Name: Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon Kosher salt; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 cup pumpkin puree; ½ cup light brown sugar, packed; ½ cup granulated sugar; ½ cup canola oil; 2 eggs; 8 Tablespoons butter, softened; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 4 cups powdered sugar, more as needed; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons maple extract

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 51 reviews

If you crave the cozy flavors of fall wrapped up in a soft, moist cupcake, then this Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is going to become your new obsession. Imagine tender pumpkin-spiced cake bursting with warm spices, perfectly balanced by a luscious, tangy maple-infused cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. It’s an irresistible treat that’s surprisingly simple to whip up yet impressive enough to share at any gathering. These cupcakes capture the essence of autumn in every bite, making them a delightful staple for the season or any time you want a comforting sweet fix.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of baking ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface. There are 13 containers and items, including a jar of tan brown sugar, a jar of white granulated sugar, a clear glass jug with light yellow oil, a small jar of salt, a white bowl filled with bright orange pumpkin puree in the center, a small white dish containing brown cinnamon powder, two white eggs placed side by side, a stick of butter with its wrapper partially open, a small white bowl of soy sauce or vanilla extract, a small spice jar with cinnamon powder, a block of cream cheese on shiny silver foil in the bottom middle, a large white bowl filled with white flour, and a large jar containing white powdered sugar. All containers are white in color or clear glass, creating a clean and organized look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind these cupcakes lies in the straightforward ingredients that come together harmoniously to create amazing taste and texture. Each component plays a key role, from the fragrant spices to the smooth cream cheese frosting enhanced with just the right hint of maple.

1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cupcake, providing structure and tenderness.
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: A blend of warming spices that gives these cupcakes their quintessential fall flavor.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise beautifully for a light, airy texture.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidic pumpkin to give lift and softness.
½ teaspoon Kosher salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors perfectly.
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds an extra layer of warmth and aroma to the batter.
1 cup pumpkin puree: Moisturizes and infuses the batter with true pumpkin goodness.
½ cup light brown sugar, packed: Brings a rich caramel note and natural sweetness.
½ cup granulated sugar: Provides balanced sweetness and helps achieve the right crumb.
½ cup canola oil: Keeps the cupcakes tender and moist without overpowering flavor.
2 eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the tender crumb.
8 tablespoons butter, softened: Key for a creamy, rich frosting texture.
8 ounces cream cheese, softened: Adds tanginess and smoothness in the frosting.
4 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfect consistency.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Deepens the overall flavor profile of the frosting.
2 teaspoons maple extract: Delivers the signature maple flavor that makes this frosting special.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Dry Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. Then, whisk together the dry ingredients — flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon — in a small bowl. This mix will infuse your cupcakes with those warm, comforting spices right from the start.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, blend the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, canola oil, and eggs. This mixture will bring moisture and sweetness while keeping the cupcakes nice and tender. Once everything is well combined, gently mix in the dry ingredients until just incorporated to avoid overmixing and ensuring a soft crumb.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about halfway to two-thirds full. This ensures they have room to rise without spilling over. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan briefly before transferring to a wire rack for complete cooling — this will help the frosting set beautifully.

Step 4: Make the Maple Cream Cheese Frosting

For the signature frosting, beat softened butter and cream cheese together until light and fluffy. Slowly add the powdered sugar, beating constantly, until the mixture becomes thick and smooth. Finally, stir in vanilla and maple extracts, tasting as you go to get that perfect balance of sweet and tangy with a lovely maple touch. If the frosting is too soft, add a bit more powdered sugar for the right spreading consistency.

Step 5: Frost and Finish

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread the maple cream cheese frosting on top. Using a 1M piping tip makes for gorgeous swirls, but a simple knife spread works just as well for a homemade charm. The frosting provides the perfect finishing touch, making these cupcakes irresistible.

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

The image shows several golden-brown cupcakes arranged on a white rectangular plate placed on a white marbled surface. Each cupcake has one layer of fluffy, light brown frosting swirled on top in a tall, smooth spiral with soft peaks. The cupcakes have a slightly textured, moist cake base with a ribbed white paper liner around the sides. In the background, there are blurred orange pumpkins adding a warm, autumn feel to the composition. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your presentation by topping cupcakes with a light sprinkle of cinnamon, a few toasted pecans, or a drizzle of real maple syrup. These simple additions add texture and an extra layer of fall flavor that will impress your guests and elevate each bite.

Side Dishes

Pair these cupcakes with a warm cup of spiced chai tea, a pumpkin latte, or even a glass of cold milk. The creamy, rich frosting and spiced pumpkin base shine even more when accompanied by a comforting beverage, making for a delightful snack or dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, arrange your cupcakes on a wooden tray lined with autumn leaves or present them individually in mini pumpkin-shaped boxes for gifting. You can also add edible gold leaf or a light dusting of cocoa powder for an elegant twist whether for a party or cozy family gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The maple cream cheese frosting is perishable, so chilling helps keep it stable and tasting great for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted pumpkin cupcakes by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw completely and apply the frosting fresh for best results. Frosted cupcakes can also be frozen but should be tightly covered and thawed slowly in the fridge to avoid frosting separation.

Reheating

When ready to eat chilled cupcakes, bring them to room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you prefer them warm, briefly microwave an unfrosted cupcake for 10 to 15 seconds and then frost. Avoid reheating frosted cupcakes in the microwave to prevent the frosting from melting.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin puree for this recipe?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree is a convenient and excellent option that works perfectly for these cupcakes. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which contains extra spices and sugars.

What can I substitute for maple extract in the frosting?

If you don’t have maple extract, vanilla extract alone will still yield a delicious frosting. You could also try a small amount of maple syrup, though the consistency might be slightly thinner.

Are these cupcakes gluten-free?

This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free as written. However, you could experiment with a gluten-free flour blend, making sure it is one that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour for best results.

How do I prevent the cupcakes from drying out?

Using oil in the batter instead of butter helps keep these cupcakes extra moist. Also, avoid overbaking by testing with a toothpick early, and store leftovers properly in airtight containers.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Yes, the maple cream cheese frosting can be made a day in advance and refrigerated. Bring it to room temperature and re-whip briefly before frosting the cupcakes for a smooth, creamy spread.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about sinking your teeth into a perfectly spiced pumpkin cupcake topped with that dreamy maple cream cheese frosting. This Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe brings cozy autumn vibes straight to your kitchen with every delicious bite. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll be your go-to treat for the season and beyond. Go ahead, bake a batch, and share the warm love with family and friends!