Caramel Apple Cupcakes are a delightful combination of classic apple flavors and indulgent caramel sweetness. These moist and flavorful cupcakes are studded with chunks of fresh apples and topped with a creamy caramel buttercream, making them the perfect treat for fall gatherings, celebrations, or simply for satisfying your sweet tooth.

The combination of caramel and apples is a timeless and beloved flavor pairing that has been enjoyed in various desserts for generations. The tradition of caramel apples, where fresh apples are dipped in caramel and sometimes coated with nuts or other toppings, is a popular treat during the autumn season, especially around Halloween and Thanksgiving.

The concept of turning the beloved caramel apple treat into cupcakes likely evolved from a desire to enjoy the delightful flavors in a more convenient and bite-sized form. By infusing the cupcake batter with apples and adding a luscious caramel buttercream, bakers created a delightful treat that captures the essence of caramel apples in every bite.

INGREDIENTS

Cupcakes:

• 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/8 tsp nutmeg
• 3 egg whites
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 3/4 cup salted butter, slightly melted
• 1 large apple, chopped

Buttercream:

• 1 cup butter
• 1 cup shortening
• 8 cups powdered sugar
• 3/4 cup + 2 tbsp caramel sauce

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add the egg whites, vanilla extract, sour cream, milk, and slightly melted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix on medium speed until the batter is smooth, taking care not to overmix.
4. Stir in the chopped apples, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
5. Fill cupcake liners about 3/4 full with the batter.
6. Bake the cupcakes for 17-19 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 1-2 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to finish cooling completely.
8. To make the buttercream, combine the butter and shortening in a bowl and mix until smooth.
9. Gradually add 4 cups of powdered sugar to the butter mixture and mix until smooth.
10. Add the caramel sauce to the buttercream and mix until smooth.
11. Gradually add the remaining powdered sugar and continue mixing until the buttercream is smooth and fluffy.
12. Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, top them with the caramel buttercream and drizzle some extra caramel sauce for a delightful finishing touch.

Enjoy these delectable Caramel Apple Cupcakes, bursting with the flavors of fresh apples and creamy caramel, and savor the joy of autumn with each delicious bite!

TIPS:

• Moist Cupcakes with Fresh Apples: To ensure your caramel apple cupcakes turn out moist and flavorful, use fresh and ripe apples. Opt for varieties such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji, as they provide a balance of sweetness and tartness. Chop the apples into small, even pieces to distribute the apple flavor throughout the cupcakes. Avoid overmixing the batter once the apples are added to maintain their texture and prevent the cupcakes from becoming dense.
• Perfect Caramel Buttercream: Creating a smooth and creamy caramel buttercream requires patience and attention to detail. When adding the caramel sauce to the butter and shortening, do it gradually, and adjust the quantity based on your desired sweetness and caramel flavor intensity. If the buttercream becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to achieve the desired consistency. Additionally, refrigerate the buttercream for a short while before piping it onto the cooled cupcakes. Chilled buttercream holds its shape better and allows for beautifully piped swirls. Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the piped buttercream just before serving for an extra decadent touch.