Name: Irresistibly Delicious Cozy Apple Crumble Cupcakes Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 410 min
Ingredients: 225 g Icing Sugar; 45 g Custard Powder (can substitute with vanilla pudding mix for an alternative flavor); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (use almond extract for a unique twist); 200 ml Double Cream (substitute with heavy whipping cream if needed); 3 large Apples (a mix of sweet and tart varieties is ideal); 30 g Unsalted Butter (can use salted butter if needed (reduce added salt)); 80 g Unsalted Butter (for cupcake base); 50 g Soft Light Brown Sugar (substitute with brown sugar if needed); 40 g Soft Light Brown Sugar (for crumble topping); 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon (nutmeg can also be added for enhanced flavor); 2 large Eggs (no alternative for best results); 240 ml Milk (use any plant-based milk for dairy-free needs); 55 g Rolled Oats (can replace with crushed nuts for added crunch); 100 g Caster Sugar (granulated sugar can be used as a substitute); 240 g Plain Flour (for cupcakes); 55 g Plain Flour (for crumble); 1 tsp Baking Powder (baking soda can be used as a substitute, adjust quantity); 1 pinch Salt (omit if using salted butter)

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As the leaves start to turn and a crispness fills the air, I can’t help but crave the cozy embrace of autumn’s flavors. Recently, while foraging through my pantry, I unearthed a bag of cinnamon that ignited a spark of inspiration. The result? Delicious Cozy Apple Crumble Cupcakes with Custard Icing! Picture this: fluffy cupcakes bursting with tender apple chunks, all topped with a creamy custard icing and a delightful crumble that gives your taste buds a perfect crunch.

These treats are not just a feast for the palate but also a nostalgic nod to the beloved apple crumble we all know and love. Ideal for crisp fall gatherings or an afternoon sweet treat, these cupcakes are easy to whip up and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a sugary escape after a long day, these cupcakes will bring warmth and joy to any occasion. So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe, and embrace the magic of autumn one bite at a time!

Why are Delicious Cozy Apple Crumble Cupcakes special?

Comforting warmth: These cupcakes embody the essence of autumn, combining comforting apple flavors with a crunchy crumble.

Customizable options: Enjoy the freedom to swap apples with pears or even peaches for a unique twist!

Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, they are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Easy preparation: With straightforward instructions, you’ll find baking a breeze!

Irresistible textures: Experience the delightful contrast of fluffy cupcakes topped with rich icing and crispy crumble.

Make-ahead goodness: Prepare the custard icing and crumble a day early to save time without sacrificing taste!

Embrace the flavors of fall and create something unforgettable with these cozy treats!

Delicious Cozy Apple Crumble Cupcakes Ingredients

For the Custard Icing
• Icing Sugar – Adds sweetness and structure to the custard icing.
• Custard Powder – Enhances richness of the icing; can substitute with vanilla pudding mix for an alternative flavor.
• Vanilla Extract – Provides aromatic depth; use almond extract for a unique twist.
• Double Cream – Ensures a thick, luxurious icing; substitute with heavy whipping cream if needed.

For the Cupcakes and Filling
• Apples (3 large) – Adds moisture and sweet-tart flavor; a mix of sweet and tart varieties is ideal for these delicious cozy apple crumble cupcakes.
• Unsalted Butter (30g, 80g) – Provides richness to both apple filling and cupcake base; can use salted butter if needed (reduce added salt).
• Soft Light Brown Sugar (50g, 40g) – Adds sweetness and caramel notes to the apple mixture and crumble topping; substitute with brown sugar if needed.
• Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth into both the filling and cake; nutmeg can also be added for enhanced flavor.
• Large Eggs (2) – Binds the ingredients and contributes to the cupcake’s moist texture; no alternative for best results.

For the Crumble Topping
• Rolled Oats (55g) – Adds wholesome texture to the crumble topping; can replace with crushed nuts for added crunch.
• Caster Sugar – Sweetens the cupcake and provides a tender texture; granulated sugar can be used as a substitute.
• Plain Flour (240g, 55g) – Forms the structure for cupcakes and crumble; gluten-free flour blend can be experimented with.
• Baking Powder – Ensures cupcakes rise; baking soda can be used as a substitute, but adjust the quantity.
• Salt – Balances flavors; omit if using salted butter.
• Milk (240ml) – Moistens the batter; use any plant-based milk for dairy-free needs.

How to Make Delicious Cozy Apple Crumble Cupcakes

Prepare Custard Icing: Sift the icing sugar and custard powder into a bowl and combine with vanilla extract and double cream. Mix until smooth and creamy for a luscious icing.
Heat Cream: Gently warm the remaining double cream in a saucepan, then mix it with the custard to thicken. Let it chill for about 6 hours in the fridge to set perfectly.
Make Crumble Topping: In a separate bowl, combine flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Add in the chilled butter and mix with your fingers until crumbly, then bake for 15 minutes until golden brown.
Cook Apple Filling: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat and add the chopped apples. Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon; gently simmer until the apples are tender and fragrant.
Bake Cupcakes: In a mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and caster sugar until fluffy. Gradually add the dry ingredients, then stir in the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract, folding until just combined. Fill the cupcake cases halfway, add a spoonful of the apple filling, and top with more batter.
Bake: Place in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the tin for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Finish: Once cooled, pipe the chilled custard icing onto each cupcake, generous with the icing, and finish off with a sprinkle of your delicious crumble topping.

Optional: Drizzle with a bit of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Delicious Cozy Apple Crumble Cupcakes?

Indulge in a delightful array of accompaniments to elevate your cupcake experience, creating a truly memorable meal.

Warm Spiced Apple Cider: A comforting drink that complements the cinnamon flavors beautifully while adding a festive touch to your spread.
Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: This classic pairing brings a luscious creaminess that balances the spice and sweetness of the cupcakes.
Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Enhance the flavor with a sweet and salty caramel, offering an extra layer of indulgence over your custard icing.
Pecan Pie Bites: These bite-sized treats bring a nutty crunch that contrasts the soft cupcake texture, making for a delightful bite.
Fresh Berry Medley: A bright mix of berries refreshes the palate, cutting through the sweetness and adding a pop of color to your dessert table.
Hazelnut Coffee: The robust aroma and nutty flavor of freshly brewed hazelnut coffee make an inviting companion, perfect for a cozy afternoon.
Chocolate Ganache Tart: For those who adore chocolate, a rich tart serves as an exquisite contrast to the warm, fruity cupcakes.
Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes: Keep the seasonal spirit going with these spicy delights that pair perfectly with your apple crumble creation.
Chai Tea: A soothing cup of chai, with its aromatic spices, will enhance the warming notes of your apple crumble cupcakes, making the experience even more comforting.
Mini Cheesecakes: Add a creamy texture with playful flavor variations that intrigue the taste buds and offer a delightful contrast.

Delicious Cozy Apple Crumble Cupcakes Variations

Customize your baking adventure with these delightful twists that elevate your apple crumble experience!

Fruit Swap: Substitute apples with pears, peaches, or a medley of berries for a fresh taste.
These alternative fruits enhance sweetness and add a personal touch, perfect for experimenting!
Nutty Crunch: Add walnuts or pecans to the crumble topping for an irresistible crunch.
The nutty flavor profile complements the apple filling beautifully while creating a delicious texture contrast.
Spice It Up: Toss in a hint of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth and depth of flavor.
These spices awaken the cozy essence of autumn and create a more complex taste experience.
Extract Variety: Replace vanilla extract with almond or maple extract in the icing for a unique twist.
Each variant will bring a new layer of flavor, enhancing your cupcakes in an exciting way.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use coconut cream instead of double cream and any nut milk as a dairy alternative.
Enjoy the same lush icing without dairy, catering to a range of dietary preferences.
Gluten-Free Option: Experiment with a gluten-free flour blend to make your cupcakes accessible to everyone.
Your beloved apple crumble cupcakes can now be enjoyed by those with gluten sensitivities!
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over your iced cupcakes for an indulgent treat.
The rich chocolate adds a decadent touch that perfectly contrasts with the fruity flavors.
Salted Caramel: Drizzle a little salted caramel sauce on top, alongside the crumble, for a sweet-salty surprise.
This simple addition will take your cupcakes to new heights of deliciousness!

Make Ahead Options

These Delicious Cozy Apple Crumble Cupcakes with Custard Icing are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the custard icing and crumble topping up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to streamline your baking process. Simply make the custard icing and allow it to chill in the fridge for at least 6 hours, while the crumble can be baked and stored at room temperature in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, mix your wet and dry ingredients, fill the cupcake cases with batter, and don’t forget to layer in the apple filling! By finishing with the prepped icing and crumble, you’ll serve up cupcakes that are just as delicious, making your busy weeknights a little sweeter!

Tips for the Best Apple Crumble Cupcakes

Room Temperature Butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for optimal creaming; this helps incorporate air for fluffier cupcakes.
Mixing Matters: Avoid overmixing the batter to maintain a tender texture. Mix just until combined for the best results with your apple crumble cupcakes.
Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the cupcakes are done; it should come out clean from the center to ensure perfect baking.
Chill the Icing: For best piping consistency, consider chilling your custard icing longer before decorating your apple crumble cupcakes; it results in smoother application.
Experiment with Fruits: Feel free to swap out apples for pears or other fruits to customize flavors while keeping your apple crumble cupcakes delightful!

Storage Tips for Delicious Cozy Apple Crumble Cupcakes

Room Temperature: Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their moistness and flavor.
Fridge: If you wish to keep them longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week. This helps preserve the custard icing’s consistency.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the cupcakes uniced for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and ice just before serving.
Reheating: Warm the cupcakes gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to revive their soft texture, especially if chilled.

Delicious Cozy Apple Crumble Cupcakes Recipe FAQs

What type of apples should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! I recommend using a mix of sweet and tart apple varieties, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, to ensure a balanced flavor. This combination brings out the cozy essence of the cupcakes while keeping them delightful.

How should I store the apple crumble cupcakes?
Very simply! Store your delicious cozy apple crumble cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them moist. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week. Just remember to cover the icing to prevent it from drying out!

Can I freeze these cupcakes?
Of course! To freeze, it’s best to do so uniced. Place the cooled cupcakes in an airtight container or wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then put them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow them to thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then icing just before serving for the best experience!

What should I do if the custard icing is too runny?
If your custard icing turns out runny, no worries! You can thicken it by chilling it in the fridge for a bit longer until it reaches the desired consistency. Alternatively, add a dusting of extra icing sugar, mixing well until it thickens. Patience is key for that creamy perfection!

Can I use dairy-free ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free option, use plant-based alternatives like almond milk or coconut cream instead of regular milk and heavy cream. I often make these adjustments for my friends with dietary preferences, and they turn out fabulously! Just be sure your icing sugar is also dairy-free.

What can I substitute for the rolled oats in the crumble topping?
If you’re looking for a different texture, you can swap out the rolled oats for crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts. Simply replace the quantity with half of crushed nuts, and mix them into the crumble mixture for added crunch and flavor. The more the merrier when it comes to delicious toppings!