Follow these easy steps to create your Apple Pie Cupcakes:

1. Prepare the Apple Filling:
– In a medium bowl, combine diced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Toss until the apples are coated. Set aside.

2. Preheat the Oven:
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with cupcake liners.

3. Make the Cupcake Batter:
– In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
– Beat in the eggs one at a time until well combined, then mix in the buttermilk and vanilla extract.

4. Combine the Dry Ingredients:
– In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

5. Mix the Dry and Wet Ingredients:
– Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are fine.

6. Fill the Cupcake Liners:
– Spoon a small amount of cupcake batter into each liner (about 1/3 full), then add a spoonful of the apple filling on top of the batter. Top with more batter until the liners are about two-thirds full.

7. Bake the Cupcakes:
– Place the cupcake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool the Cupcakes:
– Remove the pan from the oven and let the cupcakes cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Afterward, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

9. Prepare the Cinnamon Frosting:
– In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until well blended.
– Add heavy cream, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Beat until fluffy and smooth.

10. Frost the Cupcakes:
– Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, use a piping bag to frost each cupcake generously with the cinnamon frosting.

11. Serve:
– Enjoy your delicious Apple Pie Cupcakes with family and friends!