Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes Delightful Fall Treat

December 24, 2025November 28, 2025 by Emily

Fall is here, and that means it’s time for pumpkin spice everything! If you’re craving a sweet treat that brings the cozy flavors of the season, you’re in for a delight. These Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes combine rich pumpkin, warming spices, and a hint of coffee for a perfect bite. Follow along to learn how to whip up these tasty cupcakes and impress everyone at your next gathering!

Why I Love This Recipe

Delicious Flavor Combination: The rich taste of pumpkin, combined with warming spices and coffee, creates a cozy and nostalgic flavor perfect for fall.
Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels to enjoy homemade cupcakes.
Perfect for Any Occasion: These cupcakes are ideal for autumn gatherings, Halloween parties, or just a cozy afternoon treat with coffee.
Beautiful Presentation: The cream cheese frosting and festive cinnamon sprinkle add an eye-catching touch that makes these cupcakes irresistible.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

– 1 teaspoon baking powder

– ½ teaspoon baking soda

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

– ¼ teaspoon ground ginger

– ¼ teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients

– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

– 1 cup granulated sugar

– 2 large eggs, at room temperature

– 1 cup pumpkin puree

– ½ cup brewed coffee, cooled

– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Frosting Ingredients

– 1 cup powdered sugar

– 4 ounces cream cheese, softened

– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

– Whipped cream and ground cinnamon for garnish

When I create these Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes, I gather all my ingredients first. Having everything ready helps me stay focused. I use high-quality pumpkin puree. It gives the cupcakes a rich flavor. I also choose fresh spices for the best taste.

The dry ingredients mix together first. I whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices in a bowl. This step is key. It ensures even flavor throughout.

Next, I prepare the wet ingredients. Softened butter and sugar mix until fluffy. Eggs go in one at a time. I blend in the pumpkin, coffee, and vanilla. This mix brings the cozy fall flavors to life.

For the frosting, I whip cream cheese and powdered sugar. I add vanilla for extra taste. The frosting should be creamy and smooth. I like to top each cupcake with whipped cream and cinnamon. It makes them look extra special.

These ingredients come together to create a delightful treat. They capture the warmth of autumn in every bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

– Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)

– Line muffin tin with cupcake liners

Start by preheating your oven. This helps the cupcakes rise well. Lining the tin with cupcake liners keeps them from sticking. It makes cleanup easier, too.

Combine Dry Ingredients

– Whisk dry ingredients in a medium bowl

– Set aside for later use

Next, take a medium bowl. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Mixing them well ensures even flavor. Set this bowl aside for later.

Cream Butter and Sugar

– Beat softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy

– Add eggs, mixing one at a time

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to make it fluffy. This takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, add the eggs one at a time. Make sure to mix well after each egg.

Mix Wet Ingredients

– Blend in pumpkin puree, brewed coffee, and vanilla

Now, blend in the pumpkin puree, cooled brewed coffee, and vanilla. Mix until all the wet ingredients look smooth. This adds moisture and flavor to your cupcakes.

Combine All Ingredients

– Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture

– Stir gently until just combined

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet. Stir gently to combine them. Be careful not to overmix. This helps keep your cupcakes light and fluffy.

Bake Cupcakes

– Fill liners and bake for 18-20 minutes

– Cool on wire rack

Fill the cupcake liners about two-thirds full with batter. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick. Once baked, let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, move them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare Frosting

– Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth

– Frost cooled cupcakes and add toppings

While the cupcakes cool, make the frosting. Beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Once your cupcakes are cool, frost them generously. For a lovely finish, add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.

Tips & Tricks

Baking Tips

– Avoid overmixing for best texture. Mixing too much can make the cupcakes tough.

– Test for doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your cupcakes are ready.

Frosting Techniques

– Use a piping bag for decorative swirls. This makes your cupcakes look special and fun.

– Chill the frosting for easier spreading. A cold frosting stays put and is less messy.

Presentation Suggestions

– Serve on a decorative platter. A pretty dish makes your treats shine.

– Add seasonal decorations for visual appeal. Small pumpkins or leaves can bring a festive feel.

Pro Tips

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your eggs and butter to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and results in fluffier cupcakes.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until you no longer see dry flour. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes.
Cool Completely Before Frosting: Ensure your cupcakes are completely cool before adding the cream cheese frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and losing its shape.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding a pinch of allspice or cloves can give your cupcakes a unique twist!

Variations

Flavor Enhancements

You can make these cupcakes even better! Here are two fun ideas:

– Add chocolate chips for a mocha twist. The chocolate gives a deep, rich taste. It pairs so well with pumpkin and coffee.

– Incorporate nuts like pecans or walnuts. Chopped nuts add crunch and flavor. They also give a nice texture contrast.

Dietary Alternatives

Do you need a different option? Try these swaps:

– Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. This way, everyone can enjoy them. Just make sure you check the flour’s label for the best results.

– Substitute coconut cream for vegan frosting. It’s a tasty choice. It also makes the frosting creamy without dairy.

Mini Cupcake Option

Want something smaller? Mini cupcakes are a great idea! Here’s how to do it:

– Adjust baking time for mini cupcakes. Bake them for about 10-12 minutes. Check with a toothpick to see if they’re done.

– Perfect for bite-sized treats. These mini versions are great for parties or snacking. Plus, they’re easy to share!

Storage Info

Room Temperature

You can keep these cupcakes at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and soft.

Refrigeration

If you have frosted cupcakes, you can refrigerate them. They will stay good for up to 1 week. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container to avoid drying out.

Freezing

Want to save some for later? Freeze the un-frosted cupcakes. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just wrap them well to protect against freezer burn. When you’re ready, let them thaw before frosting.

FAQs

How do I make cupcakes moist?

To keep your cupcakes moist, use these tips:

– Use room temperature ingredients.

– Don’t overmix your batter.

– Add a bit of sour cream or yogurt.

– Bake just until done.

The right baking time is key. Overbaking makes them dry. Always check with a toothpick. It should come out clean but moist.

Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of puree?

Yes, you can use pumpkin pie filling. However, it has spices and sugar. You may need to reduce sugar in your recipe. Check the flavor balance before mixing.

Pumpkin puree has a pure pumpkin taste. It’s less sweet and allows more control. Use whichever suits your taste best.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in frosting?

For a different frosting option, try these:

– Mascarpone cheese for a rich taste.

– Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

– Coconut cream for a dairy-free choice.

Each option changes the flavor a bit. Mascarpone is smooth, while yogurt adds tang. Choose based on your needs and taste.

Can I add espresso to enhance flavor?

Yes, espresso can boost the flavor. Just be careful with the amount. Start with a tablespoon of brewed espresso. Mix it into the batter.

Espresso deepens the coffee notes in the cupcakes. It adds richness without making them too strong. Enjoy your flavorful creation!

In this blog post, I covered how to make delicious pumpkin cupcakes. We discussed the ingredients, including dry and wet components, as well as frosting. I also shared step-by-step instructions to guide you through the baking process. Remember to mix gently and check for doneness. You can try variations for fun flavors or dietary needs. With these tips, your cupcakes will turn out perfect every time. Enjoy baking and sharing these tasty treat

$- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking powder - ½ teaspoon baking soda - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg - ¼ teaspoon ground ginger - ¼ teaspoon salt - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened - 1 cup granulated sugar - 2 large eggs, at room temperature - 1 cup pumpkin puree - ½ cup brewed coffee, cooled - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1 cup powdered sugar - 4 ounces cream cheese, softened - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - Whipped cream and ground cinnamon for garnish When I create these Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes, I gather all my ingredients first. Having everything ready helps me stay focused. I use high-quality pumpkin puree. It gives the cupcakes a rich flavor. I also choose fresh spices for the best taste. The dry ingredients mix together first. I whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices in a bowl. This step is key. It ensures even flavor throughout. Next, I prepare the wet ingredients. Softened butter and sugar mix until fluffy. Eggs go in one at a time. I blend in the pumpkin, coffee, and vanilla. This mix brings the cozy fall flavors to life. For the frosting, I whip cream cheese and powdered sugar. I add vanilla for extra taste. The frosting should be creamy and smooth. I like to top each cupcake with whipped cream and cinnamon. It makes them look extra special. These ingredients come together to create a delightful treat. They capture the warmth of autumn in every bite. {{ingredient_image_2}} - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) - Line muffin tin with cupcake liners Start by preheating your oven. This helps the cupcakes rise well. Lining the tin with cupcake liners keeps them from sticking. It makes cleanup easier, too. - Whisk dry ingredients in a medium bowl - Set aside for later use Next, take a medium bowl. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Mixing them well ensures even flavor. Set this bowl aside for later. - Beat softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy - Add eggs, mixing one at a time In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to make it fluffy. This takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Then, add the eggs one at a time. Make sure to mix well after each egg. - Blend in pumpkin puree, brewed coffee, and vanilla Now, blend in the pumpkin puree, cooled brewed coffee, and vanilla. Mix until all the wet ingredients look smooth. This adds moisture and flavor to your cupcakes. - Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture - Stir gently until just combined Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet. Stir gently to combine them. Be careful not to overmix. This helps keep your cupcakes light and fluffy. - Fill liners and bake for 18-20 minutes - Cool on wire rack Fill the cupcake liners about two-thirds full with batter. Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick. Once baked, let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, move them to a wire rack to cool completely. - Beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth - Frost cooled cupcakes and add toppings While the cupcakes cool, make the frosting. Beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Once your cupcakes are cool, frost them generously. For a lovely finish, add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. - Avoid overmixing for best texture. Mixing too much can make the cupcakes tough. - Test for doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, your cupcakes are ready. - Use a piping bag for decorative swirls. This makes your cupcakes look special and fun. - Chill the frosting for easier spreading. A cold frosting stays put and is less messy. - Serve on a decorative platter. A pretty dish makes your treats shine. - Add seasonal decorations for visual appeal. Small pumpkins or leaves can bring a festive feel. Pro Tips Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your eggs and butter to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and results in fluffier cupcakes. Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until you no longer see dry flour. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes. Cool Completely Before Frosting: Ensure your cupcakes are completely cool before adding the cream cheese frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and losing its shape. Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding a pinch of allspice or cloves can give your cupcakes a unique twist! {{image_4}} You can make these cupcakes even better! Here are two fun ideas: - Add chocolate chips for a mocha twist. The chocolate gives a deep, rich taste. It pairs so well with pumpkin and coffee. - Incorporate nuts like pecans or walnuts. Chopped nuts add crunch and flavor. They also give a nice texture contrast. Do you need a different option? Try these swaps: - Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. This way, everyone can enjoy them. Just make sure you check the flour's label for the best results. - Substitute coconut cream for vegan frosting. It’s a tasty choice. It also makes the frosting creamy without dairy. Want something smaller? Mini cupcakes are a great idea! Here’s how to do it: - Adjust baking time for mini cupcakes. Bake them for about 10-12 minutes. Check with a toothpick to see if they’re done. - Perfect for bite-sized treats. These mini versions are great for parties or snacking. Plus, they’re easy to share! You can keep these cupcakes at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and soft. If you have frosted cupcakes, you can refrigerate them. They will stay good for up to 1 week. Just make sure to keep them in an airtight container to avoid drying out. Want to save some for later? Freeze the un-frosted cupcakes. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just wrap them well to protect against freezer burn. When you're ready, let them thaw before frosting. To keep your cupcakes moist, use these tips: - Use room temperature ingredients. - Don't overmix your batter. - Add a bit of sour cream or yogurt. - Bake just until done. The right baking time is key. Overbaking makes them dry. Always check with a toothpick. It should come out clean but moist. Yes, you can use pumpkin pie filling. However, it has spices and sugar. You may need to reduce sugar in your recipe. Check the flavor balance before mixing. Pumpkin puree has a pure pumpkin taste. It's less sweet and allows more control. Use whichever suits your taste best. For a different frosting option, try these: - Mascarpone cheese for a rich taste. - Greek yogurt for a lighter option. - Coconut cream for a dairy-free choice. Each option changes the flavor a bit. Mascarpone is smooth, while yogurt adds tang. Choose based on your needs and taste. Yes, espresso can boost the flavor. Just be careful with the amount. Start with a tablespoon of brewed espresso. Mix it into the batter. Espresso deepens the coffee notes in the cupcakes. It adds richness without making them too strong. Enjoy your flavorful creation! In this blog post, I covered how to make delicious pumpkin cupcakes. We discussed the ingredients, including dry and wet components, as well as frosting. I also shared step-by-step instructions to guide you through the baking process. Remember to mix gently and check for doneness. You can try variations for fun flavors or dietary needs. With these tips, your cupcakes will turn out perfect every time. Enjoy baking and sharing these tasty treats!$