Pumpkin Spice Cupcake Delight

Name: Pumpkin Spice Cupcake Delight
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 12 cupcakes
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 cup canned pumpkin puree; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon milk (if needed for consistency)

Highlighted under: Sweet Treats

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of fall with these delightful pumpkin spice cupcakes, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting.

Created by

Lara

Last updated on 2026-01-03T00:58:30.742Z

These Pumpkin Spice Cupcake Delights are the perfect treat to welcome the autumn season. With a blend of warm spices and pumpkin puree, each bite brings comfort and joy. Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, these cupcakes are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

        Why You'll Love These Cupcakes
        Warm spices that evoke the essence of fall
Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Topped with creamy and decadent cream cheese frosting

      

The Perfect Fall Treat

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, nothing captures the essence of fall quite like pumpkin spice. These cupcakes are a celebration of the season, combining the rich flavors of pumpkin with a blend of warm spices that will transport you to a cozy autumn afternoon. Whether enjoyed at a festive gathering or as a sweet treat for yourself, these pumpkin spice cupcakes are sure to evoke fond memories of hayrides and harvest festivals.

The addition of pumpkin puree not only enhances the flavor but also contributes to the moistness of each cupcake. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweet and spicy, making it an irresistible choice for those who love comfort food. Each bite is a delightful reminder of everything we cherish about fall.

A Frosting That Steals the Show

No pumpkin spice cupcake is complete without a generous dollop of cream cheese frosting. This creamy topping adds a luxurious touch, perfectly complementing the spices in the cupcake. The tangy flavor of the cream cheese balances the sweetness, creating a harmonious blend that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Making the frosting is a breeze, requiring just a few simple ingredients. With its smooth texture and rich flavor, this frosting elevates the cupcakes to a whole new level. Feel free to get creative with your decoration—whether it's a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or a pecan on top, the finishing touches make these cupcakes truly special.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These pumpkin spice cupcakes are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for various occasions. From Halloween parties to Thanksgiving dessert tables, they are a crowd-pleaser that will delight guests of all ages. Their festive appearance and inviting aroma will draw people in, while the flavors keep them coming back for more.

If you're looking to impress during the fall season, these cupcakes are an excellent choice. They can also be easily customized with different toppings or fillings, allowing you to put your unique spin on this classic recipe. Share them with friends, family, or coworkers, and watch as they become an instant favorite.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon milk (if needed for consistency)

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results!

Instructions

Prepare the Cupcake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake tin with paper liners. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. In another bowl, mix the vegetable oil, eggs, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.

Bake the Cupcakes

Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with the batter. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until well combined and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk to reach your desired consistency.

Frost the Cupcakes

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting. Decorate with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or a pecan on top if desired.

Enjoy your Pumpkin Spice Cupcake Delights with a cup of coffee or tea!

Storage Tips

To keep your pumpkin spice cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, especially if the cream cheese frosting is applied. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving to fully enjoy their delightful flavors.

If you have leftover cupcakes, they can also be frozen for later enjoyment. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to indulge, simply thaw them in the refrigerator or at room temperature, and frost them as desired.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to experiment with this pumpkin spice cupcake recipe! Add chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor, or incorporate nuts like walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture. You can also swap out the cream cheese frosting for a simple vanilla buttercream or a chocolate ganache if you prefer a different taste.

For those who enjoy a hint of citrus, consider adding the zest of an orange or lemon to the cupcake batter. This brightens the flavor and adds a refreshing twist to the traditional pumpkin spice profile. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, but make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin until smooth.

→ How do I store leftover cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Yes, you can freeze the cupcakes without frosting for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of cream cheese for the frosting?

You can use mascarpone cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.