Apple Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes

Indulge in the Cozy Warmth of Fall Flavors

Imagine biting into a cupcake that perfectly captures the essence of autumn 🍂. Our Apple Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes deliver just that—a delightful blend of sweet, tangy apples and warm, spicy cinnamon, all nestled within a soft, fluffy cupcake. The highlight of this recipe is the secret heart of cinnamon-spiced apple pieces, adding a burst of flavor and texture with every bite. Topped with a smooth, creamy glaze, these cupcakes are not just a treat; they’re an experience. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these cupcakes promise to bring a touch of magic to your kitchen, making any day feel special.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavors: Combines the classic taste of cinnamon rolls with fresh apples.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps for a delicious outcome, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack.
• Impressive Presentation: Sure to impress family and friends with their delightful taste and appearance.

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Ingredients

• 1 (8 oz.) tube of refrigerated crescent rolls or crescent dough sheet: Provides a soft and flaky base for the cupcakes.
• 1 medium apple, diced into small pieces: Adds a fresh, fruity flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
• 3 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted (divided): Gives the cupcakes a rich, buttery taste.
• ⅓ cup sugar (half light brown sugar, half white granulated sugar): A mix of sugars for a deeper, more complex sweetness.
• Cinnamon, to taste (approximately 3/4 teaspoon): The star spice, providing that classic cinnamon roll flavor.

For the Glaze:

• ½ cup powdered sugar: The base of the glaze for sweetness and smooth texture.
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup: Adds a subtle maple flavor that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon and apple.
• 1 Tbsp. milk (or more to achieve desired consistency): Helps thin out the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with paper liners for 8 cupcakes. This ensures easy removal and a clean presentation.

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Prepare the Dough

2. Unroll Dough: Unroll the crescent dough sheet onto a sheet of parchment paper. If using crescent rolls, press and seal the perforations to form a large rectangle.
3. Butter and Sugar: Brush the dough with 2 Tbsp. melted butter, reserving the rest for later. Mix together the cinnamon and sugar, then sprinkle evenly over the buttered dough.
4. Add Apples: Spread the diced apples evenly over the dough, ensuring each bite has a fruity element.

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Roll and Slice

5. Roll Dough: Starting from the long side, roll the dough into a log, keeping it tight to ensure the filling stays in place.
6. Slice Log: Slice the log into 8 pieces, each about 1 ½ inches thick. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts.
7. Place in Liners: Place the slices into the prepared cupcake liners, ensuring they fit snugly.

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Bake

8. Butter Tops: Brush the tops with the remaining melted butter to give them a beautiful golden finish.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown. If they brown too quickly, cover with aluminum foil.
10. Cool: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before glazing.

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Prepare the Glaze

11. Mix Glaze: Combine the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk in a small bowl. Stir until smooth, adding more milk if needed.
12. Drizzle Glaze: Drizzle the glaze over the slightly cooled cupcakes, adding a sweet finishing touch.

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Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast treat.
• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert option.
• Pair with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra indulgence.

Storage Tips:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore warmth.
• Freezing: Freeze individually wrapped cupcakes for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat before serving.

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Helpful Notes and Variations

• Additions: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Spices: Experiment with spices such as nutmeg or allspice for a new flavor dimension.
• Healthier Option: Use whole wheat crescent dough and reduce sugar for a healthier version.

These Apple Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes are versatile and can be customized to suit your taste. Enjoy baking and savoring these delightful cupcakes!