Delight your taste buds this fall season with these delectable pumpkin cupcakes topped with pumpkin cream cheese frosting. These cupcakes are soft, moist and bursting with flavors of pumpkin and a blend of delicious spices. The frosting is creamy, light, and perfectly complements the cupcakes adding an extra touch of autumn to every bite.
Photos of Pumpkin Cupcakes with Pumpkin Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Most of the ingredients like betty crocker golden vanilla super moist cake mix, pumpkin pie spice, and philadelphia cream cheese can be easily found in the baking aisle of your local supermarket. The pure pumpkin used in this recipe is not the same as pumpkin pie filling, which is pre-sweetened and spiced. Instead, we're using pure pumpkin puree, which is just plain pumpkin. It's often stocked near the pie fillings in the supermarket.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Cupcakes with Pumpkin Cream Cheese Frosting
Betty crocker golden vanilla super moist cake mix: This cake mix serves as a convenient base for the cupcakes, providing a sweet vanilla flavor that complements the pumpkin.
Pumpkin pie spice: A warm blend of spices commonly used in pumpkin pie. It gives a nice autumnal flavor to the cupcakes and frosting.
Pure pumpkin: Adds a natural pumpkin flavor and moistness to the cupcakes. It's also used in the frosting for a burst of pumpkin flavor.
Water: To loosen the batter for the cupcakes.
Philadelphia cream cheese: Creates a creamy, tangy base for the frosting.
Vanilla extract: Gives a depth of flavor to both the cupcakes and frosting.
Cinnamon: Adds a warm, sweet-spicy flavor to the frosting.
Brown sugar: Sweetens the frosting and adds a slight molasses flavor.
One reader, Eugene Briggs says:
These pumpkin cupcakes with pumpkin cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat! The cupcakes are moist and flavorful, and the frosting is the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. The combination of pumpkin and cream cheese is simply divine. I highly recommend trying this recipe for a delicious fall dessert!
Techniques Required for Pumpkin Cupcakes with Pumpkin Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
How to prepare the cupcake batter: Combine the cake mix and pumpkin spice in a large bowl. Add the pumpkin puree and water, then mix for about 2 minutes until well combined.
How to make the pumpkin cream cheese frosting: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, pumpkin, vanilla extract, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and brown sugar. Mix until smooth and creamy.
How to fill the cupcake liners: Fill the cupcake liners about 2/3 full with the prepared batter.
How to ice the cupcakes: Once the cupcakes have cooled, use a spatula to ice the cupcakes or pipe the frosting onto the cupcakes. If piping, you may need to make additional frosting.
How To Make Pumpkin Cupcakes with Pumpkin Spiced Cream Cheese Frosting
Make the perfect fall dessert with this pumpkin cupcakes recipe. They’re topped with pumpkin-spiced cream cheese frosting for a truly autumn-inspired treat.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 18.25ozBetty Crocker Golden Vanilla Super Moist Cake Mix
- 2tsppumpkin pie spice
- 1cupcanned 100% pure pumpkin
- 1cupwater
For Pumpkin Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8ozPhiladelphia cream cheese,⅓ fat, do not use fat free
- ½cuppumpkin,pureed or canned
- 1tspvanilla extract
- 1tspcinnamon
- 1tsppumpkin pie spice
- 5tbspbrown sugar
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a cupcake tin with cupcake wrappers.
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Combine cake mix and pumpkin spice in a large bowl.
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Add pumpkin puree and water, mix for about 2 minutes.
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Fill cupcake liners ⅔ full and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Frosting:
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Combine the cream cheese, pumpkin, vanilla, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice and brown sugar until smooth.
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Once the cupcakes cool, use a spatula to ice the cupcakes.
Nutrition
- Calories: 129.97kcal
- Fat: 4.46g
- Saturated Fat: 2.14g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 1.46g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.31g
- Carbohydrates: 21.09g
- Fiber: 0.41g
- Sugar: 2.38g
- Protein: 1.67g
- Cholesterol: 10.39mg
- Sodium: 165.83mg
- Calcium: 48.61mg
- Potassium: 56.35mg
- Iron: 0.44mg
- Vitamin A: 66.38µg
- Vitamin C: 0.71mg
Technique Tip for Perfect Pumpkin Cupcakes
When making the pumpkin cream cheese frosting, ensure that your cream cheese is at room temperature before you begin. This will make it easier to blend with the other ingredients and result in a smoother, creamier frosting. Additionally, when adding the brown sugar, make sure it's free of lumps for a smoother texture. You can do this by sifting it before adding to the mix.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Pumpkin Cupcakes
Plan ahead: Prepare all your ingredients and equipment before you start. This will help you work more efficiently and avoid any last-minute scrambling.
Use canned pumpkin: Using canned pumpkin instead of fresh pumpkin will save you time on preparation and cooking, without compromising the flavor.
Double the recipe: Make a larger batch of cupcakes and frosting to have extra for later or to share with friends and family.
Use a stand mixer: Using a stand mixer can help you mix the cupcake batter and frosting more quickly and with less effort.
Bake in batches: If your cupcake tin can't fit all the cupcakes at once, bake them in batches to save time and ensure even baking.
Chill the frosting: If you're short on time, pop the frosting in the fridge for a few minutes to firm it up before piping it onto the cupcakes.
Substitute Ingredients For Pumpkin Cupcakes with Pumpkin Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
betty crocker golden vanilla super moist cake mix - Substitute with homemade vanilla cake mix: You can make your own vanilla cake mix by combining flour, sugar, baking powder, and vanilla extract. This allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your liking.
pumpkin pie spice - Substitute with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger: If you don't have pumpkin pie spice, you can create a substitute by combining ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in equal parts to achieve a similar flavor profile.
pure pumpkin - Substitute with butternut squash puree: Butternut squash puree can be used as a substitute for pumpkin puree in baking, as it has a similar texture and flavor.
philadelphia cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt cream cheese: Greek yogurt cream cheese is a healthier alternative to traditional cream cheese and can provide a tangy flavor and creamy texture to the frosting.
brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a substitute for brown sugar in the frosting, providing a slightly different flavor profile with a hint of caramel.
Presentation Ideas for Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Elevate the cupcake: Gently place the pumpkin cupcake on a pristine white plate, ensuring it is centered and inviting. The cupcake should be the star of the show, so present it with elegance and simplicity.
Artful frosting application: Using a piping bag, delicately swirl the pumpkin cream cheese frosting on top of the cupcake, creating a beautiful and inviting design. The frosting should be applied with precision and finesse, adding a touch of artistry to the presentation.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top of the frosting, adding a pop of color and a hint of warmth to the overall presentation. The garnish should be subtle yet impactful, enhancing the visual appeal of the cupcake.
Plating symmetry: Arrange the cupcakes in a uniform pattern on a sleek serving platter, ensuring equal spacing and alignment. The presentation should exude balance and harmony, showcasing the cupcakes as a cohesive and visually striking ensemble.
Incorporate seasonal elements: Place a small, vibrant pumpkin leaf or a miniature pumpkin alongside the cupcakes, infusing the presentation with a touch of seasonal charm. The addition of these elements will evoke a sense of warmth and nostalgia, elevating the overall visual impact.
Elevate with edible flowers: Adorn the platter with a few delicate edible flowers, such as marigolds or pansies, to introduce a touch of natural beauty and sophistication. The edible flowers should be strategically placed to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the presentation.
Attention to detail: Ensure that the edges of the serving platter are meticulously wiped clean, and any stray crumbs or smudges are carefully removed. Attention to detail is crucial in presenting a dessert of this caliber, reflecting a commitment to excellence in every aspect of the presentation.
Essential Tools for Making Pumpkin Cupcakes
- Oven: An appliance used for baking and cooking food by exposing it to dry heat.
- Cupcake tin: A metal pan with individual molds used for baking cupcakes.
- Cupcake wrappers: Paper or foil liners used to line the cupcake tin to prevent the cupcakes from sticking.
- Large bowl: A container for mixing and combining ingredients.
- Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for mixing, spreading, and turning.
- Mixer: An electric appliance used for mixing, beating, and blending ingredients.
- Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.
- Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients, especially in baking and cooking.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used for accurately measuring ingredients for recipes.
- Cupcake piping bag and tips: Used for piping frosting onto cupcakes in decorative patterns.
How To Store and Freeze Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting or storing. This will prevent the frosting from melting and sliding off the cupcakes.
Store the frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The cream cheese frosting needs to be refrigerated to maintain its texture and prevent spoilage.
If you want to store the cupcakes for a longer period, you can freeze them:
- Place the unfrosted cupcakes in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag, separating layers with wax paper or parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Freeze the cupcakes for up to 2-3 months.
- When ready to serve, thaw the cupcakes in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Prepare the pumpkin cream cheese frosting fresh when you're ready to serve the cupcakes. The frosting can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
If you have leftover frosting, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Place the frosting in a freezer-safe container, and when ready to use, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Give it a good stir before using it to frost the cupcakes.
To maintain the best texture and flavor, avoid freezing the cupcakes with the frosting on them. The frosting may become grainy and lose its creamy consistency when frozen and thawed.
How To Reheat Leftover Pumpkin Cupcakes
To reheat leftover pumpkin cupcakes with pumpkin cream cheese frosting, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure that the cupcakes warm up evenly without drying out or becoming too crispy on the edges.
Remove the cupcakes from the refrigerator and let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. This will help the cupcakes to warm up more evenly and prevent them from becoming soggy or mushy when reheated.
Place the cupcakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Make sure to leave some space between each cupcake to allow for even heating.
If the cream cheese frosting has hardened during refrigeration, you can soften it up by placing the cupcakes in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before putting them in the oven. This will help the frosting to become creamy and smooth again.
Cover the cupcakes loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the tops from browning too quickly or burning. The foil will also help to trap in moisture and prevent the cupcakes from drying out.
Place the baking sheet with the cupcakes in the preheated oven and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until the cupcakes are heated through and the frosting is soft and creamy.
Alternatively, you can reheat the cupcakes in the microwave if you're short on time. Place one or two cupcakes on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 10-15 seconds at a time, checking after each interval to ensure that they don't overheat or become soggy.
Once the cupcakes are heated through, remove them from the oven or microwave and let them cool for a minute or two before serving. This will allow the frosting to set up slightly and prevent it from melting or sliding off the cupcakes.
If the cream cheese frosting has become too soft or runny after reheating, you can place the cupcakes in the refrigerator for a few minutes to help the frosting firm up again.
Serve the reheated pumpkin cupcakes with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of flavor and presentation. Enjoy your deliciously warm and creamy cupcakes!
Random Fact about Pumpkin Cupcakes with Pumpkin Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe:
The pumpkin cream cheese frosting in this recipe can also be used as a delicious spread for toast or bagels.
Is Making Pumpkin Cupcakes at Home Cost-Effective?
The pumpkin cupcakes with pumpkin cream cheese frosting recipe is cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are commonly found and reasonably priced. The use of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice adds a seasonal touch without breaking the bank. The frosting ingredients, such as cream cheese and brown sugar, are also affordable. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$15, making it a budget-friendly option for a delightful dessert.
Are Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Healthy or Unhealthy?
This pumpkin cupcake recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main issues are:
- The recipe relies on a pre-made cake mix, which often contains added sugars, preservatives, and artificial ingredients
- The frosting is high in sugar and fat, with the cream cheese, brown sugar, and pumpkin puree contributing to the calorie count
- There is no mention of whole grain flour or healthier substitutions for the cake mix
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace the pre-made cake mix with a homemade batter using whole wheat pastry flour, reducing the amount of sugar, and incorporating healthier fats like coconut oil or Greek yogurt
- Reduce the amount of brown sugar in the frosting and experiment with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey
- Add more pumpkin puree to the batter to increase the fiber content and reduce the need for excessive oil or butter
- Incorporate chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, into the batter for added protein and healthy fats
- Top the cupcakes with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg instead of frosting for a lower-calorie option
By making these adjustments, you can create a more nutritious treat that still captures the delightful flavors of pumpkin spice. Experimenting with healthier ingredients and reducing the overall sugar content will result in a more balanced cupcake that you can feel better about indulging in.
Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Pumpkin Treat
The recipe for pumpkin cupcakes with pumpkin cream cheese frosting is a delightful combination of seasonal flavors. The use of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice in both the cupcakes and the frosting creates a harmonious blend of autumn tastes. The addition of brown sugar to the cream cheese frosting adds a warm sweetness that complements the pumpkin perfectly. The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it accessible for both novice and experienced bakers. Overall, these cupcakes are a wonderful treat for fall gatherings or as a special dessert for any occasion.
Enhance Your Pumpkin Cupcakes with Pumpkin Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Appetizer and Main Course Pairings for Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Why trust this Pumpkin Cupcakes with Pumpkin Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe:
This recipe is a guaranteed hit for all pumpkin lovers. The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice ensures a rich and authentic flavor. The use of Philadelphia cream cheese in the frosting promises a creamy and indulgent texture. The addition of cinnamon and brown sugar adds warmth and depth to the frosting, elevating the overall taste. With these high-quality ingredients, this recipe is a trustworthy choice for anyone seeking a delightful pumpkin cupcake experience.
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