These Easy Apple Crumble Cupcakes are a yummy treat with a moist apple base and a crunchy crumble topping. They’re perfect for any occasion and easy to make!
I love how they smell while baking; it’s like autumn in my kitchen! 🍏 Plus, they’re so good warm straight from the oven with a bit of ice cream on the side. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This is your base for the cupcakes. If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
Apples: I recommend using Granny Smith or Fuji apples because they balance sweetness and tartness. You can also try Honeycrisp or Golden Delicious, depending on your taste preferences.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Either adds moisture and tang. If you’re avoiding dairy, use a plant-based yogurt, like coconut or almond yogurt – it’ll work well!
Butter: Use unsalted butter for better flavor control. If you need dairy-free options, you can switch it with coconut oil or a non-dairy butter substitute.
How Do You Make a Perfect Crumble Topping?
Getting the crumble topping just right is essential, as it adds texture and flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Cube the cold butter and add it to the mixture. Using a fork or pastry cutter, mix it until it resembles coarse crumbs. Don’t overwork it!
- Sprinkle this topping evenly over the batter before baking. This crispy layer adds a delicious crunch to each cupcake.
Remember, less is more when mixing the crumble to keep those yummy clumps. Enjoy your baking!
Easy Apple Crumble Cupcakes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 ¼ cups peeled and diced apples (about 2 medium apples; use sweet-tart varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji)
For the Crumble Topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- 3 tbsp cold unsalted butter, cubed
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. After baking, you should allow at least 5 minutes to cool in the pan. Total time is approximately 40-45 minutes before they’re ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners. This will help your cupcakes bake evenly and make for easy serving!
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. This helps distribute the leavening agents and spices so your cupcakes will rise nicely and taste great!
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. It’s a key step for soft, airy cupcakes!
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next one. Then stir in the vanilla extract to add a lovely flavor to your cupcakes.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the sour cream or Greek yogurt. Start with a third of the dry ingredients, mix, then add half the sour cream, and repeat until everything is combined. Be careful not to over-mix; it’s okay if it’s a little lumpy.
6. Fold in Apples:
Gently fold the diced apples into the batter. This adds yummy chunks of fruit throughout your cupcakes.
7. Fill the Cupcake Liners:
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full to allow room for rising.
8. Make the Crumble Topping:
In a small bowl, prepare the crumble topping by mixing together the flour, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Aim for a crumbly texture!
9. Sprinkle the Topping:
Evenly sprinkle the crumble over the top of each cupcake. This will give them a deliciously crunchy topping once baked.
10. Bake the Cupcakes:
Place the cupcakes in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them towards the end—everyone’s oven can vary a bit!
11. Cool Before Serving:
Once done, allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for approximately 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Serve and Enjoy:
These cupcakes are delightful served warm or at room temperature. For an extra treat, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side!
Enjoy your homemade Easy Apple Crumble Cupcakes! They’re sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Fuji apples are recommended for their sweet-tart balance, you can also use Honeycrisp, Golden Delicious, or any apple you enjoy. Just ensure they’re firm and flavorful for the best results.
Can I Make These Cupcakes Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just give it a gentle stir before spooning it into the cupcake liners. You can also bake the cupcakes ahead and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Cupcakes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cupcakes (without crumble topping) for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and seal them in a freezer bag.
Can I Substitute Greek Yogurt with Something Else?
Yes! If you don’t have Greek yogurt or prefer not to use it, sour cream is an excellent substitute. You can also use plant-based yogurts if you’re looking for a dairy-free option!
