Name: Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Caramel Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ½ teaspoon ground cloves; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil; 1 cup (240ml) canned pumpkin puree; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar; ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream; ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar

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Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Caramel Frosting: The Ultimate Fall Dessert 🧁🎃🍁

1. Introduction

Welcome to the ultimate guide on crafting incredibly flavorful pumpkin spice cupcakes topped with decadent caramel frosting recipe. If you’re on the hunt for easy pumpkin cupcakes that capture the warm essence of autumn or seeking the nicest fall cupcake ideas for holiday parties, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Combining aromatic spices with luscious caramel, these pumpkin spice cupcakes are an ideal choice for cozy weekends or festive gatherings. Our detailed step-by-step instructions will guide you through baking moist, spiced cupcakes and enhancing them with rich, buttery caramel frosting to impress guests and loved ones alike.

2. Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes

1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon ground cloves
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
1 cup (240ml) canned pumpkin puree (preferably pure pumpkin, not pie filling)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3. Ingredients for Caramel Frosting

1 cup (200g) light brown sugar
½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups (240g) powdered sugar

4. Step-by-Step Baking Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes

4.1. Prepare Your Oven and Cupcake Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners to prevent sticking, which helps ensure your fall cupcake ideas turn out perfect and professional-looking.

4.2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This flavorful blend provides the essential warm spice profile that makes easy pumpkin cupcakes so inviting.

4.3. Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the sugar and eggs until well combined. Add the vegetable oil, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. This step ensures your pumpkin spice cupcakes stay moist and tender with rich flavor, perfect for fall cupcake ideas.

4.4. Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the cupcakes fluffy and light. This method preserves the perfect crumb for these seasonal treats.

4.5. Fill and Bake

Using an ice cream scoop or spoon, fill each cupcake liner about ¾ full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before applying frosting to prevent melting.

5. Making the Caramel Frosting

5.1. Prepare the Caramel Base

Combine the light brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly to dissolve the sugar. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. This creates a rich caramel layer perfect for caramel frosting recipe.

5.2. Cool the Caramel

Remove from heat and allow the caramel to cool for about 10 minutes. Ensure it’s warm but not hot, so it blends seamlessly into the frosting without melting it.

5.3. Whip the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, gradually beat the powdered sugar into the cooled caramel mixture along with vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth, creamy, and spreadable. For better stability, chill the frosting slightly before decorating your cupcakes. For additional inspiration, check out ourlight pumpkin muffin recipe for fresh ideas.

6. Assembling Your Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Caramel Frosting

Once your cupcakes are completely cooled, generously pipe or spread the luscious caramel frosting on top. For an elegant finishing touch, drizzle extra caramel or sprinkle a dash of cinnamon. These fall cupcake ideas are perfect for Thanksgiving or any autumn celebration, bringing cozy flavors to your dessert table.

7. Storage Tips and Serving Suggestions

Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days for longer freshness. Before serving, allow cupcakes to come to room temperature for optimal flavor and texture. Pair these delightful easy pumpkin cupcakes with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai to enhance the seasonal experience.

8. Additional Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes

Always use 100% pure pumpkin puree—not pumpkin pie filling—to get the genuine flavor.
Make sure cupcakes are completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting the caramel topping.
Adjust frosting consistency by adding more powdered sugar or caramel, based on your preference.
Enhance presentation with toppings like chopped pecans, toasted coconut, or whipped cream for extra fall charm.
For convenience, consider using a stand mixer like the KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer to streamline preparation.

9. Conclusion

In conclusion, pumpkin spice cupcakes with caramel frosting are a delicious and festive way to celebrate the flavors of autumn. This recipe pairs the warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves with the sweetness of rich caramel, creating an irresistible treat for holiday gatherings or weekend indulgence. Whether you’re baking for family or friends, these fall cupcake ideas are sure to be a hit. Try this detailed recipe today and enjoy the perfect balance of seasonal spices, moist cake, and luscious caramel frosting!

Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Caramel Frosting