Print

Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting are a cozy fall treat featuring warm spices, tender pumpkin, and a luscious cream cheese frosting. Moist and flavorful, they are perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to seasonal parties or quiet afternoons. Easy to make with simple ingredients, these cupcakes offer customizable flavors and bring the best of autumn into every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Cupcake Ingredients

  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp ground ginger
  • ¼ tsp ground cloves
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Optional: a splash of milk for consistency adjustment

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Batter: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, baking powder, baking soda, salt, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. In another bowl, combine pumpkin puree, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  2. Bake the Cupcakes: Spoon the batter evenly into each cupcake liner, filling about two-thirds full. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
  3. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract and add a little milk if needed to reach desired spreadable consistency.
  4. Frost and Decorate: Using a piping bag or spatula, generously frost the cooled cupcakes. Optionally, top with chopped toasted nuts, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or pumpkin seeds for a festive touch.

Notes

  • Use fresh spices for a more vibrant and aromatic flavor.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep cupcakes light and tender.
  • Allow cupcakes to fully cool before frosting to prevent melting.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese for smooth, lump-free frosting.
  • Test cupcake doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin spice cupcakes, cream cheese frosting, fall desserts, autumn treats, moist cupcakes, easy baking