Name: Apple Spice Cupcakes with Cinnamon Buttercream Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups (188 g) flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon ground cloves or allspice (optional); ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, room temperature; ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar; ¼ cup (50 g) packed light brown sugar; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 1 ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1/3 cup (80 ml) milk; 1 large apple, peeled and grated or finely diced (about 1 cup or 125 g); 1 cup (226 g or 2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature; 2 ½ cups (300 g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1-2 tablespoons milk

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 28 reviews

If you have a soft spot for autumn flavors wrapped up in a perfectly moist bite, then you are absolutely going to adore this Apple Spice Cupcakes with Cinnamon Buttercream Frosting Recipe. These cupcakes bring together warm spices, tender apples, and a luscious cinnamon-infused buttercream frosting that creates a delightful harmony of flavor and texture in every single cupcake. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family gathering or just craving a sweet treat that feels like a hug, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a four-step baking process on a white marbled surface. Step 1 features a glass bowl filled with a light brown flour mixture surrounded by smaller bowls holding diced yellow apples, sugar, and eggs. Step 2 shows a glass bowl with a creamy mix of butter and sugar, two eggs, and vanilla being mixed with an electric hand mixer; a glass cup of milk is nearby. Step 3 displays a glass bowl of thick light brown batter with diced yellow apples being folded in with a wooden spoon. Step 4 reveals a metal muffin tray filled with paper liners holding light brown muffin batter, ready for baking. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Apple Spice Cupcakes with Cinnamon Buttercream Frosting Recipe relies on simple, classic ingredients that come together in the most magical way. Each ingredient plays a key role, from the fragrant spices that give the cupcakes their signature warmth to the fresh apple that adds moisture and subtle sweetness.

Flour (1 ½ cups): The base of the cupcakes providing structure and a tender crumb.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the cupcakes rise and become light and fluffy.
Baking soda (½ teaspoon): Adds lift and works with the acidity of the apples for perfect texture.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances flavors and enhances the sweetness.
Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Delivers that classic warm spice note essential to the recipe.
Ground nutmeg (¼ teaspoon): Adds subtle depth and complexity to the spice blend.
Ground cloves or allspice (¼ teaspoon, optional): A hint of rich spice for extra dimension.
Unsalted butter (½ cup for batter + 1 cup for frosting): Provides richness and moisture for a tender cupcake and creamy frosting.
Granulated sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the cupcakes perfectly without overpowering.
Light brown sugar (¼ cup): Adds a lovely caramel undertone and keeps the cupcakes moist.
Large eggs (2): Bind the ingredients together and help with the cupcakes’ structure.
Pure vanilla extract (1 ½ teaspoons for batter + 2 teaspoons for frosting): Enhances the overall flavor, giving a smooth, sweet aroma.
Milk (⅓ cup for batter + 1-2 tablespoons for frosting): Adds moisture and helps create the perfect batter and frosting consistency.
Apple (1 large, peeled and grated or finely diced): The star of the show, contributing natural sweetness and a moist, tender crumb.
Confectioners’ sugar (2 ½ cups, sifted): Essential for the silky smooth cinnamon buttercream frosting.

How to Make Apple Spice Cupcakes with Cinnamon Buttercream Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Cupcake Tin

Start by preheating your oven to 350° F to ensure it is perfectly heated. Line a standard muffin tin with paper liners to make removing the cupcakes a breeze later on.

Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This ensures the spices and leavening agents are evenly mixed for that golden, flavorful crumb we’re aiming for.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, blend together the butter with both granulated and brown sugars on medium-high speed. Beat this mixture until it is smooth and creamy, about 2 minutes. This step is crucial because it helps aerate the batter for light cupcakes.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time to create a rich, cohesive batter. Follow with vanilla extract to infuse the cupcakes with that irresistible sweet aroma.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk

Add half of the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix just until combined, then add the milk for some moisture and mix again. Follow by folding in the rest of the flour mixture carefully so you don’t overmix and risk dense cupcakes.

Step 6: Fold in the Apples

Gently stir in the grated or finely diced apple by hand, ensuring the apple is evenly distributed. This adds a fresh, juicy bite and natural sweetness that perfectly complements the warm spices.

Step 7: Bake the Cupcakes

Spoon the batter into the paper-lined muffin tins, filling each about three-quarters full to allow room for rising. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 8: Cool Completely on a Wire Rack

Once baked, transfer the cupcakes to a wire rack. Let them cool completely before frosting so that the cinnamon buttercream maintains its perfect texture and won’t melt.

Step 9: Make the Cinnamon Buttercream Frosting

In a clean bowl, whip the butter on high speed until fluffy, about 5 minutes. Gradually add the sifted confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Adjust the consistency with 1-2 tablespoons of milk as needed, and beat until you achieve that dreamy smooth frosting ready to be spread or piped.

Step 10: Frost and Decorate

Spread a generous swirl of cinnamon buttercream frosting over each cooled cupcake. Feel free to get creative with piping for a professional touch or keep it cozy and rustic with a simple, inviting spread.

How to Serve Apple Spice Cupcakes with Cinnamon Buttercream Frosting Recipe

A cupcake with two layers is shown. The bottom layer is a light brown, soft cake with a crumbled texture, partially wrapped in a peeled-off beige paper liner. The top layer is a swirl of light beige cream frosting, speckled with tiny brown dots, and garnished with a fresh, thin slice of red apple placed vertically in the frosting. In the blurred background, several similar cupcakes with the same frosting and apple decoration sit on a raised wooden board on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate these cupcakes, consider garnishing with a light sprinkle of cinnamon or a delicate dusting of powdered sugar. A small slice of fresh apple or a tiny cinnamon stick placed on top offers a charming seasonal touch that truly delights.

Side Dishes

Serve these cupcakes alongside a hot cup of spiced chai tea, coffee, or apple cider to complement their warm flavors. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side also works beautifully to round out the experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or gatherings, arrange the cupcakes on a tiered stand adorned with autumn leaves or mini pumpkins for a cozy fall display. Wrapping each cupcake in decorative cupcake wrappers or tying a ribbon around the cupcake liner can add that extra bit of homemade charm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Apple Spice Cupcakes with Cinnamon Buttercream Frosting Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If your home is warm, it’s best to refrigerate the cupcakes to keep the frosting fresh and prevent melting.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container. Once you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature, then frost with cinnamon buttercream fresh for the best texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat cupcakes briefly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds if you want a warm, freshly baked feel, but be cautious not to melt the frosting. Alternatively, enjoy them chilled straight from the fridge for a refreshing take.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?

Absolutely! Crisp apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work great. Each variety brings its own sweetness and texture, so feel free to experiment to find your perfect match.

Is it possible to make these cupcakes dairy-free?

Yes! You can substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil and use a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

How do I prevent the cupcakes from becoming too dense?

Be careful not to overmix the batter once you combine the dry and wet ingredients. Gently folding in the flour and fruit helps maintain a light, tender crumb.

Can I make the cinnamon buttercream frosting ahead of time?

Definitely. You can make the frosting up to 2 days in advance and keep it refrigerated. Before using, bring it to room temperature and whip it again briefly to restore fluffiness.

What if I don’t have all the spices listed?

While the full spice blend creates the best flavor, cinnamon and nutmeg are the essentials. If you don’t have cloves or allspice, just omit them and your cupcakes will still taste wonderful.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about the way this Apple Spice Cupcakes with Cinnamon Buttercream Frosting Recipe captures the essence of fall in a bite-sized treat. The combination of spices, fresh apple, and creamy cinnamon frosting creates a comforting experience you’ll want to share again and again. So grab your mixing bowls and apples, and dive into making these delightful cupcakes that are destined to become a beloved go-to recipe for seasons and celebrations ahead.