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Buttermilk Cupcakes with Caramel Icing

November 17, 2014 by Sandra Shaffer 37 Comments

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Delicious Buttermilk Cupcakes topped with Caramel Icing and a mini candied apple! Fun fall treat for any gathering! Light and tender cupcake with just the right amount of sweetness in the caramel frosting.

Buttermilk Cupcakes with Caramel Icing - The Foodie Affair

Buttermilk Cupcakes

According to Pinterest I’m already behind the blogging holiday schedule. Yep, there are tons of holiday desserts already circulating.

I’m never in a rush for the holiday season. It’s hard to just enjoy right now instead of looking toward what is next, which is what bloggers need to do so we don’t fall behind the eight ball.

Fall is my favorite time of year, and I’m determined not the rush the season along by baking Christmas cookies just yet. Let’s enjoy Thanksgiving and these buttermilk cupcakes first!

Are you with me?

Buttermilk Cupcakes with Caramel Icing - The Foodie Affair

Buttermilk Cupcake Recipe With Mini Candy Apples

These cupcakes are just super adorable and fun to make. This recipe is your typical lots of sugar and flour recipe.

There is nothing diet-like in this recipe. In fact, I won’t recommend any modifications. Sometimes it’s ok to indulge. As long as lingering medical conditions don’t set you back.

Buttermilk cake adds a nice tang, is tender and tasty, but what really brings the flavors together is the earthy caramel icing!

Plus, I added an extra special decoration. What looks like a cherry on top of the cupcake is actually a mini candy apple!

These crispy adorable Crimson Gold apples were at my grocery store and I had to have them. I bought two bags full!  

Aren’t they the cutest little apples you’ve ever seen? They’re a perfect little sweet and flavorful snack!

Crimson Gold apples also are the perfect candy apple topper for these cupcakes!

If you’re interested in learning more about these little gems, I found this great article Crimson Gold Apples – A Tiny Tasty Treat! over at Shockingly Delicious!

holding Crimson Gold apple
Photo Credit : Alchetron

Why Use Buttermilk In Vanilla Cupcakes?

Buttermilk is acidic, which helps break down gluten aiding it tender cupcakes.

In addition, the reaction of the buttermilk and baking soda together adds air giving these buttermilk cupcakes a nice airy texture.

Can I Use Powdered Buttermilk?

Yes! Powder buttermilk works fine in baked goods adding the same yummy flavor and texture.

Although there are some tips to consider. I find that the powdered buttermilk can clump up when reconstituted, so you need to mix well.

One way to incorporate powder buttermilk is to whisk it into the dry ingredients, then add the extra water it calls for in the liquid ingredients.

Buttermilk Cupcakes with Caramel Icing - The Foodie Affair

How To Store Candied Apples

These mini candied apples will last several days at room temperature or up to two weeks in the refrigerator.

Although, I recommend covering them to keep them dry so that the candy doesn’t get gooey or extra sticky.

To keep the buttermilk cupcakes fresh as well, add the apples just before serving.

Continue to Content
Yield: 24 Servings

Buttermilk Cupcakes with Caramel Icing

Buttermilk Cupcakes with Caramel Icing - The Foodie Affair

Tender buttermilk cupcakes with caramel icing. Make this an extra special treat with a mini candied apple topping.

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter, unsalted and at room temperture
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup buttermilk

Caramel Icing

  • 1/2 stick (4 ounce) butter, unsalted
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2/3 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted

Candy Apple

  • 12 Crimson Apples
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup light corn syrup
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 4-6 drops red food coloring

Instructions

  • Pre-heat oven at 350 degrees. Line 2 muffin pans with cupcake liners and set aside.
  • In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar together until fluffy. Add eggs one a a time beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla.
  • In a separate medium bowl whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda. Add a third of the flour to the butter mixture alternate with buttermilk. Mix well after each addition. Pour into prepared cupcake pan and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Cool on a wire baking rack.
  • CARAMEL ICING
  • Combine butter, brown sugar and cream in a small saucepan. Over medium heat bring to a boil, stirring constantly ensuring the sugar melts and none is on the bottom of the saucepan. Remove from heat and cool for 10 minutes. On low speed beat in sifted powdered sugar until smooth. Dip each cupcake into the batter and let set.
  • CANDY APPLES
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place clean mini apple on top and set aside.
  • In a small saucepan add sugar, corn syrup and water and cook over medium heat (watch so it closely so it doesn't boil over pan) until a candy thermometer reaches 300 degrees (not more than 310). Remove from heat and stir in food coloring. Using a spear or small pliers (protect your fingers and hands!) dip each apple into the hot candy. Place back on baking sheet and let harden. Place on cupcake or eat plain.
  • Notes

    Insert popsicle sticks (12) into half of the cupcakes for a caramel apple look!

    Nutrition Information:

    Yield:

    24

    Serving Size:

    1

    Amount Per Serving: Calories: 390Total Fat: 11gSaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 52mgSodium: 86mgCarbohydrates: 72gFiber: 3gSugar: 57gProtein: 3g

    Please note that the nutritional information provided are guidelines and may vary based on the brand of products used. For your specific nutritional goals use My Fitness Pal or Verywell Fit recipe calculators. All content within this site is not intended as medical diagnosis or treatment and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical expertise.

    Did you make this recipe?

    If you like this recipe, don't forget to leave a review on the blog or share a photo and tag on @thefoodieaffair on Instagram

    © Sandra Shaffer
    Cuisine: American / Category: Dessert - Cupcakes

    PIN TO YOUR CUPCAKE AND DESSERT BOARDS

    Tender buttermilk cupcakes on a mini cake pedestal topped with caramel icing and candied apple.
    Hugs Sandra Signature

     

    Filed Under: Baking, Dessert Tagged With: Apple, buttermilk, candied apple, caramel, cupcakes, dessert, snack, sweets

    Previous Post: « Thanksgiving Menu Plan
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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. The Food Hunter

      November 17, 2014 at 7:21 am

      very cute!

      Reply
      • Sandra Shaffer

        November 19, 2014 at 10:09 pm

        Thanks, Theresa!

        Reply
    2. christine

      November 17, 2014 at 7:23 am

      I thought for sure that apple was really a fun play w/ a cherry. I’m definitely going to head over to learn about those. I agree, let’s not rush Christmas, let’s enjoy Thanksgiving!

      Reply
      • Sandra Shaffer

        November 19, 2014 at 10:09 pm

        Yep, tiny apples! Pretty wild. Have a wonderful holiday Christine!

        Reply
    3. Dorothy at Shockingly Delicious

      November 17, 2014 at 12:31 pm

      I LOVE what you have done with these Crimson Gold tiny apples! So very creative! Thanks for linking to my article about them. I adore them, too. Now’s the time for them…get them while you can!

      Reply
      • Sandra Shaffer

        November 19, 2014 at 10:05 pm

        Thank you, Dorothy!I wanted to learn more about these adorable tiny apples and was so glad to come across your informative post!

        Reply
    4. Norma Chang

      November 17, 2014 at 2:57 pm

      Cannot recall seeing Crimson Gold apples at my food market but may be they are there I did not notice, will pay attention when next I go shopping. Your cupcakes are so cute.

      Reply
      • Sandra Shaffer

        November 19, 2014 at 10:03 pm

        Thanks, Norma! I think they stood out to me because they were on sale 😉

        Reply
    5. Renee's Kitchen Adventures

      November 17, 2014 at 5:06 pm

      I’m right there with ya, not wanting to move too fast into the cookie season just yet, which is why there is a carrot cake cupcake on my own blog today. Your cupcakes are seriously the cutest! I have never seen mini apples, but what a fun buy!

      Reply
      • Sandra Shaffer

        November 19, 2014 at 10:03 pm

        Once I put the cookie baking into motion I start to think of gift giving and packed parking lots! haha I wish these mini apples were available all year long!

        Reply
    6. Kelly @ TastingPage

      November 17, 2014 at 5:57 pm

      Not only are these stunning, but they look so tasty. The perfect addition to any holiday table!

      Reply
      • Sandra Shaffer

        November 19, 2014 at 10:00 pm

        Thank you, Kelly! When I bought them I thought I would use them as decor, then I tasted it and was surprised by how delicious they are!

        Reply
    7. Mary Ellen

      November 17, 2014 at 6:12 pm

      Love these apples, went and read the article about them. I’m going to see if I can find some!

      Reply
      • Sandra Shaffer

        November 19, 2014 at 9:59 pm

        I hope you can find them Mary Ellen! I can just imagine what your creation will be like!

        Reply
    8. Michelle @ The Complete Savorist

      November 17, 2014 at 7:02 pm

      These look utterly delicious. I’m having a sweet tooth at the moment so would love to have some.

      Reply
      • Sandra Shaffer

        November 19, 2014 at 9:59 pm

        These would definitely hit that craving!

        Reply
    9. erica s

      November 17, 2014 at 7:04 pm

      These apples are adorbs and cupcakes look delicious! I’m with you about not cooking Christmas cookies until it’s actually time. I just published my first pumpkin recipe of the year today lol

      Reply
      • Sandra Shaffer

        November 19, 2014 at 9:58 pm

        Thanks, Erica! Some foods I think we should enjoy all year long, especially pumpkin!

        Reply
    10. Sheena @ Hot Eats and Cool Reads

      November 17, 2014 at 7:18 pm

      Love these cupcakes! And the mini apples?? How fun!!

      Reply
      • Sandra Shaffer

        November 19, 2014 at 9:56 pm

        These cuties sold out quick! I went back to the store for more and they were all gone!

        Reply
    11. Rachael

      November 17, 2014 at 9:33 pm

      I am behind the Pinterest world too, but oh well! I love this, so gorgeous, and 2 in one. Totally awesome.

      Reply
      • Sandra Shaffer

        November 19, 2014 at 9:54 pm

        Yes, two treats! Eat the cupcake now and the candy apple later!

        Reply
    12. Shelby

      November 18, 2014 at 1:35 am

      How adorable are those apples!? Your cupcake looks delicious too, lucky friend!

      Reply
      • Sandra Shaffer

        November 19, 2014 at 9:53 pm

        Thanks, Shelby. I love baking sweets for my friends!

        Reply
    13. Maureen | Orgasmic Chef

      November 18, 2014 at 6:23 am

      I haven’t made buttermilk cupcakes since before you were born. 🙂 I need to get in the kitchen!

      Reply
      • Sandra Shaffer

        November 19, 2014 at 9:53 pm

        You are so funny, Maureen! You could be my sister ! You do share the same name as my little sis!

        Reply
    14. Yvonne [Tried and Tasty]

      November 18, 2014 at 7:02 am

      I’m always behind the blogging trend – I can’t keep up with that always being a season ahead! And you are absolutely right, those apples ARE the cutest things I’ve ever seen! I LOVE all things mini!!!

      Reply
      • Sandra Shaffer

        November 19, 2014 at 9:50 pm

        Isn’t individual sized foods fun to make and eat? I’m glad I’m not alone in the catch-up game of seasonal blogging :0)

        Reply
    15. Carrie @Frugal Foodie Mama

      November 18, 2014 at 11:19 am

      First off- how adorable are those little apples?? Love them! These cupcakes look amazing! 🙂

      Reply
      • Sandra Shaffer

        November 19, 2014 at 9:48 pm

        I have so much fun with mini servings, and couldn’t wait to find a fun recipe for the apples!

        Reply
    16. [email protected] Tastes Good

      November 18, 2014 at 8:44 pm

      I have to try this caramel icing! yummmm

      Reply
      • Sandra Shaffer

        November 19, 2014 at 9:46 pm

        You’ll want to lick the mixing bowl clean once you taste the caramel icing!

        Reply
    17. Choc Chip Uru

      November 19, 2014 at 9:58 pm

      These cupcakes are so cute, they are party perfect 😀

      Cheers
      Choc Chip Uru

      Reply
      • Sandra Shaffer

        November 19, 2014 at 10:14 pm

        Thanks, CCU! I’m super happy with the way these little cute guys baked up!

        Reply
    18. Jillian

      November 20, 2014 at 3:14 am

      These look adorable, perfect for fall.

      Reply
    19. Bam's Kitchen

      November 20, 2014 at 6:26 am

      You always come up with such creative and delicious ideas. This looks so delicious. We sometimes get those little mini apples from Japan. I will have to keep my eyes open for them.

      Reply
    20. LydiaF

      November 20, 2014 at 8:52 am

      The mini apples are awesome! I hope I run across them.

      Reply

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    Hi! My name is Sandra. I’m a health enthusiast, a recipe tweaker, and a wine sipper!! On my website I share my favorite family dishes… some are healthy low carb recipes, some are sinful, but all are delicious!

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