Go Back
Delight in the fusion of two beloved treats with our Apple Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes. These delightful pastries combine the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the fluffy texture of cupcakes, all enhanced by the sweetness of fresh apples. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this recipe will have your kitchen filled with enticing aromas that beckon everyone to the table. In this article, we’ll explore the ingredients, preparation steps, and unique qualities of these scrumptious cupcakes, ensuring you have everything you need to create a delicious experience.

Apple Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes

Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors with Apple Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes! This recipe beautifully merges the warmth of cinnamon rolls with the fluffy texture of cupcakes, featuring fresh apples for an extra sweet touch. Perfect for brunch, dessert, or afternoon treats, these cupcakes come topped with creamy cream cheese frosting. With easy-to-follow steps and a mix of simple ingredients, you'll fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas and create a dessert that impresses everyone!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the cinnamon roll batter:

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 tsp baking powder

½ tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

½ cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

1 large egg

¾ cup buttermilk

1 tsp vanilla extract

For the apple filling:

2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith works well)

¼ cup brown sugar

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tbsp lemon juice

For the cinnamon swirl:

¼ cup brown sugar

1 tsp cinnamon

2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened

For the cream cheese frosting:

4 oz cream cheese, softened

¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

2 cups powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1-2 tbsp milk (if needed for consistency)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

    Prepare the Apple Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Toss until apples are well-coated. Set aside.

      Make the Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter until combined. Set aside.

        Prepare the Cupcake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and granulated sugar. In another bowl, combine melted butter, egg, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.

          Fill the Cupcake Liners: Spoon a small amount of batter (about 1 tablespoon) into each cupcake liner. Add a teaspoon of the apple mixture on top, followed by a small dollop of the cinnamon swirl mixture. Cover with additional batter until the liners are about 2/3 full.

            Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

              Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. Add vanilla and mix until well combined. If the frosting is too thick, add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

                Frost and Serve: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on each cupcake. Optionally, sprinkle with extra cinnamon or chopped nuts for decoration.

                  Enjoy: Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Enjoy your delicious Apple Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 minutes | 1 hour | 12 cupcakes