Pumpkin Spice Caramel Cupcakes with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting
Celebrate the rich, cozy flavors of autumn with our delightful Pumpkin Spice Caramel Cupcakes. These cupcakes capture the essence of fall with warm spices and a sumptuous caramel filling, finished off with a smooth and creamy maple cream cheese frosting. This recipe is a surefire way to bring the essence of the season into your kitchen and onto your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These cupcakes are a dream come true for anyone who loves fall flavors. With the perfect balance of spices and the richness of caramel, they’re not only flavorful but also easy to prepare. The recipe is family-friendly, making it an ideal choice for baking with kids or sharing with loved ones. Plus, the comforting aroma of pumpkin and spices fills your home with a heartwarming scent that signifies autumn’s arrival.
Ingredients
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Maple Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 3 tbsp pure maple syrup
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Necessary Tools
– Muffin tin
– Cupcake liners
– Medium and large mixing bowls
– Whisk and spoon
– Paring knife
– Wire rack
– Electric mixer (for frosting)
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
For a healthier twist, swap the vegetable oil for coconut oil or applesauce. You can also add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a crunchy texture. If you’re a fan of chocolate, mix in chocolate chips for a sweeter touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well blended.
4. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack.
8. Once cooled, use a paring knife to cut a small hole in the center of each cupcake and fill with caramel sauce.
9. For the frosting, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth, gradually adding the powdered sugar. Stir in the maple syrup and vanilla extract until fully combined.
10. Frost the cooled cupcakes with the maple cream cheese frosting, and drizzle additional caramel sauce on top if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these cupcakes with a warm cup of chai tea or a latte to enhance the spices. They also make an excellent complement to a fall-themed brunch spread.
Pro Tips for Success
– Ensure your cream cheese and butter are softened for smoother frosting.
– Allow cupcakes to cool completely before filling and frosting to prevent melting.
– If your frosting is too runny, add more powdered sugar until the desired consistency is achieved.
Storing and Reheating
Store these cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, bring them to room temperature before serving.
FAQ Section
– Can I use homemade caramel? Yes, homemade caramel works beautifully!
– Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free? Substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend to make them suitable for celiac diets.
Conclusion
These Pumpkin Spice Caramel Cupcakes with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting are a delightful way to embrace the fall season. Simple to make and bursting with flavor, they’re perfect for gatherings, or simply indulging in a personal autumn treat. We encourage you to bake them, share your creations, and let us know what you think by tagging us on social media.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (one cupcake):
Calories: Approx. 290
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 15g
Sugars: 23g
