For detailed, illustrated technique instructions about needed tools, assembly, filling, preparing a pastry bag and circle frosting, see our drop-down HOW-TO menu at the top of the page.
Caramel apples...they just scream Halloween party! Here's a version that includes a cupcake too! Take advantage of the beautiful apples that are available this season to make the topping on this cute and delicious cupcake.  ♥ Holly

Caramel Apple Stuffed Cupcakes

BASE
1 spice cake box mix
Eggs  (per box directions)
1 cup of unsweetened apple sauce
1/2 cup of water (or 1/2 of the water listed on the box, whichever is less)

FILLING
1 can of vanilla frosting
2 Tbsp (heaping) of caramel ice cream topping (we used Mrs. Richardson's butterscotch caramel topping)
Additional caramel sauce

TOPPING
2 cans vanilla frosting
2 Tbsp ground cinnamon
1 red apple (we used a Rome apple)
2 Tbsp caramel ice cream topping
1 container red sparkling sugar

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare spice cupcakes by adding eggs per box directions, half of the water called for or 1/2 cup (whichever is less), and one cup of applesauce. Scoop into cupcake tins. Bake for 18 minutes. Insert a toothpick to check for doneness; when it comes out clean, remove from oven. Let cool fully.
2. While cupcakes bake, prepare filling and frosting.  Add 2 Tbsp caramel sauce to 1 can of vanilla frosting for filling, set aside. Add ground cinnamon to 2 cans of frosting and mix well, set aside.
3. Core cooled cupcakes.
4. Put prepared caramel filling in a pastry bag with no tip inserted and cut tip off. Fill cooled cupcakes. Put a dollop of caramel sauce on top of filling in cupcake center.
5. Insert 1M tip into chosen pastry bag. Fill bag with cinnamon frosting, cut opening and circle frost cupcakes.
6. Apply red sparkling sugar around the edge of frosted cupcake.
7. Slice apple, cut in half, and dip in caramel sauce. Place apple wedge onto cupcake and enjoy!  Note: Moisture from the apple wedge will leach into frosting, causing it to slide, if placed too early; add it immediately before serving, or substitute with a dried apple.