Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup brown sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 2 large eggs; ⅓ cup vegetable oil; 8 oz cream cheese (full-fat); 2 cups powdered sugar

Published: November 4, 2025

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

This incredible Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting:

Pumpkin Puree: Use canned 100% pure pumpkin for convenience or roast your own pumpkins for a fresher flavor.
All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of your cupcakes; use a quality brand for the best texture.
Sugar: A mix of granulated and brown sugar enhances sweetness while adding depth to the flavor.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These leavening agents ensure your cupcakes rise perfectly and remain fluffy.
Cinnamon: This spice is essential for bringing out that classic pumpkin flavor we all adore.
Eggs: They bind everything together and contribute to the moisture content of the cupcakes.
Vegetable Oil: Instead of butter, oil keeps your cupcakes moist and tender without overpowering the flavor.
Cream Cheese: The star ingredient of the frosting; choose full-fat for the richest taste.
Powdered Sugar: This adds sweetness to the frosting while ensuring it has a smooth texture.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners so they don’t stick around like uninvited guests at your party.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This dry mix is where all the magic begins!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and pumpkin puree until well blended. Feel free to channel your inner rock star while mixing!

Step 4: Combine Both Mixtures

Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture using a spatula until just combined. Don’t overmix! We’re not trying to create gluten monsters here.

Step 5: Fill Cupcake Liners

Scoop batter into each cupcake liner about two-thirds full. Bake in preheated oven for about 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 6: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

While cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack, whip together cream cheese and powdered sugar until creamy and smooth. Once cooled down enough not to burn yourself (trust me on this), frost those beauties generously!

Transfer to plates and serve these delightful Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting at your next gathering or enjoy them solo; no judgment here!

You Must Know About Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

This showstopping Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix the dry ingredients first, then cream the butter and sugar before adding the eggs and pumpkin puree. Lastly, fold in the dry mix to achieve a smooth batter ready for baking.

Flavor Your Way

Want to spice things up? Swap out some of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour or add chocolate chips for a sweet twist. You can also experiment with spices like nutmeg or cloves to elevate the flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For best results, reheat them gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before serving.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

This professional-quality Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

I remember the first time I made these Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting; my friends devoured them within minutes! It was a cozy fall evening filled with laughter, and they couldn’t stop raving about how delicious they were.

FAQs

What are Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting are delightful baked treats made from fresh pumpkin puree, warm spices, and a rich cream cheese frosting. These cupcakes offer a moist and fluffy texture, perfect for fall baking or any festive occasion. The combination of pumpkin and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg creates a warm flavor profile, while the creamy frosting adds a sweet balance. Enjoy them for dessert, at parties, or as a cozy snack with coffee.

How do I store Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting?

To store Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting, place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you live in a warm climate, refrigerate the cupcakes to prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting. They can last for up to five days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing the cupcakes without frosting. Thaw them at room temperature and frost before serving for best results.

Can I make Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely make Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting ahead of time. Bake and cool the cupcakes completely before storing them in an airtight container. They can stay fresh for about three days at room temperature or up to one week in the fridge. For even longer storage, freeze the un-frosted cupcakes and thaw them when you’re ready to serve. This way, you can enjoy delicious treats without last-minute preparation stress.

What makes Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting unique?

Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting stand out because of their rich flavors and seasonal appeal. The use of real pumpkin puree gives these cupcakes moisture and a distinct taste that is hard to resist. The spices enhance the flavor profile, making each bite comforting and satisfying. Additionally, the tangy cream cheese frosting provides a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cupcake base, creating a perfect balance that elevates this treat above standard desserts.

Conclusion

In summary, Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting are an irresistible treat that combines warmth and sweetness in every bite. With their moist texture and flavorful spice blend topped with creamy frosting, they make for a perfect dessert option during fall or any celebration. Storing and preparing these cupcakes is simple, allowing you to indulge without hassle. Try making these delightful cupcakes today to experience their deliciousness firsthand!

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