Caramel Apple Cupcakes

It's that time of year again and I. am. so. excited.  I love Fall and Winter baking...pumpkins, apples, and lots of spice! 

My first "Fall" recipe this year is Caramel Apple Cupcakes.  I saw a picture from one of the local bakeries here in Austin for their Caramel Apple cupcakes and decided to try my own version.  Unfortunately, I can't share the exact recipe I used with you for the cake because of a secret project, but I've browsed a couple of recipes so that I can share links with you and hopefully you'll find a recipe you love!  

I started with an apple spice cupcake and topped it with homemade cream cheese frosting.  

After icing the cupcakes, I put them in the fridge for 2 hours so the frosting would harden a little.  I melted Kraft Caramel Bits according to package directions, then quickly dipped the cupcakes into the hot caramel sauce and placed back into the fridge to cool. 

For decoration, I cut candy lollipop sticks in half and tied a little twine bow around them.  Too cute!

Here are some links to some apple spice cupcakes recipes!
Caramel Apple Cupcakes from Juneberry Lane
Caramel Apple Cupcakes from justJenn
Caramel Apple Cupcakes from Your Cup of Cake

Happy Baking!

Cream Cheese Frosting
2 sticks butter, room temperature
1 package cream cheese, room temperature
6-8 cups powdered sugar
1 tbsp vanilla

Cream butter and cream cheese together until smooth.  Add vanilla. Add in 1 cup of powdered sugar at a time until desired consistency.