Immerse yourself in the quintessential flavors of fall with these Apple Spiced Chai Latte Cupcakes, crowned with a sumptuous browned butter chai frosting. Each cupcake is infused with a rich apple compote and aromatic spices, echoing the beloved chai latte's warmth and depth. The frosting—a creamy blend of browned butter and chai spices—perfectly complements the moist, flavorful base. These cupcakes are not just a treat; they're an experience, ideal for sharing during the cozy autumn months.
Why You'll Love This: If you're a fan of chai lattes, these cupcakes take your favorite beverage and elevate it into a decadent dessert. The blend of apple and chai spices offers a delightful complexity of flavors that perfectly captures the essence of fall. The browned butter in the frosting adds a nutty depth that pairs wonderfully with the spices, making each bite irresistibly rich and satisfying.
Perfect Occasion: These cupcakes are perfect for autumn gatherings, whether it's a Halloween party, a Thanksgiving celebration, or a casual fall evening with friends. They're also fantastic for bake sales and festive gifts, providing a seasonal treat that's sure to impress.
Decoration Tips:
- Dust the frosted cupcakes with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a beautiful, spicy finish.
- Garnish each cupcake with a small cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of crushed chai spices.
- Serve on a rustic platter or wooden board to enhance the autumnal theme.
- Pair with a hot cup of chai latte or spiced apple cider to complement the flavors.
Ingredients:
For the Apple Compote:
- Apples: 1 kg, peeled and thinly sliced
- Brown sugar: 1/2 cup
- Butter: 2 tbsp
- Cinnamon: 2 tbsp
- Cardamom: 1 tbsp
- Ginger: 1 tsp
- Nutmeg: 1/4 tsp
- Water: 1/4 cup
- Lemon juice: 2 tbsp
For the Cupcake:
- Eggs: 2
- Sugar: 3/4 cup
- Vegetable oil: 1/2 cup
- Vanilla extract: 1/2 tsp
- Apple compote: 200g
- All-purpose flour: 1 cup
- Baking powder: 1 tsp
- Baking soda: 1/2 tsp
- Cinnamon: 2 tsp
- Nutmeg: 1 tsp
- Ground cloves: 1/2 tsp
- Ground ginger: 1/4 tsp
- Chai latte powder: 2-3 tbsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
For the Brown Butter Chai Latte Frosting:
- Browned butter: 110g
- Cream cheese: 180g
- Powdered sugar: 1 3/4 cups
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Cinnamon: 1/2 tsp
- Cardamom: 1/2 tsp
- Nutmeg: 1/8 tsp
- Chai latte powder: 3 tbsp
- Salt: pinch
Instructions:
- Prepare the Apple Compote:
- Combine all compote ingredients in a large saucepan and cook on medium-low until soft. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Cool and refrigerate.
- Make the Cupcakes:
- Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Mix eggs, sugar, and spices until fluffy. Incorporate oil and apple compote. Fold in dry ingredients. Spoon into muffin tins and bake for 20-25 minutes. Cool completely.
- Prepare the Frosting:
- Whip the browned butter and cream cheese. Gradually add powdered sugar and remaining ingredients until smooth. Chill for 2-3 hours.
- Assemble:
- Pipe the frosting onto the cupcakes. Garnish with extra cinnamon and cinnamon sticks.
Indulge in these Apple Spiced Chai Latte Cupcakes—a perfect blend of seasonal flavors and comforting spices, guaranteed to warm up your autumn celebrations!