Caramel Maple Apple Cupcakes

Name: Caramel Maple Apple Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 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; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; ½ cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup peeled and diced apples; ¼ cup maple syrup; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; ¼ cup caramel sauce; 2 tbsp heavy cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; Extra caramel sauce; Chopped nuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Sweet Baking Recipes

I absolutely love these Caramel Maple Apple Cupcakes! The combination of sweet caramel and fresh apples creates a delightful treat that satisfies any sweet tooth. Each bite is a perfect balance between cake and frosting, making it an indulgent dessert perfect for any occasion. Baking these cupcakes brings back memories of cozy autumn days spent in the kitchen, and I can't resist the inviting aroma that fills the house as they're baking. They're perfect for gatherings, and I guarantee that friends and family will be impressed!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:37:28.083Z

When I first decided to combine caramel and apples in a cupcake, I never imagined it would turn into such a beloved recipe among my friends. Each batch I bake disappears almost instantly! The trick is in the caramel—using a mix of store-bought and homemade caramel elevates the flavor and creates a gooey surprise in every bite.

To make these cupcakes even more special, I like to add a touch of maple syrup to the batter, which complements the apples perfectly. The result is a moist, flavorful cupcake that will allure any dessert lover. Trust me, you'll want to keep this recipe in your rotation!

Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
Decadent caramel swirl that creates a sweet surprise
Moist and fluffy texture with real apple chunks
Perfect for fall celebrations or as a cozy weekend treat

Baking Tips for Perfect Cupcakes

When baking these Caramel Maple Apple Cupcakes, it’s crucial to ensure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) for consistent baking. If your cupcakes are overbaked, they may turn dry; check them at the 20-minute mark using a toothpick. If it comes out with a few moist crumbs, they’re perfectly baked. If you notice the tops are browning too quickly, consider placing a piece of aluminum foil loosely over them halfway through baking to prevent burning.

Using room temperature ingredients, particularly the butter and eggs, helps to create a smoother batter and aids in the incorporation of air, resulting in a fluffier texture. I recommend letting the eggs sit out for about 30 minutes before you start. This tiny step can make a significant difference in the final outcome of the cupcakes, contributing to their light and airy structure.

Choosing and Preparing Apples

For the best flavor in these cupcakes, select crisp apples with a balance of sweetness and tartness. Varieties such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work beautifully. Be sure to peel and dice your apples into small chunks; this allows them to distribute evenly throughout the batter and cook through during baking. Chunks that are too large might not soften enough, affecting the texture of the final product.

After dicing the apples, consider tossing them in a teaspoon of flour before adding them to the batter. This helps prevent the apples from sinking to the bottom while baking, ensuring a delightful apple bite in every cupcake. It is a simple yet effective technique that enhances the overall experience of enjoying these delicious treats.

Frosting Variations and Storage Tips

While the caramel frosting is decadent, you can experiment by adding a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the frosting for an extra layer of flavor that complements the maple and apple notes. Additionally, if you're looking to reduce sugar, you can use a cream cheese frosting mixed with a little caramel sauce for a tangy twist. Just remember, cream cheese frosting should be stored in the refrigerator due to its perishable nature.

These cupcakes can be made a day in advance, and they actually taste better the next day as the flavors meld. To store, simply place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cupcakes without frosting for up to three months. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge before decorating, and they'll be ready to enjoy whenever you crave a sweet treat.

Ingredients

Cupcake Batter

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
½ cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup peeled and diced apples
¼ cup maple syrup

Caramel Frosting

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
¼ cup caramel sauce
2 tbsp heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract

To Garnish

Extra caramel sauce
Chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

Instructions

Prepare the Cupcake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream together butter and eggs, then add milk and vanilla. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until combined. Fold in the diced apples and maple syrup.

Bake the Cupcakes

Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with batter. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Caramel Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat together the softened butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Add caramel sauce, heavy cream, and vanilla, and continue to beat until fluffy.

Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe the caramel frosting on top. Drizzle with extra caramel sauce and sprinkle with chopped nuts, if desired.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, try using homemade caramel sauce instead of store-bought for the frosting. This will elevate the flavors even more. Also, remember to pack the diced apples tightly into the batter to ensure every bite is packed with fruit!

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make these Caramel Maple Apple Cupcakes gluten-free, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Ensure the blend contains xantham gum, which helps mimic the texture of gluten. Additionally, for a dairy-free version, replace the butter with coconut oil and the milk with almond or oat milk, keeping the rest of the recipe the same to maintain the delightful flavors of caramel and apple.

For a lower sugar option, consider using applesauce in place of some of the granulated sugar. You can substitute half of the sugar with unsweetened applesauce, which will enhance the moistness of the cupcakes while still allowing the sweet apple and caramel flavor to shine through. Just be cautious as this may slightly change the texture; however, it’s worth trying for a healthier take on these cupcakes.

Serving Suggestions

These cupcakes shine at gatherings and celebrations, but they also work beautifully as a cozy treat for a quiet evening at home. Serve them on a rustic wooden platter adorned with fall decorations, such as small pumpkins or autumn leaves. Pair the cupcakes with a warm beverage like spiced cider or a latte to enhance that cozy atmosphere.

For a fun twist, consider turning these cupcakes into a dessert bar! Provide small bowls of additional toppings such as crushed toffee bits, whipped cream, or caramel drizzle, allowing guests to customize their cupcakes. This interactive element not only makes for an entertaining serving style but also enhances the overall experience of enjoying these delightful treats.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and frost them on the same day you plan to serve them for the best texture.

→ What type of apples work best for this recipe?

I recommend using a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for the best flavor.

→ Can I substitute the butter in the frosting?

You can use cream cheese or a vegan butter alternative if you prefer, but it will change the flavor slightly.

→ How should I store the leftover cupcakes?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.