Pumpkin Cupcakes : Easy Pumpkin Spice Cupcake Recipe for Fall Baking

Nothing says autumn comfort quite like a batch of freshly baked pumpkin cupcakes. These moist, fluffy, spice-packed treats are a must-have during the crisp months of fall. Perfectly balanced with pumpkin puree and warm spices, topped with creamy frosting, and ideal for gatherings, these cupcakes check every box on your fall baking recipes list.

If you’re hunting for pumpkin cupcake recipes to add to your seasonal lineup, this guide has you covered. From the ingredient breakdown and baking tips to storage hacks and serving ideas, we’ll walk you through everything you need to bake the perfect pumpkin recipes dessert. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family night or preparing Thanksgiving desserts, these cupcakes are guaranteed to please.

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Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes

To achieve the best results, use fresh ingredients and measure carefully. Here’s the full list you’ll need:

For the Cupcakes

• 1 2/3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or 1 tsp cinnamon + 1/2 tsp nutmeg + 1/2 tsp ginger + pinch cloves)
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2/3 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3–4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for spiced frosting)

Yield: About 12–14 cupcakes.

For more pumpkin inspiration, try pairing these with pumpkin truffles or pumpkin protein muffins for a full fall dessert spread.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Here are the tools to make baking seamless:

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 12-cup muffin tin
• Cupcake liners
• Wire cooling rack
• Piping bag with tip (optional, for decorative frosting)

For another simple seasonal bake requiring just the basics, try our banana zucchini muffins—a fun snack idea for busy mornings.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pumpkin Cupcakes

Follow these easy steps to create perfect pumpkin cupcakes:

1. Preheat the oven
   Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.
2. Mix the dry ingredients
   In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Set aside.
3. Combine wet ingredients
   In a large bowl, whisk pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Combine wet and dry
   Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined. Don’t overmix—the batter should be smooth but not overworked.
5. Fill liners
   Scoop the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
6. Bake
   Bake for 18–22 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool
   Transfer cupcakes to a wire rack and let them cool completely before frosting.
8. Prepare frosting
   Beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon (if using), beating until fluffy.
9. Frost and decorate
   Spread or pipe frosting on cooled cupcakes. Dust with cinnamon, top with nuts, or add festive sprinkles.

Love these flavors? You’ll also enjoy our pumpkin cinnamon rolls, another autumn classic that’s rich and indulgent.

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Notes and Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Cupcakes

• Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Pie filling contains added sugar and spices that will throw off the balance.
• Bring eggs to room temperature for smoother batter incorporation.
• Don’t overmix—gentle folding ensures soft, tender cupcakes.
• Cool completely before frosting, or your cream cheese frosting will melt.
• Chill frosting slightly before piping to hold shape better.

For more foolproof baking ideas, check out vanilla pudding pumpkin bread—moist, easy, and perfect for sharing.

Why Pumpkin Cupcake Recipes Are Perfect for Fall

These cupcakes are autumn in every bite. With their soft pumpkin base, cozy spices, and creamy frosting, they’re the perfect balance of tasty baking and comforting flavors.

They also work beautifully across occasions:

• As Thanksgiving desserts
• For Halloween parties
• As sweet snacks recipes after school
• As a thoughtful homemade gift

Pumpkin is versatile—it’s why so many pumpkin recipes dessert ideas have become seasonal favorites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overfilling liners: Leads to overflow. Fill only 2/3 of the way.

• Skipping liners: Cupcakes often stick to the pan without them.
• Frosting too early: Warm cupcakes will melt cream cheese frosting.
• Too much spice: Pumpkin spice should complement, not overwhelm. Stick to the suggested amount.

For more easy baking recipes desserts, try our mini pumpkin bread with cinnamon swirl—a sweet yet balanced seasonal bake.

Fun Variations of Pumpkin Cupcake Recipes

• Chocolate chip pumpkin cupcakes: Fold in mini chocolate chips.
• Nut topping: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over frosting.
• Maple cream cheese frosting: Swap vanilla extract with maple extract.
• Mini pumpkin cupcakes: Use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized sweet snacks recipes.
• Caramel drizzle: Add salted caramel over frosting for a decadent twist.

Love mixing pumpkin with chocolate? You’ll adore our pumpkin brownies.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Cupcakes

These cupcakes store well and make excellent Thanksgiving desserts when prepped ahead:

• Room temperature: Unfrosted cupcakes last 2–3 days in an airtight container.
• Refrigerator: Frosted cupcakes last up to 5 days. Bring to room temp before serving.
• Freezer: Wrap unfrosted cupcakes individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before frosting.

For holiday prep, pair these with freezer-friendly favorites like freezer breakfast sandwiches.

Serving Ideas for Thanksgiving Desserts and Parties

Make your cupcakes shine on the dessert table with these ideas:

• Decorate with tiny fondant pumpkins or candy corn.
• Serve alongside pumpkin cheesecake truffles or apple fritter donuts for variety.
• Arrange on a tiered dessert stand with pumpkin twists.
• Package individually as fun baking recipes gifts for neighbors.

Pairings: What Goes Well with Pumpkin Cupcakes?

Pumpkin cupcakes pair beautifully with autumn drinks and snacks:

• A mug of hot apple cider
• Pumpkin spice latte or chai tea
• A glass of cold milk for kids
• Fresh fruit or fruit dip as a light side

For your dessert buffet, balance with savory options like stuffed acorn squash to round out the spread.

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FAQ – Pumpkin Cupcake Recipes

Can I make these cupcakes without frosting?
Yes, dust with powdered sugar or glaze lightly for a simpler version.

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?
Yes! Just make sure it’s thick and not watery.

What if I don’t have pumpkin spice?
Make your own using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.

Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just bake in batches for even results.

For more inspiration, browse our dessert recipe collection.

Final Thoughts – Celebrate the Season with Pumpkin Cupcakes

These pumpkin cupcakes embody everything we love about fall: cozy spices, moist cake, creamy frosting, and the joy of seasonal baking. They’re versatile enough for a casual sweet snack or elegant enough for your Thanksgiving desserts menu.

Bake them once, and they’ll quickly become part of your family’s holiday tradition. For more fall-inspired ideas, don’t miss our pumpkin cheesecake cookies or pumpkin dump cake.

So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and let’s celebrate the season one cupcake at a time.

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