Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes Tasty Fall Treat

Name: Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup pumpkin puree; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled; 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for frosting); 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened (for frosting); 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin spice (for frosting); to taste whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for garnish

ByJasmine December 17, 2024December 2, 2025

$- 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger - 1/4 teaspoon salt These dry ingredients make the base of the cupcakes. The flour gives structure, while the baking powder and baking soda help them rise. The spices add that warm, cozy flavor we love in fall treats. - 1/2 cup pumpkin puree - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened - 2 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled The wet ingredients bring moisture to the cupcakes. Pumpkin puree not only adds flavor but also keeps them soft. The sugars create sweetness and a nice texture. The coffee enhances that delightful pumpkin spice taste. - 1/2 cup powdered sugar - 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened - 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin spice The frosting adds a creamy finish. Cream cheese gives it a tangy, rich flavor. The powdered sugar sweetens it up, and pumpkin spice ties it all together, making every bite feel special. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grab a muffin tin. Line it with cupcake liners. This helps with easy removal and keeps your cupcakes neat. In a medium bowl, whisk these dry items together: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger - 1/4 teaspoon salt Make sure the mixture is well combined. This helps give your cupcakes a great flavor. In a large bowl, beat together: - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed Mix until it looks light and fluffy. Next, add: - 1/2 cup pumpkin puree - 2 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Stir until everything is mixed well. Now, it’s time to combine the dry and wet ingredients. Gradually add the dry mix into the wet mix. Alternate with: - 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled Start and end with the dry mix. Stir until just combined. Don't overmix, or the cupcakes may turn out tough. Evenly fill the cupcake liners with your batter. Fill them about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, they are ready! Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, move them to a wire rack to cool completely. For the frosting, start by beating: - 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened Continue mixing until it's smooth. Gradually add: - 1/2 cup powdered sugar - 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin spice Mix until fluffy and well combined. Once the cupcakes are cool, frost each one generously with your cream cheese frosting. For a fun touch, you can add a dollop of whipped cream. Finish with a sprinkle of cinnamon to make them festive. Enjoy your tasty pumpkin spice latte cupcakes! To get soft cupcakes, use room-temperature butter and eggs. This helps mix well and makes a light batter. Make sure to combine the wet and dry ingredients gently. Overmixing can make them tough. Instead, mix until you see no dry flour. This keeps the cupcakes fluffy. Check if your cupcakes are done by using a toothpick. Insert it in the center of a cupcake. If it comes out clean, they are ready. If it has wet batter, they need more time. The cupcakes should also spring back when lightly touched. For smooth frosting, start with softened cream cheese. Beat it well before adding powdered sugar. This helps avoid lumps. Add the pumpkin spice gradually to balance the flavor. Taste as you go to find the perfect sweetness. When frosting, use a spatula for an even spread. You can also add whipped cream on top for extra fun! Pro Tips Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices, especially cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, will enhance the flavor of your cupcakes significantly. Check Coffee Strength: Ensure your brewed coffee is strong enough to complement the pumpkin flavor; consider using espresso for a richer taste. Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature butter, eggs, and cream cheese for smoother mixing and a better texture. Frosting Variations: Experiment with different frosting flavors, such as maple or vanilla, to create a unique twist on your pumpkin spice latte cupcakes. {{image_2}} You can make gluten-free pumpkin spice latte cupcakes by using gluten-free flour. Many brands offer great blends that work well. Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free mix. The texture will still be light and fluffy. Make sure to check the labels to ensure no gluten sneaks in. To make a vegan version, replace the eggs with flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens. Use a dairy-free butter and choose your favorite non-dairy milk instead of coffee. This way, everyone can enjoy these fall treats! While cream cheese frosting is tasty, you have other options. Try a simple vanilla buttercream. Just mix softened dairy-free butter with powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla. Or, for a lighter touch, make whipped coconut cream. Chill a can of coconut milk, scoop out the solid, and whisk it. This adds a nice twist! To keep your pumpkin spice latte cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps to prevent them from drying out. Place wax paper between layers to avoid sticking. Store them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them. They can last up to a week in the fridge. Freezing unfrosted cupcakes is a great way to save them for later. First, let the cupcakes cool completely. Then, wrap each cupcake in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to label the bag with the date. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to eat them, just thaw them at room temperature. To reheat your cupcakes, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cupcakes on a baking sheet. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. You can also use a microwave. Heat each cupcake for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat them, as they can get dry. Enjoy your warm cupcakes with fresh frosting! Yes, you can use pumpkin pie filling. However, it includes spices and sweeteners. This can change the taste and texture. If you choose this option, cut back on the sugar in the recipe. This way, your cupcakes won’t be too sweet. To boost the coffee flavor, add more brewed coffee to the batter. Start with an extra 1/4 cup. You can also add instant coffee granules. Mix 1-2 teaspoons into the dry ingredients. This will deepen the coffee taste without changing the batter too much. You can swap cream cheese with Greek yogurt or mascarpone. These options provide a smooth texture. They also keep the frosting creamy. If you prefer a sweeter option, use butter instead. Just mix well with powdered sugar to reach the right consistency. These cupcakes stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge. Just remember, if you frost them, they might last a day less. You learned about the ingredients and steps for making delicious pumpkin spice latte cupcakes. We explored tips for great texture and creative variations. Proper storage and answers to your questions ensure your success. Remember, baking is fun and allows you to experiment. Enjoy sharing your tasty cupcakes with friends and family. With these tips, you're ready to bake like a pro!$

Are you ready to dive into fall’s favorite flavor? Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes are the perfect treat to enjoy during this cozy season. You’ll love how easy it is to blend warm spices with rich coffee in each bite. In this post, I’ll guide you through simple steps and share tips to ensure your cupcakes turn out soft and tasty. Let’s bake something delicious!

Why I Love This Recipe

Cozy Autumn Flavor: These cupcakes capture the essence of fall with a delightful blend of pumpkin and warm spices.
Coffee Kick: The brewed coffee adds a rich flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cupcakes.
Easy to Make: The step-by-step instructions make baking these cupcakes a breeze, even for beginners.
Festive Presentation: The cream cheese frosting and optional whipped cream make these cupcakes a beautiful treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients List

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt

These dry ingredients make the base of the cupcakes. The flour gives structure, while the baking powder and baking soda help them rise. The spices add that warm, cozy flavor we love in fall treats.

Wet Ingredients List

1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled

The wet ingredients bring moisture to the cupcakes. Pumpkin puree not only adds flavor but also keeps them soft. The sugars create sweetness and a nice texture. The coffee enhances that delightful pumpkin spice taste.

Frosting Ingredients

1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 teaspoon pumpkin spice

The frosting adds a creamy finish. Cream cheese gives it a tangy, rich flavor. The powdered sugar sweetens it up, and pumpkin spice ties it all together, making every bite feel special.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Oven and Muffin Tin

First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grab a muffin tin. Line it with cupcake liners. This helps with easy removal and keeps your cupcakes neat.

Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk these dry items together:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure the mixture is well combined. This helps give your cupcakes a great flavor.

Preparing the Batter

In a large bowl, beat together:

1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed

Mix until it looks light and fluffy. Next, add:

1/2 cup pumpkin puree
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Stir until everything is mixed well. Now, it’s time to combine the dry and wet ingredients. Gradually add the dry mix into the wet mix. Alternate with:

1/2 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled

Start and end with the dry mix. Stir until just combined. Don’t overmix, or the cupcakes may turn out tough.

Baking the Cupcakes

Evenly fill the cupcake liners with your batter. Fill them about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, they are ready! Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, move them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Frosting

For the frosting, start by beating:

1/4 cup cream cheese, softened

Continue mixing until it’s smooth. Gradually add:

1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/4 teaspoon pumpkin spice

Mix until fluffy and well combined.

Frosting and Garnishing the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are cool, frost each one generously with your cream cheese frosting. For a fun touch, you can add a dollop of whipped cream. Finish with a sprinkle of cinnamon to make them festive. Enjoy your tasty pumpkin spice latte cupcakes!

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring the Perfect Cupcake Texture

To get soft cupcakes, use room-temperature butter and eggs. This helps mix well and makes a light batter. Make sure to combine the wet and dry ingredients gently. Overmixing can make them tough. Instead, mix until you see no dry flour. This keeps the cupcakes fluffy.

How to Tell When Cupcakes Are Done

Check if your cupcakes are done by using a toothpick. Insert it in the center of a cupcake. If it comes out clean, they are ready. If it has wet batter, they need more time. The cupcakes should also spring back when lightly touched.

Tips for Making Cream Cheese Frosting

For smooth frosting, start with softened cream cheese. Beat it well before adding powdered sugar. This helps avoid lumps. Add the pumpkin spice gradually to balance the flavor. Taste as you go to find the perfect sweetness. When frosting, use a spatula for an even spread. You can also add whipped cream on top for extra fun!

Pro Tips

Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices, especially cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, will enhance the flavor of your cupcakes significantly.
Check Coffee Strength: Ensure your brewed coffee is strong enough to complement the pumpkin flavor; consider using espresso for a richer taste.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature butter, eggs, and cream cheese for smoother mixing and a better texture.
Frosting Variations: Experiment with different frosting flavors, such as maple or vanilla, to create a unique twist on your pumpkin spice latte cupcakes.

Variations

Gluten-Free Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes

You can make gluten-free pumpkin spice latte cupcakes by using gluten-free flour. Many brands offer great blends that work well. Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free mix. The texture will still be light and fluffy. Make sure to check the labels to ensure no gluten sneaks in.

Vegan Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes

To make a vegan version, replace the eggs with flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens. Use a dairy-free butter and choose your favorite non-dairy milk instead of coffee. This way, everyone can enjoy these fall treats!

Alternative Frosting Ideas

While cream cheese frosting is tasty, you have other options. Try a simple vanilla buttercream. Just mix softened dairy-free butter with powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla. Or, for a lighter touch, make whipped coconut cream. Chill a can of coconut milk, scoop out the solid, and whisk it. This adds a nice twist!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Cupcakes

To keep your pumpkin spice latte cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps to prevent them from drying out. Place wax paper between layers to avoid sticking. Store them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them. They can last up to a week in the fridge.

Freezing Unfrosted Cupcakes

Freezing unfrosted cupcakes is a great way to save them for later. First, let the cupcakes cool completely. Then, wrap each cupcake in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to label the bag with the date. They can stay frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat them, just thaw them at room temperature.

Best Way to Reheat Cupcakes

To reheat your cupcakes, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cupcakes on a baking sheet. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. You can also use a microwave. Heat each cupcake for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat them, as they can get dry. Enjoy your warm cupcakes with fresh frosting!

FAQs

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can use pumpkin pie filling. However, it includes spices and sweeteners. This can change the taste and texture. If you choose this option, cut back on the sugar in the recipe. This way, your cupcakes won’t be too sweet.

How do I make the cupcakes more coffee-flavored?

To boost the coffee flavor, add more brewed coffee to the batter. Start with an extra 1/4 cup. You can also add instant coffee granules. Mix 1-2 teaspoons into the dry ingredients. This will deepen the coffee taste without changing the batter too much.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?

You can swap cream cheese with Greek yogurt or mascarpone. These options provide a smooth texture. They also keep the frosting creamy. If you prefer a sweeter option, use butter instead. Just mix well with powdered sugar to reach the right consistency.

How long do these cupcakes stay fresh?

These cupcakes stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer freshness, keep them in the fridge. Just remember, if you frost them, they might last a day less.

You learned about the ingredients and steps for making delicious pumpkin spice latte cupcakes. We explored tips for great texture and creative variations. Proper storage and answers to your questions ensure your success.

Remember, baking is fun and allows you to experiment. Enjoy sharing your tasty cupcakes with friends and family. With these tips, you’re ready to bake like a pr