Name: Apple Spice Cupcakes with Salted Caramel Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 23 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 and 1/2 cups (188g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled; 2/3 cup (135g) packed light or dark brown sugar; 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 1/3 cup (80ml) milk, at room temperature; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1 large apple, peeled and finely chopped (about 1 and 1/2 cups, or 180g); 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, cut into 4 equal pieces; 1 cup (200g) packed light or dark brown sugar (can use 1/2 cup light and 1/2 cup dark); 5 Tablespoons heavy cream, divided; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 cups (240g) confectioners’ sugar; Optional garnish: salted caramel sauce and apple slices

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 24 reviews

There is something utterly magical about the combination of tender apple spice cupcakes topped with a luscious salted caramel frosting that just melts in your mouth. If you’re searching for a dessert that embodies cozy warmth and a touch of elegance, the Apple Spice Cupcakes with Salted Caramel Frosting Recipe is your go-to treat. These cupcakes are delightfully moist and packed with spices and fresh apple, while the salted caramel frosting provides that perfect balance of sweet and salty that elevates each bite to pure bliss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two views of apple muffins in a black muffin tray with white paper liners. The left side displays the raw muffin batter filled with small chunks of apple, light brown in color with a soft and creamy texture, each liner filled about three-quarters full. The right side shows the baked muffins, golden brown with a slightly rough texture, small apple pieces visible on the surface, and some muffins stacked on top of each other in the tray. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Apple Spice Cupcakes with Salted Caramel Frosting Recipe lies in its simple, thoughtful ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in bringing out the rich flavors, tender crumb, and that irresistible frosting texture you’ll fall in love with.

All-purpose flour (1 and 1/2 cups): Provides structure and tenderness for the cupcakes.
Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps cupcakes rise and achieve a light texture.
Baking powder (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle lift so the cupcakes aren’t dense.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the warm spice and apple flavors.
Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): The star spice that gives warmth and aroma.
Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Adds depth and a subtle nutty sweetness.
Unsalted butter (1/2 cup melted): For rich moistness and flavor.
Light or dark brown sugar (2/3 cup): Deepens flavor with molasses notes and keeps it tender.
Granulated sugar (1/3 cup): Balances sweetness and helps with cupcake texture.
Large eggs (2, room temperature): Bind ingredients and add richness.
Milk (1/3 cup, room temperature): Keeps the batter moist and tender.
Pure vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances all flavors with sweet warmth.
Large apple (1, peeled and finely chopped): Adds fresh fruitiness and texture.
Unsalted butter for frosting (1/2 cup): The creamy base of the salted caramel frosting.
Light or dark brown sugar for frosting (1 cup): Gives the caramel its rich color and flavor.
Heavy cream (5 tablespoons, divided): Creates the luscious, silky frosting texture.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and highlights caramel notes.
Confectioners’ sugar (2 cups): Adds sweetness and thickens the frosting perfectly.
Optional garnishes: Salted caramel sauce and fresh apple slices for stunning presentation.

How to Make Apple Spice Cupcakes with Salted Caramel Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by getting your oven warmed up to 350°F (177°C) and lining a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners. Having everything ready beforehand sets the stage for smooth baking and a stress-free process.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. These dry ingredients form the backbone of flavor and texture in your cupcakes, so give them a good mix to evenly distribute the spices.

Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until just blended. Then whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract, followed by the milk. This mixture brings richness, sweetness, and moisture that will make the cupcakes so tender.

Step 4: Combine and Fold in Apples

Slowly fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined—don’t overmix, a few lumps are totally fine! Finally, gently fold in the finely chopped apple pieces, which add bursts of fresh flavor and delightful texture in every bite.

Step 5: Bake the Cupcakes

Fill each lined cupcake cup about three-quarters full with batter. Bake for 21 to 23 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through so they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Set them aside to cool completely before frosting.

Step 6: Make the Salted Caramel Frosting

Start by melting the butter and brown sugar together in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until fully combined. Add 3 tablespoons of heavy cream and the salt, then attach a candy thermometer to ensure your caramel reaches 230°F (110°C). This precise temperature guarantees a perfect consistency. Remove from heat and let cool briefly.

Step 7: Finish the Frosting

Transfer the caramel to a mixing bowl and allow it to thicken for 15 to 20 minutes. Then sift in confectioners’ sugar and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of heavy cream. Beat the mixture on medium-low, then high speed for a minute until creamy and smooth. Let the frosting rest to thicken further before piping onto your cupcakes.

Step 8: Frost and Decorate

Pipe the salted caramel frosting generously on each cooled cupcake using your favorite piping tip. For an extra flair, drizzle some salted caramel sauce and add thin apple slices on top to impress your guests with both looks and flavor.

How to Serve Apple Spice Cupcakes with Salted Caramel Frosting Recipe

The image shows five apple cupcakes on a white marbled surface, each in a white cupcake liner. Each cupcake has a light brown cake base with visible bits of apple, topped with a thick swirl of creamy beige frosting. Drizzled caramel sauce covers the frosting in a loose pattern, adding a shiny, darker brown contrast. One cupcake is cut in half, showing the moist and textured interior, while another has a small green apple slice placed on top of the frosting. A small dollop of frosting sits next to a knife on the surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a drizzle of extra salted caramel sauce brings an irresistible shine and boosts the caramel flavor. Thinly sliced fresh apples not only make for a pretty presentation but add a lovely crispness against the soft cupcake and frosting.

Side Dishes

These cupcakes shine as a dessert after a cozy meal. Pair them with a steaming cup of chai tea or a creamy latte to complement the warm spices and rich caramel notes. A scoop of vanilla ice cream also provides a refreshing contrast for a special treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For festive occasions, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon sugar or crushed pecans over the frosting. You might also create a rustic fall display by serving the cupcakes on a wooden board alongside cinnamon sticks and autumn leaves. They’re as delightful to look at as they are to eat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Apple Spice Cupcakes with Salted Caramel Frosting at room temperature in an airtight container for up to one day to keep the texture fresh. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to five days, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving to bring back their softness.

Freezing

You can freeze the cupcakes either frosted or unfrosted for up to three months. Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then allow them to warm up briefly at room temperature for best flavor and texture.

Reheating

Warm your cupcakes gently in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds if desired, just enough to take the chill off without melting the frosting. This brings back a freshly baked feel and enhances the comfort factor of every bite.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! Granny Smith apples work great for a tart contrast, but sweeter apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp offer a softer, juicier bite. Just be sure to peel and finely chop so the texture blends well into the cupcakes.

Is there a way to make the frosting without a candy thermometer?

While the candy thermometer takes the guesswork out of the caramel temperature, you can carefully watch for a deep amber color and bubbling to judge doneness. However, for consistent results, investing in a candy thermometer is highly recommended for this recipe.

Can I substitute buttermilk for the milk in the recipe?

Yes, buttermilk works beautifully by adding a subtle tang and extra tender crumb. Just note it may slightly change the texture but will complement the apple and spice flavors wonderfully.

How do I prevent the frosting from separating?

Beat the frosting just until ingredients come together and then increase speed briefly. Avoid overmixing, which can cause the fats and liquids to split. If separation happens, gently fold or add a little more confectioners’ sugar to bring it back.

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results. Keep in mind that texture and rise might vary slightly, but the flavors will still shine.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Spice Cupcakes with Salted Caramel Frosting Recipe truly capture a harmonious blend of autumn warmth and decadent sweetness that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether for a cozy afternoon treat or a special celebration, these cupcakes are guaranteed to delight every taste bud. Give this recipe a try and watch everyone fall in love just like I did!