Crumbling over cupcakes

I ask you, what do you like doing on the weekend? Do you like hanging out with friends? Having a beer? Chilling out? I'm going to assume you answered yes to all those questions, because if you didn't, I'm sorry but we can't be friends. The best we'll be is somewhat acquaintances who nod politely at each other when we meet in public.

So, why do I bring this up? No, I'm not culling my Facebook friends (not before Christmas anyway, are you mad!!). I'm just testing the waters to find out if these cupcakes are for you. They are pretty special, so you'd want to share them with some pretty cool friends. They are great with a beer on a hot afternoon. And they are also great to use as a hearty farewell! These cupcakes were made especially for my friend who was moving jobs - bigger and better things. They are everything a good cupcake should be - moist with layers of flavour, topped smooth frosting and a delightful crunch. ENJOY!

Apple Crumble Cupcakes
3 red delicious apples (or granny smith), peeled and cut into slices
1 tbs brown sugar
1/4 cup water
240g plain flour
3 tsp baking powder
280g caster sugar
pinch salt
80g butter
240ml milk
2 tsps vanilla extract
2 eggs

In a large saucepan over a medium to low heat, add the apples, brown sugar and water. Allow the mixture to slowly simmer until the apples are soft. Remove from heat and mash the apples, then set aside to cool.

Preheat oven to 180 degrees celsius. In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt and butter with an electric beater until it resembles a sandy consistency. Slowly beat in half the milk until the mix just comes together. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the remaining milk, egg and vanilla. Add to the flour mix and beat until smooth. Fold the cooled apple through the mixture. Spoon mixture into cupcake cases and bake for about 20 minutes. When ready, remove from oven and allow to cool completely, then prepare the icing.

Cream Cheese Icing
250g cream cheese
50mL thickened cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
100g icing sugar

Beat together the cream cheese, thickened cream, icing sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Spoon the mixture into a piping bag and ice each cupcake.

Crumble
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup oats
1/3 cup pecans, roughly chopped
90g butter

Add all ingredients together in a bowl and rub the butter through until a crumble forms. Spread the mixture out on a baking tray and pop in the oven (180 to 200 degrees C) for about 15 minutes, or until mixture is golden. Allow to cool and then sprinkle the tops of the cupcakes. ENJOY!