Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy treat that perfectly captures the flavors of fall, look no further than these Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting. Each bite delivers tender, moist cupcake infused with warm pumpkin pie spices, topped with a luxuriously smooth cream cheese frosting that adds just the right touch of tangy sweetness. This recipe is a celebration of everything pumpkin and spice, wrapped up in a cupcake that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or just because, these cupcakes bring that comforting, homey feeling straight to your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but essential, combining to create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures in your Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting. Each plays its part, from the cake flour that ensures softness, to the pumpkin puree that brings moisture and that signature autumn taste.

• Cake flour (1 1/2 cups): Provides a light, tender crumb perfect for cupcakes; measure carefully for best results.
• Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Adds balanced sweetness to the batter.
• Light brown sugar (1/4 cup): Brings subtle molasses notes that deepen the flavor.
• Pumpkin pie spice (1 tablespoon): The magical blend that fills the cupcakes with warm, aromatic spice.
• Baking powder (2 teaspoons): Helps the cupcakes rise beautifully and stay fluffy.
• Fine sea salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the sweet and spicy flavors.
• Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, cubed, room temperature): Creates a luscious texture in the batter.
• Pumpkin puree (1/2 cup): The heart of the cupcake, adding moisture and rich pumpkin flavor.
• Large eggs (2, room temperature): Adds structure and richness.
• Vegetable oil (1/3 cup): Keeps the cupcakes moist and tender.
• Whole milk (1/3 cup, room temperature): Balances the batter’s richness with creaminess.
• Molasses (1 1/2 tablespoons): Adds depth and a hint of smoky sweetness.
• Vanilla bean paste (1 teaspoon): Infuses subtle vanilla warmth, elevating the flavors.
• Granulated sugar for coating (3/4 cup): Combined with spices to add delightful crunch on the cupcake’s edges.
• Pumpkin spice for coating (1 teaspoon): Enhances the cinnamon and nutmeg notes in the sugar coating.
• Cinnamon for coating (1 teaspoon): Adds a classic spice touch to the coating.
• Unsalted butter for frosting (1 cup, room temperature): Creates the silky base of the cream cheese frosting.
• Full-fat cream cheese (8 oz, cold): Provides that rich, tangy creaminess.
• Powdered sugar (3 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfection.
• Heavy cream (1 tablespoon): Lightens the frosting for a fluffy finish.
• Vanilla bean paste for frosting (1 teaspoon): Adds a lovely vanilla aroma and flavor to the frosting.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lining a metal cupcake pan with 12 liners. This sets the stage for perfectly baked cupcakes that won’t stick.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In your stand mixer bowl, whisk together the cake flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and fine sea salt. Mixing the dry ingredients first ensures an even distribution of the spices and rise agents, which is key for uniform flavor and texture.

Step 3: Incorporate the Butter

Add the cubed room temperature butter to the dry mix and blend on low speed until the mixture looks like coarse sand. This technique creates a tender crumb by coating the flour with fat, allowing the cupcakes to bake up soft and moist.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, vegetable oil, whole milk, molasses, and vanilla bean paste until smooth. Each ingredient adds moisture, richness, and depth—never underestimate the impact of molasses here!

Step 5: Bring the Batter Together

Slowly mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are totally fine and actually help keep the cupcakes delicate.

Step 6: Bake the Cupcakes

Scoop the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about three-quarters full. Bake for 18 to 25 minutes, or until a light touch on top bounces back. The wait will be worth it when you pull out those golden, fragrant cupcakes.

Step 7: Coat with Spiced Sugar

While the cupcakes cool, mix the sugar, pumpkin spice, and cinnamon for the coating. When the cupcakes are barely warm, remove the liners and gently roll the sides and bottoms in the spiced sugar mixture. This step adds a fun crunchy contrast that makes these cupcakes stand out.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Using a stand mixer, cream the butter until light and fluffy, then blend in the cold cream cheese on low speed until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until the frosting is fluffy and creamy. Finish by mixing in the heavy cream and vanilla bean paste for extra silkiness.

Step 9: Frost and Finish

Pipe generous swirls of the cream cheese frosting on top of each cupcake using a large round tip. For an extra touch of flair and flavor, roll the edges of the frosting-coated cupcakes in the spiced sugar. If you want, pop them back into fresh liners for a clean presentation.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

These cupcakes are already a showstopper, but if you want to elevate them, try sprinkling chopped toasted pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon on top. You could also add a tiny cinnamon stick or a small dollop of whipped cream for an extra cozy touch.

Side Dishes

Pair these cupcakes with a warm beverage like spiced chai tea, apple cider, or a creamy latte for a quintessential fall experience. For a savory contrast, a simple cheese platter or roasted nuts can complement the sweet and spicy flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation can really make these Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting stand out. Arrange them on a rustic wooden board with autumn leaves for a festive vibe, or serve them in clear glass cloches to showcase the delicate spiced sugar coating. Wrapping a small ribbon around each cupcake liner also adds a charming homemade gift feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once frosted, store these cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh. They will stay moist and delicious for up to 3 days, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for parties or snacks.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw fully before frosting and decorating. If you want to freeze frosted cupcakes, freeze them uncovered first, then wrap loosely to avoid damaging the frosting.

Reheating

To enjoy these cupcakes at their best after storage, bring refrigerated cupcakes to room temperature before eating so the frosting softens slightly. Avoid microwaving as it can affect texture, especially of the cream cheese frosting.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly in this recipe and is an easy substitute that still delivers rich pumpkin flavor and moisture.

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes, by swapping the cake flour for a high-quality gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, you can enjoy a gluten-free version without compromising texture.

How long does the cream cheese frosting keep?

The frosting stays fresh for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Always check for any off smells or color changes before using.

Can I add nuts to the batter?

Sure! Chopped walnuts or pecans work beautifully in this recipe, adding a lovely crunch and complementing the warm spices.

Is there a way to make these cupcakes less sweet?

You can reduce the sugar slightly in both the batter and frosting if you prefer a less sweet cupcake, but be cautious not to omit too much as sugar plays a key role in texture and moisture.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting truly capture the spirit of the season with every bite. Baking them fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas, and sharing them feels like giving a warm hug to those you care about. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe—you might just discover your new favorite fall dessert to enjoy all season long!

Print