy apple butter frosting.
Equipment
- 1 muffin tin lined with paper liners
- 1 electric mixer
- 1 Mixing Bowl large
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 3/4 cup brown sugar packed
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1 cup apple butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
Apple Butter Frosting
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup apple butter
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
- In another bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time.
- Add the apple butter and vanilla to the wet mixture, mixing well. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, mixing until just combined.
- 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 in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Serving
- For the frosting, beat the butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, followed by apple butter and vanilla, beating until smooth.
- Once cupcakes are completely cooled, frost generously with the apple butter frosting. Optionally, sprinkle with cinnamon or garnish with apple slices.
Storage
- Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness. Allow to reach room temperature before serving.
Notes
Pro Tips: Use high-quality apple butter for the best flavor and texture.
Ingredient Substitutions: For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based butter and milk alternative.
How to Serve: Pair with hot apple cider or a spiced latte for a cozy treat.
Storage & Freshness: Keep cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Bake cupcakes a day in advance and frost just before serving for optimal freshness.
Ingredient Substitutions: For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based butter and milk alternative.
How to Serve: Pair with hot apple cider or a spiced latte for a cozy treat.
Storage & Freshness: Keep cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Make-Ahead Tips: Bake cupcakes a day in advance and frost just before serving for optimal freshness.