Apple Pie Buttercream Frosting

Dolce Flav

Rated 5.0 stars by 1 users

Author:

Dolce Flav

Servings

12

Prep Time

0 minutes

Cook Time

10 minutes

This Apple Pie Buttercream Frosting is creamy, fluffy, and packed with the warm flavors of apple and cinnamon, evoking the classic taste of homemade apple pie. Using apple extract and a touch of cinnamon, this frosting is perfect for cupcakes, cakes, or cookies during fall or holiday seasons. Its light golden hue complements spiced or vanilla cakes beautifully, while its smooth texture allows for easy spreading or piping. Quick and easy to make, this frosting brings the cozy, nostalgic flavor of apple pie directly to your desserts.

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
3–4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
1–2 teaspoons apple extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of salt

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Directions

Beat Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter for 2–3 minutes until creamy and pale.
Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low speed at first, then medium speed until smooth and fluffy.
Add Flavoring: Mix in apple extract, ground cinnamon, and optional vanilla extract. Taste and adjust flavor intensity as desired.
Adjust Consistency: Add heavy cream or milk, one tablespoon at a time, until frosting reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
Add Salt: Include a pinch of salt to balance sweetness.
Frost and Decorate: Use immediately to frost cupcakes, cakes, or cookies. Chill briefly if firmer piping is needed for decorative designs.

Recipe Note

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Name: Apple Pie Buttercream Frosting
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened; 3–4 cups powdered sugar, sifted; 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk; 1–2 teaspoons apple extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional); Pinch of salt

1. Can I make this frosting ahead of time?

Yes — store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Re-whip before using.

2. Can I freeze this frosting?

Yes — freeze up to 2 months. Thaw and re-whip before frosting.

3. Can I adjust sweetness?

Yes — reduce powdered sugar slightly or add more cream for a milder taste.

4. Can I use salted butter?

Yes — skip the added pinch of salt if using salted butter.

5. Can I make it vegan?

Use plant-based butter and non-dairy milk or cream; texture may be slightly softer.

6. Can I pipe this frosting?

Yes — it holds shape well for swirls, rosettes, and decorative designs.

7. Can I fold in mix-ins?

Yes — fold in finely chopped apple pieces (lightly cooked) or caramel bits for extra texture.

8. How do I make the apple flavor stronger?

Increase apple extract slightly, tasting as you go to avoid overpowering.

9. Can I use this as a cake filling?

Yes — it’s stable enough for layered cakes or cupcakes.

10. Can I color it differently?

Yes — add a touch of yellow or light brown gel coloring for a more apple-pie-inspired look.