Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Fall is hands down my favorite season—not just because of the crisp air and colorful leaves, but also because it’s the perfect time to indulge in cozy, comforting flavors.

And nothing screams autumn more than Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting.

These cupcakes are soft, moist, and bursting with warm spices, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that makes every bite irresistible.

Why I Love Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes

There’s something magical about pumpkin spice desserts. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves instantly transports me to cozy afternoons, hot drinks, and pumpkin-scented candles.

Making these cupcakes is my little fall ritual.

The pumpkin puree keeps the cake incredibly moist, and the spices give it that signature autumn flavor without being overpowering.

Ingredients

How to Make Pumpkin Cupcakes

Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Soft, fluffy pumpkin spice cupcakes topped with creamy, dreamy cream cheese frosting—perfect for fall gatherings, cozy nights, or holiday treats!

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 12

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Cupcakes:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ½ cup unsalted butter softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup pumpkin puree

Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter softened
• 3 –4 cups powdered sugar sifted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Method

 

1. Prep the oven and liners: I preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. This step makes cleanup a breeze.
2. 
3. Mix the dry ingredients: In a bowl, I whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and all the warm spices. The aroma already makes the kitchen feel like fall.
4. Cream the butter and sugar: Using a hand or stand mixer, I beat the butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. Then I add the eggs, one at a time, and stir in the vanilla and pumpkin puree until fully combined.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Overmixing can make cupcakes dense, so I stop as soon as I don’t see flour streaks.
6. Bake to perfection: I fill each cupcake liner about ⅔ full and bake for 20–25 minutes. I always do the toothpick test to ensure they’re perfectly baked. Once done, I let them cool completely before frosting.
7. Frosting magic: I whip the cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla. The frosting should be creamy and spreadable. Using a piping bag makes them look extra special, but a simple knife works perfectly too.

Notes

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Unfrosted cupcakes can be frozen for up to 3 months. Frost after thawing.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes

• Use fresh spices: Pre-ground spices are convenient, but fresh spices make a world of difference in flavor.

• Don’t overmix: To keep your cupcakes light and fluffy, mix the batter gently.

• Room temperature ingredients: Butter, cream cheese, and eggs at room temperature blend better and make your cupcakes smoother.

• Optional toppings: Sprinkle a little cinnamon or crushed pecans on top of the frosting for added texture and flavor.

Why These Cupcakes Are a Must-Try

Honestly, the combination of moist pumpkin cake and creamy frosting is unbeatable.

Every bite feels like fall in a cupcake, perfect for a cozy afternoon, a festive gathering, or just a little self-indulgence. Plus, they look adorable on a dessert table, making them a hit at parties or even for gifting.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a classic fall dessert that never disappoints, Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting are the way to go.

They’re easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and guaranteed to fill your home with that irresistible autumn aroma.

Trust me—you’ll find yourself making them on repeat all season long.