She Strengthens

Autumn Bliss in Every Bite: Apple Cupcakes with Maple Frosting

Get Ready for a Flavorful Treat

As the leaves change colors and the air grows crisp, our taste buds crave the warm, comforting flavors of autumn. These apple cupcakes with maple frosting are the perfect treat to satisfy those cravings.

The Perfect Combination of Flavors

Moist, fluffy cake filled with the sweetness of apples and the warmth of spices, topped with a rich, creamy maple frosting – what’s not to love? These cupcakes are a masterclass in balancing flavors, with each bite a perfect harmony of sweet and savory.

A Simple Recipe for a Delicious Treat

To make these autumn-inspired cupcakes, you’ll need:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon fine salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup low-fat buttermilk, shaken and at room temperature
• 3 cups shredded Gala or other baking apples (about 4 medium apples)

Preparing the Cake

Heat your oven to 350°F and arrange a rack in the middle. Line two 12-well muffin pans with paper liners or coat the wells with butter. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and ginger to aerate and break up any lumps. Set aside.

Creamy Frosting and Crunchy Apples

Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter until very light in color. Add the sugar and vanilla, continuing to beat until the mixture is airy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing until well combined. Turn off the mixer and scrape down the paddle and the sides of the bowl. Set the mixer on low speed, slowly pouring in the buttermilk, and mix until combined. Add the reserved flour mixture and mix until just combined. Remove the bowl from the mixer and fold in the shredded apples and any accumulated liquid until just combined.

Baking to Perfection

Fill the muffin wells about three-quarters full and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through the baking time. Remove the cupcakes from the pans and let cool completely on wire racks before frosting with the maple buttercream.

A Delicious Twist on a Classic

These apple cupcakes with maple frosting are a unique twist on a classic treat. Perfect for autumn gatherings or simply as a sweet indulgence, they’re sure to become a new favorite. So go ahead, take a bite, and savor the flavors of the season!