If you are craving a cozy, warmly spiced treat that feels like a hug in cupcake form, this Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes Recipe is exactly what you need. Fluffy, moist cupcakes infused with the perfect blend of pumpkin and classic autumn spices, topped with a luxuriously creamy cinnamon cream cheese frosting, make this recipe an unbeatable favorite for any pumpkin lover. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or just want to treat yourself, these cupcakes deliver a festive, comforting taste that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and leaves everyone smiling.

The image shows two cupcakes placed on a white square plate on a white marbled surface. Each cupcake has a golden brown base with vertical ridges on the paper liner and is topped with a smooth swirl of white cream frosting. The frosting is sprinkled lightly with a fine brown powder, likely cinnamon, adding texture and color contrast. Two cinnamon sticks rest next to the cupcake in the foreground, enhancing the cozy look. In the background, the second cupcake sits slightly blurred, creating depth in the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes Recipe is easier than you might think, and each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, moisture, and texture. From the tender crumb of the cake flour to the rich cream cheese in the frosting, these essentials come together in harmony.

Cake flour: Using 8 ounces (2 cups) ensures a light, tender crumb that’s just right for cupcakes.
Baking powder: One tablespoon helps the cupcakes rise beautifully, keeping them fluffy and soft.
Pumpkin pie spice: Two teaspoons add that iconic warm blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves you expect from a pumpkin treat.
Ground cinnamon: A teaspoon enhances spice depth and layers flavor complexity.
Salt: Half a teaspoon balances the sweetness and amplifies all the other flavors.
Unsalted butter: Four ounces (1/2 cup) at room temperature creates a rich, tender texture in the cupcakes.
Granulated sugar: Eight and three-quarter ounces (1 ¼ cups) provides just enough sweetness without overpowering the spice.
Large eggs: Two eggs bind the ingredients and add moisture for a rich bite.
Milk: Eight ounces (1 cup) soften the batter, making it easy to mix and keeping cupcakes moist.
Pumpkin puree: Eight ounces (1 cup) brings natural sweetness and that unmistakable fall flavor.
Cream cheese: Twelve ounces (1.5 packages) at room temperature ensures a smooth, tangy frosting that pairs perfectly with spice.
Butter for frosting: Three ounces (6 tablespoons) add richness and help create a luscious texture.
Vanilla extract: One tablespoon lifts the entire frosting with a warm, sweet aroma.
Salt for frosting: A quarter teaspoon balances the sweetness and enriches flavor.
Powdered sugar: Twenty-four ounces (6 cups) sweetens and thickens the frosting to your desired consistency.
Ground cinnamon or nutmeg (optional): One tablespoon adds a final, festive sprinkle of spice atop your cupcakes.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Setup

Begin by preheating your oven to 350° F (177° C). Line a cupcake or muffin pan with 24 paper liners. This step makes cleanup simple and ensures your cupcakes come out with perfect shape and texture.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the cake flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt. Sifting is key here to avoid any lumps and evenly distribute all the spices and leavening agents throughout the batter.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter and granulated sugar on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This aeration step is crucial for tender, airy cupcakes.

Step 4: Add Eggs Gradually

Mix in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully combined before adding the next. This slow incorporation keeps your batter emulsified so your cupcakes bake up perfectly uniform.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Mix and Milk

With the mixer on low speed, add a third of the dry ingredients, followed by a third of the milk. Continue alternating until everything is just combined. This technique keeps the batter smooth and prevents overmixing, which can make cupcakes tough.

Step 6: Incorporate the Pumpkin Puree

Stir in the pumpkin puree gently until just combined. Scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl to make sure no dry flour remains. The pumpkin adds moisture and that signature fall flavor you’re celebrating.

Step 7: Fill and Bake the Cupcakes

Spoon the batter into your lined pan, filling each muffin cup about two-thirds full (roughly 1/4 cup batter). Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a light touch springs back from the cupcake top. Let them cool completely before frosting to avoid melting your lovely cream cheese topping.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat together cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and salt until smooth and creamy. Then gradually mix in the powdered sugar, adding it cup by cup until you reach your perfect frosting consistency. Whether smooth and thick or just lightly spreadable, this frosting is a dreamy complement to the spiced cupcakes.

Step 9: Frost and Garnish

Pipe or spread the frosting on cooled cupcakes, then dust with a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for that eye-catching finishing touch that also adds extra flavor depth.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes Recipe

Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Top these beauties with simple, classic garnishes like a light dusting of ground cinnamon or freshly grated nutmeg to highlight that warm spice profile. For an extra special treat, try toasted pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce to add texture and decadence.

Side Dishes

Pair your cupcakes with a warm cup of chai tea or a frothy latte to complement the spicy, creamy flavors perfectly. For gatherings, a bowl of fresh fruit or lightly salted nuts contrasts nicely with the sweetness, balancing your dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes Recipe creations on a rustic wooden platter with autumn leaves or cinnamon sticks for a charming, cozy display. For parties, consider wrapping each cupcake with a festive ribbon or placing them in individual clear boxes for easy gifting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Bringing them back to room temperature before serving brings out the best flavor and texture without losing that creamy frosting goodness.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cupcakes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to freezer bags. When ready to indulge, thaw in the fridge overnight and frost just before serving for fresh, homemade taste anytime you want.

Reheating

If you prefer your cupcakes slightly warm, heat them gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Avoid overheating, especially once frosted, to keep that cream cheese frosting intact and creamy.

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour, but the cupcakes might be a little denser because cake flour has less protein, which makes baked goods lighter and softer. To mimic cake flour, try removing two tablespoons of all-purpose flour per cup and replacing it with cornstarch.

Is pumpkin pie spice necessary or can I use individual spices?

Pumpkin pie spice is a convenient blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves that perfectly captures the autumn flavor. You can absolutely mix your own spices if you prefer, just match the flavor profile for that classic pumpkin cupcake taste.

How do I prevent the cupcakes from drying out?

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately and avoid overbaking. Baking them until they just spring back to a light touch is key. Also, storing cupcakes in an airtight container helps maintain their moisture.

Can I make these cupcakes vegan or dairy-free?

This recipe isn’t vegan as is, since it uses eggs, butter, and cream cheese. However, you can try plant-based butters, vegan cream cheese, and egg substitutes to create a dairy-free or vegan-friendly version, although textures and flavors may vary slightly.

How should I decorate these cupcakes for a party?

The classic cream cheese frosting swirled on top is stunning on its own, but you can add chopped toasted nuts, a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, or even edible gold glitter for an extra festive touch. Mini pumpkin-shaped candies or cinnamon sticks make playful, seasonal toppers too.

Final Thoughts

Embracing the warmth and spice of fall has never been so delicious or fun as with this Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes Recipe. From mixing the batter to the moment that first flavorful bite melts in your mouth, it’s pure joy and comfort wrapped into one perfect little cupcake. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and watch how it becomes a treasured favorite in your baking lineup!