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As the leaves begin to change color and the air turns crisp, the allure of pumpkin-flavored desserts becomes irresistible. Autumn is synonymous with cozy flavors and warm spices, making it the perfect season for indulging in sweet treats that evoke the essence of fall. Among these delightful offerings, pumpkin cream cheese cupcakes stand out as a seasonal favorite, boasting a rich, moist texture and a decadent frosting that pairs beautifully with the spiced cake. The recipe for Autumn Bliss Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cupcakes not only celebrates the classic flavors of the season but also serves as a heartwarming treat for gatherings, family celebrations, and festive occasions.

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cupcakes

Embrace the flavors of fall with these Autumn Bliss Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cupcakes. This delightful recipe blends the rich essence of pumpkin with warm spices, creating moist cupcakes topped with a creamy, tangy frosting. Perfect for gatherings, family celebrations, or simply indulging at home, these cupcakes are a heartwarming treat that captures the spirit of the season. Learn the steps to bake these seasonal favorites and enjoy a delicious taste of autumn!
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Ingredients
  

For the Cupcakes:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ teaspoon ground ginger

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup granulated sugar

½ cup packed brown sugar

½ cup vegetable oil

1 cup canned pumpkin puree (ensure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling)

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature

½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

4 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2-3 tablespoons heavy cream (optional for a creamier consistency)

Pinch of salt

For Optional Toppings:

Cinnamon sugar mix (combine 1 tablespoon granulated sugar with ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon)

Chopped pecans or walnuts for garnish

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by lining it with cupcake liners.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

      Combine Sugars and Oil: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Using a whisk or an electric mixer, mix these together until they are thoroughly combined.

        Add Pumpkin and Eggs: To the sugar and oil mixture, add the pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat everything together with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

          Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture. Mix just until everything is combined, being careful not to overmix—it's perfectly fine to have a few small lumps.

            Fill Muffin Tin: Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each liner about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.

              Bake: Place your muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. After baking, let the cupcakes cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                Make the Frosting: While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until you achieve a creamy and smooth texture. Gradually add the powdered sugar while mixing on low speed until everything is well combined. Incorporate the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. For a creamier frosting, add heavy cream a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

                  Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cool, generously frost each cupcake with the cream cheese frosting. You can use a piping bag for a decorative swirl or a spatula for a more rustic look.

                    Add Toppings: For an extra touch, sprinkle the tops with the cinnamon sugar mix and garnish with chopped pecans or walnuts, adding both texture and flavor.

                      Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 12

                        Presentation Tips: Arrange the frosted cupcakes on a beautiful platter, and consider using autumn-themed decorations such as mini pumpkins or colorful leaves around the base for a festive touch!