Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes Recipe

Indulge in the flavors of fall with these Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes. These cupcakes are packed with the rich taste of pumpkin and a blend of autumn spices, perfectly finished with a creamy marshmallow frosting. An excellent choice for fall gatherings or a sweet treat on a cool evening.

Photos of Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes Recipe

Most of the ingredients for this recipe are common household staples. However, pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice may not be readily available in everyone's pantry. Both can be found in the baking aisle of most supermarkets, but be sure not to confuse pumpkin puree with pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugars and spices.

Ingredients for Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes

All purpose flour: A common baking ingredient, provides structure to the cupcakes.

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

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Ground cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice: Adds warmth and depth to the cupcakes.

Dark brown sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture.

Eggs: Acts as a binding agent.

Pumpkin puree: Provides moisture and rich pumpkin flavor.

Vegetable oil: Adds moisture and helps to create a tender crumb.

Milk: Provides moisture and helps to create a light texture.

Vanilla extract: Enhances flavor.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness to the frosting.

Marshmallow creme: Sweet, fluffy ingredient that gives the frosting a unique texture and flavor.

Heavy cream: Adds creaminess and richness to the frosting.

Confectioner's sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting.

One reader, Charles Redding says:

These spiced pumpkin cupcakes are a delightful treat! The warm blend of cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice creates a cozy, comforting flavor. The marshmallow frosting is the perfect sweet and fluffy topping. I highly recommend this recipe for a delicious fall dessert!

Charles Redding

Techniques Required for Making Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes

How to prepare the cupcake batter: Combine the dry ingredients in a large bowl and the wet ingredients in a separate bowl, then mix them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.

How to make the marshmallow frosting: Beat the butter, marshmallow creme, vanilla, and cream until smooth. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and salt, beating until the frosting reaches the desired consistency.

How To Make Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes

Soft and flavorful classic spiced pumpkin cupcakes sprinkled with marshmallow frosting for the holiday season. Kids and adults will surely enjoy this treat.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 18 minutes

Refrigerate Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Total: 2 hours 3 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

1¾cupsall purpose flour,(220 grams), spoon & leveled
1tspbaking powder
1tspbaking soda
½tspsalt
1½tspground cinnamon
1tsppumpkin pie spice
⅔cupdark brown sugar,(133 grams), packed
2large eggs
1cuppumpkin puree,(227 grams), canned is best here
½cupvegetable oil,(120 milliliter)
⅓cupmilk,(80 milliliter)
1tsppure vanilla extract

For the Marshmallow Frosting:

½cupunsalted butter,(120 grams), softened to room temperature
1cupmarshmallow creme,marshmallow fluff
1tsppure vanilla extract
3tbspheavy cream,(45 milliliter)
2cupsconfectioner’s sugar,(240 grams)
¼tspsalt

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (177 degrees C). Spray a 12-count muffin pan with non-stick spray or line with cupcake liners. Set aside.
In a large bowl, toss the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and pumpkin pie spice together until combined. Set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk the brown sugar and eggs together until combined. Whisk in the pumpkin, oil, milk, and vanilla until combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix the batter.
Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake cups. Fill only about ½-⅔ full.
Bake for 17 to 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool completely before frosting.

Marshmallow Frosting:

In a medium bowl using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter, marshmallow creme, vanilla, and cream on medium speed until completely smooth.
Add 2 cups of confectioners’ sugar and the salt slowly with the mixer running on low then increase the speed to high and beat for 1 minute.
If it looks too thin, add ¼ cup more confectioners’ sugar. Frost cooled cupcakes however you’d like.

Nutrition

Calories: 323.80kcal
Fat: 16.86g
Saturated Fat: 5.82g
Trans Fat: 0.33g
Monounsaturated Fat: 8.14g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.88g
Carbohydrates: 41.01g
Fiber: 1.10g
Sugar: 26.65g
Protein: 3.11g
Cholesterol: 48.99mg
Sodium: 220.16mg
Calcium: 55.44mg
Potassium: 87.28mg
Iron: 1.25mg
Vitamin A: 218.97µg
Vitamin C: 0.79mg

Technique Tip for Perfect Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes

When making the marshmallow frosting, ensure the butter is at room temperature before you start. This will make it easier to beat and will result in a smoother, creamier frosting. Also, when adding the confectioners’ sugar, do it gradually to avoid lumps. If the frosting appears too thin, don't hesitate to add more sugar until you reach the desired consistency. Remember, the frosting should be thick enough to hold its shape on the cupcakes but still light and fluffy.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes

Prep ahead: Prepare the dry and wet ingredients the night before and store them separately. This will save time on the day of baking. Use a mixer: Utilize a stand mixer or hand mixer to quickly and efficiently combine the cupcake batter, saving time and effort. Bake in batches: If your oven can accommodate multiple cupcake pans, bake in batches to maximize efficiency and reduce overall baking time. Organize ingredients: Prior to starting the recipe, organize all ingredients and equipment to streamline the cooking process. Simplify decoration: Opt for a simple frosting technique or topping to save time on decorating the cupcakes.

Substitute Ingredients For Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes Recipe

all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can be used as a healthier alternative, adding a nutty flavor and more fiber to the cupcakes.
dark brown sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar and molasses: You can mix granulated sugar with a small amount of molasses to replicate the flavor and moisture of dark brown sugar.
vegetable oil - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can be used as a healthier alternative to reduce the fat content while keeping the cupcakes moist.
marshmallow creme - Substitute with marshmallows: Melted marshmallows can be used as a substitute for marshmallow creme to achieve a similar texture and flavor in the frosting.
confectioner's sugar - Substitute with granulated sugar: You can process granulated sugar in a food processor to make a fine powder as a substitute for confectioner's sugar.

Presentation Ideas for Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes

Elevate the cupcake: Place the spiced pumpkin cupcake on a pristine white plate, ensuring it is the focal point of the presentation.
Artful frosting: Use a piping bag to create a delicate swirl of the marshmallow frosting on top of the cupcake, adding a touch of elegance to the overall presentation.
Garnish with fall flavors: Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon and a few toasted pumpkin seeds around the base of the cupcake to enhance the autumnal theme.
Accompany with a side: Serve the spiced pumpkin cupcake alongside a small quenelle of vanilla bean ice cream to provide a contrasting temperature and texture.
Incorporate seasonal elements: Place a small, edible autumn leaf made from spun sugar delicately on top of the cupcake to add a touch of whimsy and sophistication.
Use a sophisticated plating technique: Arrange the cupcakes in a circular pattern on a sleek, modern serving platter to create a visually appealing display.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For an extra touch of luxury, delicately place a small piece of edible gold leaf on top of the marshmallow frosting to add a shimmering, opulent touch to the presentation.
Serve with a warm beverage: Accompany the spiced pumpkin cupcake with a small glass of warm mulled cider, enhancing the overall sensory experience for the guests.

Essential Tools for Making Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes

Oven: An essential appliance for baking and roasting.
Muffin pan: Used to bake cupcakes and muffins.
Non-stick spray: Used to grease baking pans and prevent food from sticking.
Cupcake liners: Paper or foil liners used to line muffin or cupcake pans.
Large bowl: Used for mixing dry ingredients and batters.
Whisk: Used for blending and mixing ingredients together.
Medium bowl: Used for mixing wet ingredients and smaller batches of ingredients.
Handheld or stand mixer: Used for mixing and beating ingredients to incorporate air into batters and frostings.
Paddle attachment: A mixer attachment used for mixing and beating ingredients.
Spatula: Used for folding ingredients together and scraping down the sides of bowls.
Toothpick: Used to check if cupcakes are fully baked by inserting into the center and ensuring it comes out clean.
Measuring cups and spoons: Used for accurately measuring ingredients.
Cooling rack: Used to cool baked goods evenly.
Pastry bag: Used for piping frosting onto cupcakes.
Food processor: Used for making pumpkin puree.
Mixing bowl: Used for mixing and combining ingredients.
Confectioners’ sugar sifter: Used to sift confectioners’ sugar for a smooth frosting.

How To Store and Freeze Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes

Allow the spiced pumpkin cupcakes to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 3 days.
If you want to store the cupcakes for a longer period, place them in a single layer in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour before frosting.
To store frosted cupcakes, place them in a single layer in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
If you have leftover marshmallow frosting, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. When ready to use, let it come to room temperature and beat it with a mixer until smooth and fluffy.
For optimal freshness, consider freezing unfrosted cupcakes and frosting them just before serving. This way, you can enjoy freshly frosted cupcakes whenever you want!

How To Reheat Leftover Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes

To reheat leftover spiced pumpkin cupcakes, 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 outside.
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 cupcakes have frosting on top, you may want to remove it before reheating. The high heat of the oven can cause the frosting to melt and become runny, which can make the cupcakes messy and difficult to eat.
Once the oven is preheated, place the baking sheet with the cupcakes inside and bake for 5-7 minutes. Keep a close eye on the cupcakes to make sure they don't burn or become too dry.
Alternatively, you can use a microwave to reheat the cupcakes. Place one or two cupcakes on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high for 10-15 seconds. Check the cupcakes and continue to heat them in 5-second intervals until they are warm throughout.
If you want to restore some of the moisture to the cupcakes, you can place a damp paper towel over them before microwaving. This will help to create steam and keep the cupcakes from drying out.
Once the cupcakes are warm, you can re-frost them with the marshmallow frosting or serve them as is. If you removed the frosting before reheating, you can also add a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for added flavor.

Random Fact About Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes

The pumpkin in the spiced pumpkin cupcakes recipe is a rich source of vitamin A, which is essential for good vision, a healthy immune system, and cell growth. Additionally, the marshmallow frosting can be easily customized by adding different flavors such as cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique twist.

Is Making Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes at Home Economical?

Based on the cost of pumpkin puree, marshmallow creme, and other ingredients, this spiced pumpkin cupcakes recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. The versatility of the ingredients allows for multiple uses, enhancing its value. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability, flavor, and the joy it brings to the table.

Are Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes Healthy or Unhealthy?

This spiced pumpkin cupcake recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

The recipe contains a significant amount of sugar, with both brown sugar in the cupcakes and confectioner's sugar in the frosting. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to various health issues, such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
The use of all-purpose flour, which is refined and stripped of its nutrients, offers little in terms of dietary fiber and essential vitamins and minerals.
The recipe calls for vegetable oil, which is often high in unhealthy fats and can contribute to inflammation in the body.
The marshmallow frosting is high in sugar and fat, further increasing the calorie count and potentially negative health impact of the cupcakes.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value
Reduce the amount of sugar in both the cupcakes and frosting, or opt for natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey
Swap the vegetable oil for healthier alternatives like coconut oil or applesauce, which can help reduce the amount of unhealthy fats
Incorporate more pumpkin puree into the recipe, as it is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
Experiment with a healthier frosting alternative, such as a Greek yogurt-based frosting or a light cream cheese frosting, to cut down on sugar and fat content

Editor's Thoughts on This Delightful Fall Treat

The spiced pumpkin cupcakes recipe is a delightful treat that captures the warm flavors of fall. The combination of cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and brown sugar creates a rich and aromatic batter, while the marshmallow frosting adds a fluffy sweetness. The cupcakes are moist and tender, with a perfect balance of spices. The frosting is light and creamy, complementing the cupcakes beautifully. This recipe is a wonderful choice for autumn gatherings or as a special treat for any occasion.

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

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for complementing the spiced pumpkin cupcakes.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus grilled to perfection and topped with a zesty lemon zest, a refreshing side dish to pair with the spiced pumpkin cupcakes.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender carrots glazed with honey, adding a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors of the spiced pumpkin cupcakes.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: This creamy and comforting soup is perfect for a cozy night in. The roasted butternut squash adds a depth of flavor that will have you coming back for seconds.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: This sweet and savory salmon dish is a crowd-pleaser. The honey garlic glaze adds a sticky and delicious coating to the tender salmon fillets.

Mixed Berry Cobbler: This warm and fruity dessert is a great way to use up any leftover berries. The buttery biscuit topping pairs perfectly with the juicy mixed berries for a delightful treat.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement Spiced 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 blend of flavors.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: This creamy and indulgent dip is a crowd-pleaser, featuring a blend of spinach, artichokes, and cheese, served with crispy tortilla chips or toasted bread for dipping.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish by combining tender chicken with a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce. Serve it over a bed of al dente fettuccine for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a quick and flavorful stir fry by sautéing thinly sliced beef with an assortment of colorful vegetables in a savory sauce. Serve it over steamed rice for a delicious and nutritious dinner option.

Why trust this Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes Recipe:

This spiced pumpkin cupcake recipe is a delightful treat for any occasion. The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice creates a rich, flavorful base. The marshmallow frosting, made with marshmallow creme and unsalted butter, adds a luscious sweetness. With a perfect balance of sweet and spice, these cupcakes are sure to impress. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the careful balance of flavors to create a memorable and delicious dessert experience.

Want to share your experience making these Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes or have any tips to perfect the recipe? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum!

FAQ:

How can I make these pumpkin cupcakes gluten-free?

To make these pumpkin cupcakes gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular all-purpose flour. Just ensure that the other ingredients you use, such as baking powder, baking soda, and pumpkin puree, are also gluten-free.

Can I substitute the pumpkin pie spice with individual spices?

Yes, if you don't have pumpkin pie spice, you can substitute it with a blend of individual spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice. Use 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of the other spices to achieve a similar flavor.

How do I store the frosted pumpkin cupcakes?

Store the frosted pumpkin cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store them for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before serving.

Can I make the marshmallow frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the marshmallow 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 before frosting the cupcakes.

Can I use a different frosting for these pumpkin cupcakes?

Absolutely! While the marshmallow frosting complements the pumpkin cupcakes well, you can use cream cheese frosting, vanilla buttercream, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for a different flavor profile. Get creative and use your favorite frosting!