Light, Moist & Full of Fresh Apple Flavor
These Simply Apple Cupcakes are soft, lightly spiced, and bursting with fresh apple flavor. With a tender crumb, hint of cinnamon, and optional cinnamon-sugar topping—they’re the perfect cozy treat for fall baking or anytime you want a comforting dessert.
A no-fuss cupcake that feels like home in every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- 🍎 Fresh Apple Goodness: Real chopped apples add moisture and flavor—not just sweetness.
- 🌿 Cinnamon Perfection: A touch of spice enhances the natural fruit flavor without overpowering it.
- ⏱️ Quick & Easy: Ready from start to finish in under 40 minutes—great for beginners!
- 🥣 No Fancy Frosting Needed: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar keeps it simple but deeply satisfying.
- ❄️ Make-Ahead Magic: Tastes even better the next day—perfect for meal prep or gifting.
Ingredients (Makes 12 cupcakes):
For the Dry Ingredients:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour (180g)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
For the Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter , softened (room temperature)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream (full-fat or low-fat – adds moisture)
For the Apples:
- 1 medium apple , peeled and finely chopped (about 1 cup)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (to keep apples fresh and prevent browning)
To Finish (Optional):
- Cinnamon-sugar topping (mix 2 tbsp sugar + ½ tsp cinnamon)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat Oven & Prep Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) .
Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners or grease well if using silicone molds.
Set aside while mixing ingredients.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Cinnamon
- Salt
This ensures everything is evenly distributed before adding wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat:
- Softened butter
- Granulated sugar
until light and fluffy —about 2–3 minutes with an electric mixer.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Stir in Yogurt or Sour Cream
Mix in yogurt or sour cream until smooth and slightly thickened.
Toss the chopped apples with lemon juice to preserve color and flavor.
Fold the apples into the batter gently by hand.
Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients Gently
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients.
Gently fold or stir until just combined—do not overmix.
The batter should be thick and scoopable.
Step 6: Fill the Liners
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about ⅔ full .
This allows room for rising without overflowing.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes , or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.
Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes , then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Sprinkle & Serve Warm
While still slightly warm, sprinkle tops with cinnamon-sugar (if using).
Serve warm or at room temperature with a mug of coffee or tea.
Each bite brings the comforting taste of baked apples and cinnamon—without any frosting needed.
Tips for Success:
- 🧊 Use Cold Hands: Helps shape the batter and reduce sticking.
- 🍎 Apple Choice Matters: Use tart-sweet varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Braeburn .
- 🧁 Add Frosting (Optional): Try a dollop of whipped cream cheese or vanilla frosting for extra indulgence.
- 🌱 Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut yogurt and vegan butter for a plant-based version.
- ❄️ Freezer-Friendly: Cool completely and store in freezer bags for up to 2 months—reheat in toaster oven for best results.
Serving Suggestions:
- Perfect for school lunches, afternoon tea, or post-dinner treats.
- Ideal as part of a fall dessert spread or holiday snack tray.
- Great with a drizzle of honey or a side of Greek yogurt.
Nutritional Information (per cupcake, makes 12 – approximate):
(Without frosting – based on regular ingredients)
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Protein: ~3g
- Carbohydrates: ~20g
- Fat: ~10g
- Fiber: ~0.5g
- Sugar: ~9g
These Simply Apple Cupcakes prove that sometimes less really is more. With their soft, moist texture and real apple chunks folded into every bite—they’re a delicious way to enjoy fall’s favorite fruit in a handheld, bakery-style treat.
So go ahead and make these today… because once you try one—you’ll be making them again and again!
