Irresistible Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes

Irresistible Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes combine the warm spices of pumpkin pie with the lightness of a cupcake, making them a perfect treat for fall gatherings or any occasion. Topped with creamy frosting, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1-2 tablespoons milk, as needed

Directions

Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.

Mix Dry Ingredients

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.

Combine Wet Ingredients

3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine and Mix

4. Combine and Mix: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Fill Cupcake Liners

5. Fill Cupcake Liners: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.

Bake

6. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely.

Prepare Frosting

7. Prepare Frosting: For the cream cheese frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until combined. Add milk as needed to reach the desired consistency.

Frost and Garnish

8. Frost and Garnish: Frost the cooled cupcakes with the cream cheese frosting. For a festive touch, you can sprinkle additional cinnamon on top if desired.

Enjoy

Delight in your delicious pumpkin pie cupcakes!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 cupcakes. The total time required for preparation and baking is about 35 minutes, including 15 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking time.

Variations

• Nutty Add-ins: Stir in chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the frosted cupcakes for a decadent touch.
• Spice Swap: Adjust the spices to your liking; try adding cloves or allspice for more depth.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
   Yes, but reduce the sugar and spices since pumpkin pie filling is already sweetened and spiced.
2. Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?
   Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
3. How can I make the cupcakes more moist?
   Adding a tablespoon of applesauce can increase moisture without altering the flavor.
4. What if I don’t have cream cheese?
   You can use mascarpone cheese or a buttercream frosting instead.
5. Can I freeze these cupcakes?
   Yes, freeze them without frosting. Thaw before adding frosting.
6. How do I know when the cupcakes are done?
   A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
7. What can I serve with these cupcakes?
   They pair nicely with coffee, chai tea, or spiced cider.
8. Can I add frosting flavors?
   Yes, you can add spices or flavor extracts to the frosting for variety.
9. What can I do if my cupcakes are sinking in the middle?
   This may be due to overmixing or not baking long enough; make sure to check the bake time.
10. Can I use a different frosting?
    Absolutely! A simple vanilla buttercream or whipped cream would work well too.

Conclusion

Irresistible Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes are a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of fall in a convenient form. With their moist texture, spiced flavor, and creamy frosting, these cupcakes are sure to be a favorite among family and friends. Enjoy making and sharing this sweet treat!

Print