Baked Apple Pie Cupcakes with Cinnamon Buttercream Frosting

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven and bake the yellow cake mix according to package directions to make 24 cupcakes. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely.

2. 2

   In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped apples and brown sugar, then cook and stir until the apples are tender, about 10-12 minutes. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth, then stir it into the apple mixture. Bring to a boil and cook, stirring, until thickened, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and let the apple filling cool completely.

3. 3

   Using a paring knife, cut a 1-inch wide cone-shaped piece from the top of each cupcake and discard the removed portion. Fill the cavity of each cupcake with the cooled apple filling.

4. 4

   In a large bowl, combine the softened butter, confectioners' sugar, heavy whipping cream, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Frost the filled cupcakes. If desired, top with thinly sliced apples.