Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Icing

Pumpkin cupcakes are the perfect treat for fall! With their warm spices and moist texture, these “Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Icing” are sure to be a hit.

The rich flavor of pumpkin combined with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger makes these cupcakes a cozy and delicious dessert. What really takes them to the next level is the creamy, tangy cream cheese icing on top.

Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a gathering, or just to enjoy a fall-inspired treat, these cupcakes are easy to make and full of seasonal flavor. They’re the perfect way to bring a taste of autumn to any occasion!

Yield: 12 cupcakes

Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Icing

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These Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Icing are a delicious and festive treat perfect for fall.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 18 minutes

Total Time 38 minutes

Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree

For the Cream Cheese Icing:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (optional, for consistency)

Optional Toppings:

• Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
• A sprinkle of cinnamon
• Pumpkin seeds

Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Electric mixer (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cupcake pan
• Cupcake liners
• Cooling rack
• Piping bags (optional)
• Spatula or piping tip

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract and pumpkin puree.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
8. Remove from the oven and allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
9. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
10. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until combined.
11. Add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
12. If the icing is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk to achieve the desired consistency.
13. Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, spread or pipe the cream cheese icing on top using a spatula or piping bag.
14. Add optional toppings like chopped nuts, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or pumpkin seeds for a festive touch.

Notes

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Pumpkin Cupcakes

• Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smoother batter and frosting.
• Do not overmix the batter to avoid dense cupcakes.
• Cool the cupcakes completely before frosting to prevent the icing from melting.

Did you make this recipe?

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Variations and Customizations

Add a handful of chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for extra texture.

Try using maple extract instead of vanilla for a unique twist on the cream cheese icing. Top with a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these pumpkin cupcakes at fall gatherings, holiday dinners, or as an everyday autumn treat. Pair with a cup of hot apple cider, tea, or coffee for a cozy experience.

Storage and Shelf Life

Store the cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Wrapping it up

These Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Icing are a delicious and festive treat perfect for fall. The warm spices and creamy frosting make them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

I hope you enjoy baking and sharing these as much as I do!

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