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As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of pumpkin-flavored desserts wafting through the kitchen. Pumpkin has become a quintessential flavor during the fall and winter months, evoking memories of warm gatherings, cozy evenings, and the joy of the holiday season. Among the myriad of pumpkin recipes, Festive Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes stand out as an irresistible treat that combines the rich flavors of pumpkin with a delightful array of warm spices and a luscious creamy frosting. These cupcakes not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also bring a touch of seasonal cheer to any occasion, whether it's a holiday party, a family gathering, or simply a cozy night in.

Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes

Embrace the cozy spirit of autumn with these Festive Spiced Pumpkin Cupcakes! Bursting with rich pumpkin flavor and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, these moist treats are perfect for any holiday gathering or cozy evening at home. Topped with tangy cream cheese frosting, they make a delightful indulgence that brings joy and warmth to your celebrations. Dive into this simple, step-by-step recipe and fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of fall!
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Ingredients
  

For the Cupcakes:

1 cup canned pumpkin puree

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1/2 cup vegetable oil

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

4 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1-2 tablespoons milk (optional, for consistency)

A pinch of cinnamon for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.

    Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk together until smooth and well blended.

      Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves), and salt.

        Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

          Fill Cupcake Liners: Evenly distribute the batter into the prepared muffin pan, filling each liner about 2/3 full.

            Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer the cupcakes to a wire rack to cool completely.

              Prepare the Frosting: While the cupcakes are cooling, make the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

                Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are fully cool, generously frost each with the cream cheese frosting using a spatula or piping bag.

                  Garnish: Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top of each frosted cupcake for an extra touch of flavor and decoration.

                    Serve & Enjoy: Serve these delightful spiced pumpkin cupcakes at your next gathering or enjoy them as a cozy treat at home!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 40 minutes | 12 cupcakes