Apple Cinnamon Cupcake Indulgence

Name: Apple Cinnamon Cupcake Indulgence
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 cup grated apple (about 2 medium apples); ½ cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tbsp milk; ½ tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tbsp butter, melted

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love these Apple Cinnamon Cupcakes! The moment I took my first bite, I was transported to a cozy autumn afternoon, with the warm aroma of spices dancing in the air. This recipe is incredibly simple yet delivers a deliciously moist cupcake topped with a sweet cinnamon glaze. It’s the perfect treat for gatherings or a cozy night in, and I guarantee these will quickly become a favorite in your household. Trust me; once you try them, you'll want to make them again and again!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:02:27.458Z

When I was experimenting with cupcake recipes, I wanted to combine two of my favorite flavors: apples and cinnamon. After a few tries, I perfected this Apple Cinnamon Cupcake recipe. The trick is to use freshly grated apples to keep everything moist and flavorful! Each bite delivers a soft texture along with a delightful crunch from the cinnamon sugar topping.

These cupcakes are not just visually appealing; they also evoke warm, comforting feelings. I love sharing them at family gatherings, and they always disappear quickly. If you sprinkle some chopped nuts on top, it adds even more texture and flavor. Enjoy baking!

Why You Will Love These Cupcakes
Delightful combination of sweet apples and warm cinnamon
Moist texture that leaves you wanting more
Perfect for any occasion, from casual to festive

The Role of Apples in the Recipe

The incorporation of grated apples is crucial for achieving that sought-after moisture in these cupcakes. Choose apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a balanced sweetness and a slight tartness that complements the cinnamon. Grating the apples rather than chopping them results in a finer texture, allowing them to integrate seamlessly into the batter, giving every bite a burst of apple flavor.

To get the best flavor and moisture from your apples, grate them right before adding them to the batter, as this prevents oxidation and browning. You can also squeeze out excess moisture if your apples are particularly juicy; this ensures that your cupcakes won’t be soggy. Just use a clean dish towel to gently press the grated apples.

Perfecting the Cinnamon Glaze

Timing is essential when preparing your cinnamon glaze. Ensure the cupcakes have cooled completely before applying the glaze; otherwise, it may melt and run off the sides. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the cupcake but still flow smoothly when drizzled. If it’s too runny, add a bit more powdered sugar; if it’s too thick, incorporate a drop more milk.

For a variation on the glaze, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg to deepen the flavor. You can also sprinkle some chopped nuts over the glaze for added texture and crunch. The glaze not only enhances the visual appeal but adds a sweet touch that perfectly complements the spiced cupcake.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create delicious Apple Cinnamon Cupcakes:

For the Cupcakes

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 cup grated apple (about 2 medium apples)
½ cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp milk
½ tsp ground cinnamon
1 tbsp butter, melted

With these ingredients ready, you’re all set to make your Apple Cinnamon Cupcakes!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to bake the cupcakes:

Prepare the Oven and Cupcake Liners

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

Cream Butter and Eggs

In another large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Fold in the grated apples and vanilla until just combined.

Bake the Cupcakes

Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Prepare the Cinnamon Glaze

While the cupcakes are cooling, mix powdered sugar, milk, cinnamon, and melted butter in a small bowl until smooth.

Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, drizzle the cinnamon glaze over the tops and let it set before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful Apple Cinnamon Cupcakes!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter before baking. You can also experiment with different types of apples for a variety of tastes.

Storage Tips

These Apple Cinnamon Cupcakes can be stored at room temperature for up to two days. Simply place them in an airtight container to maintain their moisture. If you've made them ahead of time for an event, consider refrigerating them if you're not serving them within that timeframe. They can last up to a week in the fridge; just make sure to let them come back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

For longer storage, these cupcakes freeze well. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw them at room temperature for a few hours, and then drizzle with freshly made cinnamon glaze just before serving.

Scaling the Recipe

If you want to make a larger batch for a gathering, this recipe scales beautifully. Simply double or triple the ingredients while maintaining the same mixing and baking times. Use multiple cupcake pans and rotate them halfway through baking to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on them, as larger amounts may require an additional couple of minutes in the oven.

Conversely, if you want just a few cupcakes, you can easily halve the recipe. Be mindful of your mixing bowl size; a smaller bowl will work well, and you can bake the batter in a standard muffin tin, adjusting the bake time as needed since smaller batches often cook more quickly.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of fruit in this recipe?

Absolutely! Pears or peaches can be excellent substitutes for apples.

→ How should I store leftover cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and frost them on the day of serving.

→ What can I use instead of butter?

You can substitute with applesauce or another vegetable oil to keep it dairy-free if desired.