Name: Homemade Pumpkin Cupcakes Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Cupcakes:; 2 eggs; 1¼ cups granulated sugar; 1 cup pumpkin puree; ¾ cup Vegetable Oil; 1½ cups all purpose flour; 1 tsp Baking Soda; ½ tsp baking powder; 1½ tsp pumpkin pie spice; ½ tsp vanilla extract; ¼ tsp salt; Cooking spray; For Frosting:; ½ cup butter; 8 oz cream cheese; 4½ cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 12 candy pumpkins

Dive into the delightful world of baking with these homemade pumpkin cupcakes. Bursting with rich pumpkin flavor and topped with a velvety cream cheese frosting, these cupcakes are the perfect treat for fall get-togethers or any time you're craving something sweet and seasonal.

Photos of Homemade Pumpkin Cupcakes Recipe

Most of the ingredients for these pumpkin cupcakes are likely already in your pantry. Pumpkin puree, often used in holiday recipes, is the key ingredient that may not be a pantry staple. You can find it in the baking aisle of most supermarkets. Similarly, pumpkin pie spice, a blend of warm, aromatic spices, is also vital to achieving the classic pumpkin flavor. Although it's commonly available in stores, you can make your own blend with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.

Ingredients for Homemade Pumpkin Cupcakes

Eggs: Provide structure and stability in baking, and add moisture to the cupcakes.

Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes and aids in browning.

Pumpkin puree: Adds flavor and moisture to the cupcakes.

Vegetable oil: Helps to keep the cupcakes moist.

All purpose flour: The main dry ingredient that provides structure to the cupcakes.

Baking soda and baking powder: Leavening agents that help the cupcakes rise.

Pumpkin pie spice: Gives the cupcakes a warm, autumnal flavor.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the cupcakes.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the cupcakes.

Butter and cream cheese: Create a rich, creamy base for the frosting.

Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.

Candy pumpkins: Serve as a fun and festive garnish.

One reader, Gabby Jewett says:

These homemade pumpkin cupcakes are a game-changer! The moist and flavorful cupcakes paired with the creamy frosting are simply divine. The pumpkin spice adds a warm, comforting touch. I couldn't resist having more than one! A definite must-try for any pumpkin lover.

Gabby Jewett

Techniques Required for Making Homemade Pumpkin Cupcakes

How to bake the cupcakes: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and coat a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray or use paper liners. Divide the batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until lightly browned and a toothpick inserted in the center of a cupcake comes out clean.

How to make the frosting: Place the butter and cream cheese in the bowl of a mixer and mix for 2 to 3 minutes until light and fluffy. Add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, then mix on low speed until combined. Add the vanilla extract and mix for 30 seconds. If the frosting is too thick, add 1 teaspoon of milk at a time until the desired consistency is reached.

How to decorate the cupcakes: Place the frosting in a piping bag fitted with a decorative tip. Pipe the frosting on the cupcakes, then top each cupcake with a candy pumpkin.

How To Make Homemade Pumpkin Cupcakes

Whip up your own pumpkin cupcakes this fall with our easy-to-follow recipe! It comes with sweet cream cheese frosting for a tastier cupcake.

Preparation: 25 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Cupcakes:

2eggs
1¼cupsgranulated sugar
1cuppumpkin puree
¾cupvegetable oil
1½cupsall purpose flour
1tspbaking soda
½tspbaking powder
1½tsppumpkin pie spice
½tspvanilla extract
¼tspsalt
cooking spray

For Frosting:

½cupbutter,softened
8ozcream cheese,softened
4½cupspowdered sugar
1tspvanilla extract
12candy pumpkins,optional garnish

Instructions

Cupcakes:

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Coat a 12 cup muffin tin with cooking spray, or use paper liners.
Place the eggs, sugar, pumpkin puree and oil in a bowl. Whisk until smooth.
Add the flour, baking soda, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract and salt to the bowl. Stir until just combined.
Divide the batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups.
Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until lightly browned and a toothpick inserted in the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
Cool for 5 minutes in the pan, then transfer the cupcakes to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting:

Place the butter and cream cheese in the bowl of a mixer, then mix for 2 to 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, then mix on low speed until combined.
Add the vanilla extract, then mix for 30 seconds.
If the frosting is too thick, add 1 teaspoon of milk at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Place the frosting in a piping bag fitted with a decorative tip.
Pipe the frosting on the cupcakes, then top each cupcake with a candy pumpkin.
Serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1145.29kcal
Fat: 47.90g
Saturated Fat: 11.58g
Trans Fat: 0.42g
Monounsaturated Fat: 25.16g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 8.12g
Carbohydrates: 180.50g
Fiber: 8.40g
Sugar: 106.82g
Protein: 18.71g
Cholesterol: 67.79mg
Sodium: 278.98mg
Calcium: 357.47mg
Potassium: 5098.54mg
Iron: 13.07mg
Vitamin A: 6566.40µg
Vitamin C: 133.21mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Homemade Pumpkin Cupcakes

When making the pumpkin cupcakes, ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature before you start. This is especially important for the butter and cream cheese used in the frosting. Cold butter and cream cheese will not blend well, resulting in a lumpy frosting. Taking them out of the refrigerator an hour before you start baking will allow them to warm up to room temperature, ensuring a smoother, creamier frosting.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Pumpkin Cupcakes

Prep ahead: Prepare the pumpkin puree and frosting a day in advance to save time on the day of baking.

One-bowl method: Use one bowl to mix all the cupcake ingredients for easy cleanup and less time spent washing dishes.

Quick frosting: Use a piping bag to quickly and neatly frost the cupcakes, saving time compared to spreading frosting with a knife.

Efficient baking: Place multiple cupcake trays in the oven at once to bake more cupcakes in a single batch, saving time and energy.

Organized workspace: Set up all ingredients and tools in an organized manner before starting to bake for a smoother and faster process.

Time-saving tools: Use an electric mixer for both the cupcake batter and frosting to speed up the mixing process and achieve a smoother consistency.

Substitute Ingredients For Homemade Pumpkin Cupcakes Recipe

eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a substitute for eggs in baking to reduce the fat content and make the cupcakes more moist.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a healthier alternative to granulated sugar, providing a slightly caramel-like flavor to the cupcakes.
vegetable oil - Substitute with unsweetened applesauce: Unsweetened applesauce can be used as a healthier alternative to vegetable oil, reducing the fat content while keeping the cupcakes moist.
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can be used as a healthier alternative to all-purpose flour, adding a nutty flavor and more nutrients to the cupcakes.
baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: If you run out of baking soda, you can use baking powder as a substitute, but you may need to adjust the quantity.
pumpkin pie spice - Substitute with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves: If you don't have pumpkin pie spice, you can use a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to achieve a similar flavor profile.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative to cream cheese for the frosting, providing a tangy flavor and creamy texture.
powdered sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a natural sweetener instead of powdered sugar for the frosting, adding a rich, caramel-like flavor.

Best Way to Present Pumpkin Cupcakes

Elevate the cupcake presentation: When plating the cupcakes, ensure they are arranged neatly and symmetrically on a clean, white plate. The presentation should be visually appealing and inviting, creating a sense of anticipation for the diners.
Incorporate artistic frosting techniques: Utilize piping techniques to create intricate and visually stunning designs on the cupcakes. This could include delicate swirls, floral patterns, or other decorative elements that showcase precision and artistry.
Utilize seasonal garnishes: Incorporate seasonal elements such as small decorative gourds, edible flowers, or delicate chocolate leaves to add a touch of elegance and seasonal relevance to the presentation.
Create a harmonious color palette: Pay attention to the color scheme of the cupcakes and the frosting. Aim for a cohesive and visually pleasing color palette that complements the flavors and evokes a sense of sophistication.
Incorporate height and dimension: Consider adding varying heights to the presentation by using pedestals or tiered displays. This adds visual interest and creates a dynamic presentation that captures attention.
Emphasize precision and attention to detail: Ensure that each cupcake is meticulously frosted and garnished with care, demonstrating a commitment to excellence and culinary craftsmanship.
Highlight the seasonal theme: Incorporate elements that evoke the essence of autumn, such as rustic wooden accents, seasonal foliage, or other thematic decorations that enhance the overall presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Homemade Pumpkin Cupcakes

Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and mixing the cupcake batter.
Muffin tin: A muffin tin is used to bake the cupcakes and ensures they maintain their shape.
Whisk: A whisk is used to blend the eggs, sugar, pumpkin puree, and oil together until smooth.
Measuring cups and spoons: These are used to accurately measure the ingredients for the cupcakes and frosting.
Spatula: A spatula is used to scrape down the sides of the mixing bowl and ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Electric mixer: An electric mixer is used to cream the butter and cream cheese for the frosting until light and fluffy.
Piping bag with decorative tip: This tool is used to pipe the frosting onto the cupcakes, giving them a decorative finish.
Toothpick: A toothpick is used to check the doneness of the cupcakes by inserting it into the center to see if it comes out clean.
Cooking spray: Cooking spray is used to coat the muffin tin, preventing the cupcakes from sticking.
Oven: The oven is used to bake the cupcakes at the specified temperature until they are fully cooked.

How To Store and Freeze Homemade Pumpkin Cupcakes

Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the cupcakes soggy.
To store the cupcakes at room temperature, place them in an airtight container. They will keep for up to 3 days.
If you want to store the cupcakes in the refrigerator, place them in an airtight container. They will keep for up to 5 days. However, keep in mind that the refrigerator can dry out the cupcakes, so they may not be as moist as when they were first baked.
To freeze the cupcakes, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to eat the frozen cupcakes, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour. You can also thaw them in the refrigerator overnight.
If you want to freeze the cupcakes with the frosting already on them, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until the frosting is firm. Then, wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
When you're ready to eat the frozen cupcakes with frosting, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour. The frosting may not be as smooth as when it was first applied, but it will still taste delicious.

How To Reheat Leftover Pumpkin Cupcakes

The best way to reheat leftover pumpkin cupcakes is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cupcakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through. This method will help restore the cupcakes' texture and flavor, making them taste almost as good as freshly baked ones.
Another option is to use a microwave. Place the cupcake on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for 10-15 seconds at a time, checking after each interval to avoid overheating. Be careful not to microwave the cupcakes for too long, as this can cause them to become rubbery or tough.
If you want to maintain the moistness of your leftover pumpkin cupcakes, you can try steaming them. Fill a pot with a small amount of water and bring it to a simmer. Place the cupcakes in a steamer basket above the water, cover the pot, and steam for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. This gentle reheating method will help keep the cupcakes soft and moist.
For a quick and easy reheating option, you can also wrap the cupcakes in aluminum foil and place them in a preheated toaster oven for 3-5 minutes. This method will help keep the cupcakes moist while warming them through.
If you have frosted your pumpkin cupcakes with cream cheese frosting, it's best to remove the frosting before reheating, as it may melt or become runny. You can easily scrape off the frosting with a butter knife, reheat the cupcakes using one of the above methods, and then re-frost them once they have cooled down again.

Random Fact About Pumpkin Cupcakes

The pumpkin in the homemade pumpkin cupcakes is a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It's also low in calories, making it a healthy addition to your diet.

Is Making Pumpkin Cupcakes at Home Economical?

The homemade pumpkin cupcakes recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as pumpkin puree and flour, are affordable and readily available. The frosting ingredients, including butter and cream cheese, may be slightly more expensive, but the recipe yields a generous amount of cupcakes. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $10-$15, making it a budget-friendly dessert option. Overall, this recipe is a solid 9/10 for its affordability and delightful flavor.

Are Homemade Pumpkin Cupcakes Healthy or Unhealthy?

This pumpkin cupcake recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The high amounts of sugar, oil, and cream cheese frosting contribute to a dessert that is high in calories, fat, and added sugars. The recipe lacks whole grains, fiber, and nutritional value from fruits or vegetables (aside from the small amount of pumpkin puree).

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of sugar in the cupcake batter and frosting, or use a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey
Replace some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour to increase fiber content
Swap out the vegetable oil for a healthier fat source, such as coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce
Decrease the amount of cream cheese and butter in the frosting, or opt for a lighter topping like whipped cream or Greek yogurt
Incorporate additional spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to enhance flavor without added sugar
Top the cupcakes with a sprinkle of chopped nuts or seeds for added crunch and nutrition

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced treat that still satisfies your sweet tooth. Remember, moderation is key when enjoying indulgent desserts like these pumpkin cupcakes.

Editor's Thoughts on This Pumpkin Cupcake Recipe

The homemade pumpkin cupcakes recipe is a delightful treat that perfectly captures the flavors of fall. The moist and tender cupcakes are infused with warm spices and the creamy frosting adds a luscious touch. The use of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice creates a rich and aromatic flavor profile, while the candy pumpkin on top adds a festive and playful element. This recipe is a wonderful way to celebrate the season and is sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Enhance Your Homemade Pumpkin Cupcakes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Create a creamy and flavorful side dish that complements the sweetness of the pumpkin cupcakes.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Add a savory and tangy side dish to balance out the richness of the cupcakes.

Cranberry Pecan Quinoa Salad: Offer a light and refreshing side dish with a hint of sweetness and crunch to contrast the cupcakes.

Honey Sriracha Glazed Carrots: Provide a sweet and spicy side dish that adds a kick of flavor to the meal.

Butternut Squash and Sage Risotto: Serve a creamy and comforting side dish that pairs well with the warm spices of the cupcakes.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Pumpkin Cupcakes

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: This hearty salad is packed with roasted vegetables and protein-packed quinoa, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Braised Beef Short Ribs: Tender, fall-off-the-bone beef short ribs are braised in a rich and flavorful sauce, creating a comforting and indulgent dish.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Creamy coconut chia pudding is layered with sweet and tangy mango puree, creating a refreshing and tropical dessert or snack.

Spicy Lentil Soup: This warming soup is filled with hearty lentils and a blend of spices, creating a flavorful and comforting dish perfect for chilly days.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Pumpkin Cupcakes

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites are filled with a delicious mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then topped with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a perfect combination of flavors and textures.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: This creamy and indulgent dip is made with a blend of spinach, artichokes, and a variety of cheeses, then baked until golden and bubbly. Serve with crispy tortilla chips or toasted bread for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Creamy and indulgent, this dish features tender pieces of chicken in a rich and velvety alfredo sauce, served over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta. The flavors are perfectly balanced, making it a comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion.

Beef Stroganoff: Tender strips of beef are cooked to perfection and then smothered in a savory and creamy sauce, featuring a perfect blend of mushrooms and onions. Served over a bed of buttery egg noodles, this dish is a classic comfort food that never fails to impress.

Why trust this Homemade Pumpkin Cupcakes Recipe:

This recipe uses pumpkin puree to create a moist and flavorful cupcake, while the combination of pumpkin pie spice and vanilla extract adds a warm and aromatic touch. The creamy cream cheese and butter frosting is perfectly balanced with the sweetness of powdered sugar, creating a luscious topping for the cupcakes. The use of candy pumpkins as a garnish adds a festive and playful element. With these high-quality ingredients, you can trust that these cupcakes will be a delightful addition to any occasion.

Want to share your own pumpkin cupcake recipe or discuss baking tips and techniques? Head over to the Baking and Desserts section of our forum and join the conversation about these delightful homemade pumpkin cupcakes!

FAQ:

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned. Simply roast or boil the pumpkin until it's soft, then puree it in a food processor or blender until smooth.

Can I substitute the vegetable oil with another type of oil?

Yes, you can substitute the vegetable oil with melted butter, coconut oil, or even applesauce for a healthier option. Each substitution may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the cupcakes.

How should I store the cupcakes if I want to make them ahead of time?

Store the unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you've already frosted them, store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the frosting ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to use it, let it come to room temperature and give it a quick whip to make it fluffy again.

Can I freeze the cupcakes?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Thaw them at room temperature before frosting and serving.