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When it comes to delightful baked treats, few combinations can rival the exquisite union of apple butter and cream cheese frosting. These two flavors meld together to create a rich, moist cupcake that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a fall gathering, or simply craving a cozy dessert, Deliciously Spiced Apple Butter Cream Cheese Frosted Cupcakes are sure to impress.

Apple Butter Cream Cheese Frosted Cupcakes

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Deliciously Spiced Apple Butter Cream Cheese Frosted Cupcakes! These moist, rich cupcakes blend the warmth of apple butter with a creamy tangy frosting, creating a perfect sweet treat for any occasion. Ideal for fall gatherings, birthdays, or cozy desserts, these cupcakes not only impress with their taste but also boast health benefits from apples. Follow our easy guide to bake and decorate these irresistible delights, and enjoy a slice of seasonal joy!
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Ingredients
  

For the Cupcakes:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

1 cup packed brown sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ cup unsweetened applesauce

½ cup apple butter

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

2 cups powdered sugar, sifted to remove lumps

2 tablespoons apple butter

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for garnish)

For the Garnish:

Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

A drizzle of apple butter

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven:

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a standard muffin tin by lining it with cupcake liners.

      Mix Dry Ingredients:

        In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.

          Cream Butter and Sugar:

            In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat together the softened butter and packed brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.

              Add Eggs and Flavorings:

                Incorporate the eggs one at a time, ensuring thorough mixing after each addition. Following this, mix in the vanilla extract, unsweetened applesauce, and apple butter until the mixture is completely combined and smooth.

                  Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

                    Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should retain a moist and thick consistency.

                      Fill Cupcake Liners:

                        Use a spoon or an ice cream scoop to divide the batter evenly among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each liner about two-thirds full to allow for rising.

                          Bake:

                            Place the cupcake tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. After baking, allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                              Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting:

                                While the cupcakes cool, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter in a mixing bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, mixing until fluffy. Finally, mix in the apple butter and vanilla extract until fully combined.

                                  Frost the Cupcakes:

                                    Once the cupcakes have completely cooled, use a piping bag or a spatula to generously frost each cupcake with the creamy frosting, creating swirls or peaks as desired.

                                      Garnish:

                                        Dust a pinch of ground cinnamon on top of the frosted cupcakes. If you wish, sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture. To elevate the flavor, drizzle a little apple butter over each cupcake.

                                          Serve:

                                            Present your delightful apple butter cream cheese frosted cupcakes and enjoy them paired with a warm cup of tea or coffee for an irresistible treat!

                                              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 45 minutes | Makes 12 cupcakes