The Apple Spice Cake

Yield: 24 cupcakes
Prep Time:  25 minutes
Bake Time:  30 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

4 medium Gala apples, shredded or finely chopped

2 1/2 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/2 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
2 cups sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
3/4 cup buttermilk

1.  Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.  Line cupcake tins with paper cups.

2.  In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and ginger.  Set aside.

3.  In a large mixing bowl, add the butter and beat on high speed until light and fluffy.  About 2 - 3 minutes.  Add in the sugar and vanilla and beat until the mixture for another 2 minutes.  Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each one.  Turn off the mixture and scrape down the sides of the bowl.

4.   Turn the mixture on low speed and slowly pour in the buttermilk.  Mix until well combined.  Slowly add in the flour mixture until well combined.  Finally, add in the shredded or finely chopped apples, and mix well.

5.  Fill the cupcake tins about 3/4 full, and bake for about 25 - 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.  Allow cupcakes to cool on a rack.