Salted Caramel Apple Cupcakes

Salted Caramel Apple Cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines the warm flavors of apples and spices with a rich, sweet caramel. These cupcakes are not only delicious, but they also add a touch of elegance to any dessert table. Topped with a creamy salted caramel cream cheese frosting, they are sure to please everyone!

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves the classic flavors of apple pie but wants to enjoy it in a new and fun way. The combination of spices, sweet apples, and salted caramel makes for a mouthwatering dessert that is great for birthdays, fall gatherings, or just a cozy night in. Plus, they are simple enough for beginners to make!

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Cupcakes

Ingredients

For the Salted Brown Butter Caramel Sauce:

1/2 cup + 1 tbsp salted butter (for caramel)
1/2 cup heavy cream (for caramel)
1 cup granulated sugar (for caramel)
1/2 tsp fine sea salt (for caramel)
1/4 tsp cream of tartar (for caramel)
2 tbsp water (for caramel)
1 tsp vanilla bean paste (for caramel)
Pinch of flaky sea salt (for caramel)

For the Apple Cupcakes:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp each: nutmeg, allspice, cloves, ginger
1/2 cup brown butter (start with 11 tbsp salted butter)
2/3 cup dark brown sugar
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 eggs, room temp
1 tsp vanilla
1 tbsp molasses
2/3 cup applesauce
1 1/2 medium apples, finely grated

For the Frosting:

6 oz cream cheese, cold
8 tbsp salted butter, room temp
1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
1/2 cup salted brown butter caramel sauce

Directions

Make the Salted Brown Butter Caramel Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir until it turns dark golden.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream and set aside.
- In another saucepan, combine sugar, salt, cream of tartar, and water. Bring to a boil and reduce heat until it turns amber in color.
- Slowly add the butter-cream mixture and stir constantly. Cook for 1 more minute, then remove from heat. Stir in vanilla and a pinch of flaky sea salt. Chill in the fridge.
Make the Apple Cupcakes:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with parchment cups.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and spices.
- In a saucepan, melt and brown 11 tbsp of butter. Measure out 1/2 cup for the batter.
- In a large bowl, mix the browned butter with brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla, and molasses.
- Stir in half the dry ingredients, then the applesauce, followed by the remaining dry ingredients.
- Gently fold in the grated apples.
- Divide the batter into the cupcake pan, filling each cup 3/4 full. Bake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
Make the Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar until fully combined.
- Drizzle in the caramel sauce and beat until smooth and lump-free.
Assemble:
- Decorate the cooled cupcakes with salted caramel cream cheese frosting.
- Drizzle more caramel sauce on top and sprinkle with flaky sea salt for a finishing touch.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Cupcakes

Serve these cupcakes at room temperature. They make a great dessert for parties, family dinners, or simply as a sweet treat with your afternoon coffee or tea.

How to Store Salted Caramel Apple Cupcakes

Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep for about 3-5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cupcakes without frosting for up to a month, then frost them when you are ready to serve.

Tips to Make Salted Caramel Apple Cupcakes

Make sure to use room temperature eggs for the batter to mix properly.
Use freshly grated apples for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t skip chilling the caramel sauce; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Variation

For a nutty twist, you can add chopped pecans or walnuts into the cupcake batter. You can also substitute the applesauce with mashed bananas for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Frost them on the day you plan to serve them.
Is it necessary to chill the caramel sauce?
Chilling the caramel helps it thicken and improve the flavor before you use it for frosting.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
While homemade caramel adds a special touch, you can use store-bought caramel if you’re short on time.

Enjoy baking and sharing these delicious Salted Caramel Apple Cupcakes!