Apple Crumble Cupcakes

If you’re searching for a dessert that combines tender, moist cake with a sweet, crunchy topping, Apple Crumble Cupcakes are your ultimate fall treat. These spiced delights capture the warmth of autumn in every bite, blending juicy apples, fragrant cinnamon, and a buttery crumble topping into a cupcake-sized indulgence. Perfect for cozy evenings, brunches, or party desserts, these cupcakes are more than just visually appealing—they’re irresistible.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe guarantees moist, flavorful cupcakes with a crunchy finish. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to craft Apple Crumble Cupcakes that rival any bakery creation.

Why You’ll Love These Apple Crumble Cupcakes

  • Perfectly Moist Texture: The sour cream and milk in the batter keep each cupcake tender and soft.

  • Crisp Crumble Topping: A buttery, cinnamon-spiced topping adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.

  • Autumn Flavor Explosion: Apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg evoke the cozy flavors of fall.

  • Quick & Easy Prep: Ready in under an hour, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings.

  • Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Common pantry staples create a gourmet dessert without breaking the bank.

  • Customizable: Swap apples with pears or add caramel drizzle for a decadent twist.

  • Kid-Friendly: Sweet, soft, and fun-sized cupcakes that kids adore.

  • Perfect for Gifting: Wrap in parchment and ribbon for charming homemade gifts.

Ingredients for Apple Crumble Cupcakes

Apple Filling:

  • 3 medium apples (Honeycrisp, Gala, or Fuji), peeled, cored, diced

  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar

  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour

Crumble Topping:

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Cupcake Batter:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder

  • 1/4 tsp baking soda

  • 1/4 tsp salt

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt

  • 1/4 cup milk

Optional Garnish: Caramel sauce and powdered sugar

Ingredient Tips:

  • Use tart apples like Granny Smith for balanced sweetness.

  • Cold butter in crumble ensures a flaky, crispy topping.

  • Room temperature eggs blend more smoothly with the batter, giving cupcakes a lighter texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crumble Topping

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or fingertips until coarse crumbs form. Refrigerate until ready to use.

2. Make the Apple Filling

Combine diced apples, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Stir until evenly coated. Set aside. This coating prevents apples from sinking and keeps them juicy.

3. Prepare the Cupcake Batter

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.

  2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

  3. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy, about 3–5 minutes. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.

  4. Mix sour cream with milk. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream mixture. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep cupcakes tender.

4. Assemble the Cupcakes

Spoon ~2 tbsp batter into each liner, then top with 2 tbsp apple filling. Sprinkle crumble topping generously.

5. Bake & Cool

Bake 20–25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in the pan briefly before transferring to a wire rack. Drizzle with caramel and dust with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.

Pro Tips

How to Make Apple Crumble Cupcakes Extra Moist?

Add an extra tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt; this boosts moisture without making the batter too wet.

Can I Use Frozen Apples?

Yes, but thaw and drain thoroughly. Excess liquid can make the cupcakes soggy.

Why Does My Crumble Sink?

Ensure the butter is cold and the apple filling is lightly coated with flour. This prevents topping from melting into the batter.

Best Ways to Serve Apple Crumble Cupcakes

  • Pair with a warm chai latte or spiced coffee.

  • Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert parfait.

  • Serve at brunch alongside cinnamon rolls and pumpkin muffins.

Nutrition (Per Cupcake)

  • Calories: 250

  • Fat: 12g

  • Saturated Fat: 7g

  • Carbohydrates: 34g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sugar: 18g

  • Protein: 3g

Storage & Leftovers

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

  • Refrigerate for up to 5 days; allow cupcakes to reach room temperature before serving.

  • Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

FAQs

Q: Can I make mini Apple Crumble Cupcakes for parties?
A: Absolutely! Reduce baking time to 12–15 minutes.

Q: Are these gluten-free adaptable?
A: Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend in a 1:1 ratio.

Q: Can I add nuts to the topping?
A: Chopped pecans or walnuts add crunch and nutty flavor.

Q: How long do cupcakes stay fresh?
A: 2 days at room temp, 5 days refrigerated, 2 months frozen.

Variations

  • Apple Spice Cupcakes: Add ginger and cloves for a spicier profile.

  • Caramel Apple Cupcakes: Mix caramel bits into the batter for extra indulgence.

  • Mini Apple Crumble Cakes: Perfect for bite-sized treats at gatherings.

  • Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter, yogurt, and flax eggs.

Conclusion

Fall has never tasted this good. With tender cake, juicy apple filling, and buttery crumble topping, these Apple Crumble Cupcakes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for cozy mornings, festive occasions, or as a sweet surprise for someone you love, these cupcakes bring autumn to life.

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