Plated pumpkin spice cupcakes with cream cheese frosting ready to serve for cozy fall gatherings

Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes Recipe

There’s nothing better than the smell of pumpkin and cinnamon baking in the kitchen on a crisp autumn morning. These Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes are soft moist and perfectly spiced my favorite little treat for cozy evenings or holiday gatherings. And if you’re a pumpkin lover you’ll definitely want to try my Pumpkin Bread Recipe too another easy comforting fall favorite

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Spice Cupcake Recipe

Soft and moist cupcakes full of warm autumn spices
Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
Creamy frosting adds the perfect balance of sweetness and spice
Perfect for cozy evenings holiday gatherings or a little personal treat
Full of comforting fall flavors that everyone will love
If you enjoy pumpkin desserts try my Alabama Pumpkin Bread recipe, another easy fall favorite

Soft and moist pumpkin spice cupcake recipe with creamy cream cheese frosting on a cozy autumn-themed table

Ingredients You Will Need

All-purpose flour helps give structure and a soft texture to cupcakes
Baking powder makes cupcakes rise and stay fluffy
Baking soda helps balance acidity and lightens the batter
Salt enhances the flavors of all ingredients
Brown sugar adds natural sweetness and moistness
Pumpkin puree adds natural moisture, fiber and fall flavor
Olive oil keeps cupcakes soft and tender
Pumpkin pie spice adds warm autumn flavor with cinnamon nutmeg and cloves
Cinnamon enhances spice and aroma
Vanilla extract adds sweetness and depth of flavor
Eggs provide structure, richness and help bind ingredients
Cream cheese frosting adds creamy sweet topping and balances the spice

For Frosting

Cream cheese adds creamy, tangy flavor and smooth texture
Unsalted butter adds richness and helps the frosting hold its shape
Powdered sugar adds sweetness and a smooth consistency
Vanilla extract adds depth of flavor and enhances sweetness
Salt Balances sweetness and enhances overall taste

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes

Start by preheating your oven to 350f and line your cupcake pan with liners. I have found this helps the cupcakes bake evenly and makes cleanup easy.
Bring your eggs to room temperature by placing them in warm water for 10 minutes. This small trick makes your batter smoother and your cupcakes extra tender.
In a medium bowl gently whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until everything is evenly combined. This simple step ensures your cupcakes have a soft, tender crumb every time.
In a large bowl, mix brown sugar and pumpkin puree until smooth. This is where the pumpkin flavor really shines and keeps the cupcakes moist.
Add olive oil, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and vanilla extract and mix gently. I love using pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon for that warm, cozy autumn flavor.
Add the eggs one at a time and mix until everything is combined. This ensures your cupcakes are light and not dense. I always do this step slowly for the best results.
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined. Overmixing can make cupcakes tough and dense.

Pouring spiced pumpkin batter into cupcake liners for perfectly domed pumpkin spice cupcakes

Fill cupcake liners almost to the top leaving about a half-inch space. I like filling them full so they bake with a nice dome on top.
Bake for 20 to 23 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with a few crumbs. Every oven is different so check a little early. I’ve baked these many times and this timing works perfectly.
Allow the cupcakes to cool fully on a wire rack before adding frosting. This helps the cream cheese frosting stay smooth and prevents it from melting into the warm cupcakes.
Frost with cream cheese frosting generously and enjoy these soft, moist, spiced pumpkin cupcakes. They are perfect for cozy fall afternoons and festive gatherings.

How to Make Cream Cheese Frosting

In a large bowl beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. This makes the frosting soft and easy to spread
Gradually add powdered sugar a little at a time while mixing on low speed.
Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt and mix until fully combined. The vanilla adds depth and the salt balances the sweetness
Once creamy and smooth, frost your cooled cupcakes generously. The frosting adds a sweet tangy finish that pairs perfectly with the warm pumpkin spices

Frosting soft moist pumpkin spice cupcakes with creamy tangy cream cheese frosting

Pro Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes

Use room temperature eggs. This makes your batter smooth and the cupcakes soft
Measure ingredients carefully, beginners often add too much flour or sugar, which can change the texture
Mix wet and dry ingredients gently, do not overmix or cupcakes can become dense
Line your cupcake pan with paper liners. This makes it easier to remove cupcakes without breaking
Fill cupcake liners almost full so cupcakes rise nicely and get a dome shape
Check cupcakes a few minutes before the suggested baking time ovens can bake differently
Let cupcakes cool completely before frosting to keep the cream cheese frosting smooth and creamy
Taste and adjust spices if needed. Beginners can start with the suggested pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon and increase next time if desired

Storage Tips

Store cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for 1–2 days to keep them soft and moist
Make the cream cheese frosting a day ahead and bring it to room temperature before spreading
Fully frosted cupcakes can be refrigerated for a day then served at room temperature for the best flavor
Freeze unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 1 month then thaw and frost before serving
Keep cupcakes away from heat or direct sunlight to maintain a moist tender texture and prevent frosting from melting

Recommended Equipment I used

Mixing bowls	Measuring cups and spoons
Hand mixer	Digital kitchen scale
Cupcake Liners	Cupcake pan
Spatula	Cooling rack

FAQs About Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes you can but make sure to cook and puree the pumpkin first for soft, moist, spiced pumpkin cupcakes full of cozy autumn flavor.

How long do pumpkin cupcakes stay fresh?

At room temperature in an airtight container they stay soft and moist for 1–2 days in the fridge up to 4–5 days, keeping your pumpkin cupcakes tender and flavorful.

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and the cupcakes will still be soft, spiced, and full of pumpkin flavor.

What frosting goes best with pumpkin cupcakes?

Cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly with warm, spiced pumpkin cupcakes adding a creamy tangy sweetness

Can I make the cupcakes ahead for a party or cozy fall gathering?

Absolutely bake them a day or two in advance and store in an airtight container or freeze unfrosted for longer keeping your soft, moist pumpkin cupcakes ready to enjoy

Final Thoughts on the Best Pumpkin Spice Cupcake Recipe

These Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes are soft, moist, and full of warm autumn spices, topped with creamy cream cheese frosting making them perfect for beginners and cozy fall gatherings. I’ve tested this recipe to ensure every cupcake is light, fluffy, and full of pumpkin flavor. If you try this recipe, share your thoughts and pictures in the comments below.