Go Back
As the crisp air settles in and the leaves begin to change, there’s an unmistakable shift in the culinary landscape. Autumn is upon us, and with it comes the beloved pumpkin spice flavor that captures the essence of the season. Whether it’s the familiar taste of a pumpkin spice latte or a slice of pumpkin pie, these flavors evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth, making them a quintessential part of fall traditions. Among the myriad ways to enjoy this seasonal spice blend, one standout treat is the Heavenly Pumpkin Spice Cupcake.

Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Get ready to indulge in the flavors of fall with these Heavenly Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes! Perfect for cozy gatherings or a sweet treat at home, these cupcakes feature a delightful blend of pumpkin and warming spices, topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. Their fluffy texture and rich taste will evoke seasonal nostalgia and warmth, making them an essential part of your autumn celebrations. Dive into this step-by-step guide to create these irresistible fall delights!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the Cupcakes:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground ginger

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

¼ teaspoon ground cloves

½ teaspoon salt

¾ cup granulated sugar

¾ cup packed brown sugar

½ cup vegetable oil

3 large eggs

1 cup pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

4 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)

A pinch of salt

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a muffin tin by lining it with colorful cupcake liners.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and the aromatic spices: cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Add in the salt, and mix well to combine everything evenly. Set this mixture aside.

      Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, blend the granulated sugar and brown sugar together with the vegetable oil until the mixture is smooth. Add in the eggs one at a time, ensuring they are well incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract, beating until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.

        Mix Wet & Dry Mixtures: Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing; a few lumps will result in a delightfully tender cupcake.

          Fill Cupcake Liners: Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full to allow for rising.

            Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Once baked, remove the cupcakes from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

              Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting: In a clean mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until the mixture is light and fluffy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until you achieve a smooth, spreadable consistency.

                Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, generously spread the cream cheese frosting on top of each cupcake using a spatula or pipe it on with a decorative piping bag for a beautiful finish.

                  Garnish (optional): For a charming touch, sprinkle a dash of cinnamon on top or add some festive seasonal sprinkles to elevate the visual appeal.

                    Serve and Enjoy: Share your delightful Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes adorned with Cream Cheese Frosting with friends and family, or savor them all for yourself – we won't tell!

                      Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 12 cupcakes