Pumpkin Cupcakes Recipe – Moist, Fluffy & Perfect for Fall Baking

Nothing says fall like the warm aroma of pumpkin and spices filling your kitchen. This Pumpkin Cupcakes Recipe delivers moist, fluffy, and delicious cupcakes with rich pumpkin flavor and cozy spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, these cupcakes are perfect for autumn gatherings, Thanksgiving desserts, or just a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee. Easy to make and bursting with seasonal flavors, this recipe is a must-try for any pumpkin lover.

Nutrition & Instructions

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Time: 20 minutes
• Resting Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Dessert
• Servings: 12 cupcakes
• Calories per Serving: ~280 kcal

Equipment

• Muffin tin
• Cupcake liners
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Wire cooling rack
• Piping bag and tip (optional for frosting)

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ½ tsp ginger
• ¼ tsp cloves (optional for extra spice)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup whole milk

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp cinnamon (optional for extra flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine and Add Milk

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Slowly stir in the milk, ensuring a smooth batter.

Step 5: Fill and Bake

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about ¾ full. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool the Cupcakes

Remove from the oven and let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting

While the cupcakes cool, make the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until fluffy. Mix in vanilla extract and cinnamon.

Step 8: Frost and Serve

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them using a piping bag or a spatula. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Best Results

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensures smooth mixing and even texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter – Mix until just combined to keep cupcakes light and fluffy.
• Let Cupcakes Cool Completely – Prevents frosting from melting.
• Add a Garnish – Sprinkle with cinnamon or top with a candied pecan for extra flair.

Pairing Suggestions

These pumpkin cupcakes pair well with:

• A warm chai latte or spiced apple cider
• A drizzle of caramel sauce
• A sprinkle of chopped nuts for added crunch

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Cupcakes Recipe is the ultimate fall dessert—easy to make, packed with flavor, and topped with a creamy, dreamy frosting. Whether for a special occasion or a casual treat, these cupcakes will impress every pumpkin lover. Try them today and bring the taste of autumn to your kitchen!