Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes Recipe

If you love everything cozy and comforting about fall, then you absolutely need to make these Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes your new favorite treat. Combining the rich flavors of pumpkin puree with a warming medley of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, these cupcakes capture the essence of a pumpkin spice latte in every bite. Topped with a luscious espresso-infused buttercream frosting, Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes are the ideal way to celebrate the season – perfect for sharing or indulging all by yourself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes, you only need a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role in building the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that beautiful fall color that makes these cupcakes so irresistible.

• All-purpose flour: The base of your cupcake that provides structure and tenderness.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Essential leavening agents that help your cupcakes rise nice and fluffy.
• Salt and ground spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves): The soul of the pumpkin spice flavor, perfectly mixing warmth and depth.
• Canned pumpkin puree: Moisture and that unmistakable seasonal taste all wrapped into one smooth ingredient.
• Brown sugar: Adds sweetness with a hint of molasses, complementing the spices beautifully.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
• Unsalted butter: For moisture in the cake and a creamy base in the frosting.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
• Brewed espresso or strong coffee: Adds that iconic Pumpkin Spice Latte element with a subtle, energizing kick.
• Powdered sugar: For a smooth, sweet frosting that holds its shape.
• Instant espresso powder: Intensifies the coffee flavor in the frosting without extra liquid.
• Heavy cream: Helps achieve the perfect creamy, spreadable frosting texture.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Cupcake Liners

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake tin with 6 paper liners to make sure your cupcakes come out clean and easy to handle. Proper preparation goes a long way in baking success!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and all the warm spices – cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. This step ensures your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes get their signature spice blend folded evenly into every bite.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and brewed espresso until the mixture is silky smooth. This luscious, slightly coffee-flavored base is what gives these cupcakes their unique twist on the classic pumpkin spice flavor.

Step 4: Blend Dry Ingredients Into Wet

Slowly add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, stirring gently just until everything is combined. Remember, don’t overmix! Overworking the batter can lead to tough cupcakes instead of soft, tender ones.

Step 5: Fill and Bake

Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full to allow enough room for rising. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let them cool completely on a wire rack – patience here leads to perfect frosted cupcakes!

Step 6: Make the Espresso Buttercream Frosting

While your cupcakes cool, it’s frosting time. Beat softened unsalted butter in a bowl until it’s light and fluffy, then gradually add the powdered sugar, instant espresso powder, a pinch of salt, and heavy cream. Start with 1 tablespoon of cream and add more as needed until your frosting is smooth and spreadable. This espresso-infused frosting perfectly mirrors the coffee flavor found in your favorite pumpkin spice latte.

Step 7: Frost and Garnish

Once cupcakes have cooled, pipe or spread the decadent espresso buttercream on top. For extra flair and flavor, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or drizzle some caramel sauce over the frosting. Your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes are now ready to impress!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes

Garnishes

To bring out the best in your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes, keep garnishes simple yet seasonal. A light dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth and a comforting aroma. Alternatively, a drizzle of caramel sauce gives a lovely contrast of sweet and buttery notes that pairs beautifully with the espresso frosting.

Side Dishes

These cupcakes are perfect on their own but also pair wonderfully with a hot beverage. Think creamy lattes, rich chai teas, or even a smooth hot chocolate for an indulgent fall-inspired dessert spread. A crisp apple or pear salad with a touch of maple vinaigrette also complements the warm spices nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

Presentation makes these cupcakes feel extra special. Try placing them in decorative cupcake wrappers, or topping each cupcake with mini cinnamon sticks or espresso beans to hint at the flavors inside. For a casual gathering, a beautiful wooden tray lined with a cozy fall-themed napkin can make all the difference.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep them moist longer, refrigerate for up to 5 days, but be sure to bring them back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

You can freeze these cupcakes either frosted or unfrosted. For unfrosted cupcakes, wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. If frozen frosted, place the cupcakes on a tray in the freezer until hard, then wrap and store together to protect the frosting’s shape and texture.

Reheating

To enjoy your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes after freezing, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then bring to room temperature before eating. If desired, a few seconds in the microwave can warm them slightly, but be careful not to melt the frosting.

FAQs

Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso or brewed coffee?

Yes! While espresso offers a more concentrated flavor that really enhances the coffee notes, strong brewed coffee works just fine if you don’t have espresso on hand. Just make sure it’s strong enough to not water down the batter.

Is canned pumpkin puree necessary, or can I use fresh pumpkin?

Canned pumpkin puree is recommended because it’s smooth, moist, and consistent, which contributes to the perfect cupcake texture. If you want to use fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it first, then strain any excess liquid for best results.

Can I make these cupcakes vegan or gluten-free?

Absolutely! To go vegan, swap eggs for flax eggs or applesauce and use dairy-free butter and milk alternatives for the frosting. For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, but be mindful that the texture might differ slightly.

How long will the espresso buttercream frosting stay fresh?

The frosting will keep well for up to 3 days if stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Before frosting your cupcakes, make sure the buttercream is at room temperature and well-beaten for the best texture.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

Yes, adding chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can add a lovely crunch that complements the softness of the cupcakes. Mini chocolate chips would also be delightful for a bit of sweetness in each bite.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes capture all the magic and warmth of autumn in a deliciously moist, spiced cake with a creamy espresso frosting that feels like a hug in dessert form. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, I promise these cupcakes will turn into an instant favorite. So grab your ingredients and get ready to fill your kitchen with that cozy pumpkin spice aroma!

Print