Fall Inspired Apple Spiced Chai Latte Cupcakes with Brown Butter Frosting

Dive into the quintessential flavors of fall with these Apple Spiced Chai Latte Cupcakes, topped with a sumptuous brown butter chai frosting. Each cupcake is infused with rich applesauce and aromatic spices, echoing the warmth and depth of the beloved chai latte. The frosting, a creamy blend of brown butter and chai spices, perfectly complements the moist, flavorful base. These cupcakes aren’t just a treat; they’re an experience, perfect for sharing during the cozy fall months.

Why you'll love this: If you’re a fan of chai lattes, these cupcakes transform your favorite beverage into a decadent dessert. The blend of apple and chai spices offers a delicious complexity of flavors that perfectly captures the essence of fall. The brown butter in the frosting adds a nutty depth that pairs beautifully with the spices, making each bite irresistibly rich and satisfying.

Perfect opportunity: These cupcakes are perfect for fall gatherings, whether it's a Halloween party, Thanksgiving celebration, or a casual fall night with friends. They're also fantastic for bake sales and party favors, providing a seasonal treat that's sure to impress.

Decorating tips:

• Sprinkle the frosted cupcakes with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a nice spicy finish.
• Garnish each cupcake with a small cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of crushed chai spice.
• Serve on a rustic platter or wooden board to enhance the fall theme.
• Pair it with a cup of hot chai latte or spiced apple cider to round out the flavors.

Ingredients:

For the applesauce:

• Apples: 1 kg, peeled and cut into thin slices
• Brown sugar: 1/2 cup
• Butter: 2 tablespoons
• Cinnamon: 2 tablespoons
• Cardamom: 1 tablespoon
• Ginger: 1 teaspoon
• Nutmeg: 1/4 tsp
• Water: 1/4 cup
• Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons

For the Cupcake:

• Eggs: 2
• Sugar: 3/4 cup
• Vegetable oil: 1/2 cup
• Vanilla extract: 1/2 teaspoon
• Apple compote: 200g
• All-purpose flour: 1 cup
• Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
• Baking soda: 1/2 teaspoon
• Cinnamon: 2 teaspoons
• Nutmeg: 1 teaspoon
• Ground cloves: 1/2 teaspoon
• Ground ginger: 1/4 tsp
• Chai latte powder: 2 to 3 tablespoons
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon

For the brown butter and chai latte frosting:

• Hazelnut butter: 110g
• Cream cheese: 180g
• Powdered sugar: 1 3/4 cups
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
• Cinnamon: 1/2 teaspoon
• Cardamom: 1/2 teaspoon
• Nutmeg: 1/8 tsp
• Chai latte powder: 3 tablespoons
• Salt: pinch

Instructions:

1. Prepare the applesauce:
   • Combine all compote ingredients in a large saucepan and cook over medium-low heat until tender. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Let cool and refrigerate.
2. Prepare the cupcakes:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Beat together eggs, sugar and spices until fluffy. Stir in oil and applesauce. Stir in dry ingredients. Pour into muffin tins and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Let cool completely.

3. Prepare the icing:
   • Beat the hazelnut butter and cream cheese. Gradually add the icing sugar and the rest of the ingredients until smooth. Refrigerate for 2 to 3 hours.
4. Assemble:
   • Pipe frosting onto cupcakes. Decorate with additional cinnamon and cinnamon sticks.

Indulge in these Apple Spice Chai Latte Cupcakes, a perfect blend of seasonal flavors and comforting spices that are sure to warm up your fall celebrations!