Apple and cinnamon cupcakes

I know that it is January and after the excesses of Christmas, I had planned to reduce the amount of sugar that we are eating. So far it has been rather unsuccessful and there seems to always been a new cake recipe to try!

I have been commissioned to make some cupcakes for our mother and baby group so went in search of a recipe that didn't contain too much sugar and that could be eaten with or without frosting for younger palates. 

Apple and cinnamon cupcakes - makes 18 cupcakes 

 adapted from gourmet.com

FOR the cupCAKEs

• 1 apple, finely chopped and covered
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
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• 4oz (120g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3oz (80g,1/2 cup) packed light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 8 oz (230gr, 1 1/2 cups) applesauce (I made mine using two apples, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 brown sugar and a splash of orange juice)
• 8 3/4oz (250g, 2 cups) all-purpose flour 
• 4 teaspoons (2x 10g sachet)baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
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FOR the FROSTING

• 5 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 10oz (280g,2 cups) icing sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Preheat the oven to 170°C and prepare 12 cupcake cases in a tin. 

MAKING THE CAKE

1.Combine the apple with the 1/2 teaspoon of  cinnamon and a tablespoon of brown sugar. Stir and set aside. 

2. In a mixer, whisk the butter and sugar on a hight speed until light and fluffy. Then add the eggs one at a time, beating until well combined. (top tip: adding a tablespoon of flour with each egg will help to avoid the mixture splitting)

3. Add the applesauce and vanilla.

4. Sift flour, baking powder, salt and spices and slowly add on a low speed to the wet mixture until just combined. 

5. Add the apple pieces to the mixture.

6. Fill the cupcake cases about 2/3 full and bake for 15 mins or until a toothpick comes out clean. 

7. Leave the cupcakes to cool thoroughly.

MAKING THE FROSTING

1. Combine all the ingredients in a mixer and mix on a medium speed until combined. 

2. Increase the speed to high and beat for an additional 5 minutes. 

3. Frost your cupcakes in your preferred style.