Apple Crumble Cupcakes: The Perfect Fall Dessert Recipe

There’s something magical about fall baking—the scent of warm cinnamon, spiced apples, and buttery crumble filling your kitchen. If you’re searching for a cozy dessert that perfectly captures the essence of autumn, look no further than Apple Crumble Cupcakes.

These cupcakes combine the nostalgic charm of apple crumble with the soft, fluffy texture of a cupcake. Each bite offers sweetness, spice, and crunch, making them the perfect treat for gatherings or lazy weekends at home.

The Story Behind Apple Crumble Cupcakes

The classic apple crumble originated in Britain during wartime as a simple yet comforting dessert. Over the years, it’s evolved into a staple of fall baking traditions, cherished for its rustic flavor and ease of preparation.

If you love exploring comfort desserts, you might also enjoy Gremdo’s post on how to make pumpkin spice latte muffins — another seasonal treat that pairs perfectly with cozy afternoons.

When choosing apples for baking, the University of Minnesota Extension’s Apple Baking Guide recommends Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith—each offering a balanced sweetness and firmness ideal for cupcakes.

Ingredients for Apple Crumble Cupcakes

Creating the perfect apple crumble cupcake doesn’t require fancy ingredients—just quality staples and fresh apples.

Crumble Topping Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

Apple Filling Ingredients

• 3 medium apples, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon flour

Cupcake Batter Ingredients

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup butter, softened
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup milk

For more fall-inspired flavor ideas, see Gremdo’s ultimate guide to cinnamon desserts for pairing tips and spice combinations.

How to Make Apple Crumble Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare the Crumble Topping

1. Combine flour, brown sugar, and spices.
2. Cut in the cold butter until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Chill the mixture while preparing the batter.

Keeping the butter cold ensures that irresistible crunchy crumble topping.

Step 2: Prepare the Spiced Apple Filling

1. Mix diced apples with sugar, lemon juice, and spices.
2. Toss until coated and let sit for 10 minutes.

The mixture will slightly caramelize in the oven, infusing your cupcakes with sweet, spiced flavor.

Step 3: Make the Apple Crumble Cupcake Batter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin.
2. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla.
4. Alternate between adding dry and wet ingredients.

For precise measurements, the King Arthur Baking Ingredient Weight Chart is a fantastic reference.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake Apple Crumble Cupcakes

1. Fill each cupcake liner halfway with batter.
2. Add a spoonful of apple filling.
3. Sprinkle crumble topping generously on top.
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown.

Your kitchen will smell like apple pie meets cupcake heaven.

Toppings and Garnishes for Apple Crumble Cupcakes

Take your cupcakes up a notch with creative garnishes:

• Drizzle caramel sauce for sweetness.
• Dust with powdered sugar for a classic bakery look.
• Add cream cheese frosting for indulgence.
• Top with chopped nuts for crunch.

You can also check out Gremdo’s best cream cheese frosting recipe for cupcakes for a perfect pairing option.

Pro Baking Tips for Apple Crumble Cupcakes

• Use cold butter in the crumble for crisp texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter—gentle folding keeps cupcakes fluffy.
• Mix apple varieties for more depth of flavor.
• Store in an airtight container for freshness up to 3 days.

Apple Crumble Cupcake Variations

• Gluten-Free: Swap flour for a gluten-free blend.
• Vegan: Replace butter with vegan margarine and eggs with flax eggs.
• Apple-Pear Fusion: Use half apples, half pears.
• Nutty Crumble: Add chopped walnuts for richness.

You can find inspiration in Gremdo’s simple vegan fall dessert recipes for more plant-based ideas.

What to Serve with Apple Crumble Cupcakes

Enjoy your cupcakes:

• Warm with chai latte or apple cider
• With a scoop of vanilla ice cream
• As part of a fall dessert platter

For drink pairings, try Gremdo’s cozy fall drink ideas — perfect to serve alongside these cupcakes.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips for Apple Crumble Cupcakes

• Store at room temperature up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for a week or freeze for 1 month.
• Reheat at 300°F to refresh the crumble topping.

Nutrition Facts for Apple Crumble Cupcakes

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 12g
• Sugar: 22g
• Protein: 3g

Swap Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter, protein-rich version.

FAQs About Apple Crumble Cupcakes

Can I use canned apple filling?
Yes—reduce the added sugar slightly.

How do I keep the crumble crispy?
Use cold butter and let cupcakes cool fully before storing.

Can I make them gluten-free or vegan?
Absolutely—see the recipe variations section above for substitutions.

Can I add frosting?
Yes! Try the cream cheese frosting recipe linked above from Gremdo.

Final Thoughts on Apple Crumble Cupcakes

There’s no better way to celebrate autumn than with Apple Crumble Cupcakes. With their tender crumb, spiced apple filling, and buttery topping, these cupcakes offer comfort in every bite.

Bake a batch, brew a chai latte, and enjoy the flavors of fall. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving or baking for yourself, these cupcakes are sure to impress.

For more fall recipes like this one, check out Gremdo’s collection of cozy fall desserts — your next favorite bake might be waiting there!

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