Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, moist Thanksgiving pumpkin cupcake, where the sweet aroma of spices dances through the air and the cream cheese frosting adds that perfect touch of indulgence. sweet potato dessert options The first bite transports you to cozy family gatherings, laughter echoing around the table, and that unmistakable feeling of gratitude filling the room.
Thanksgiving pumpkin cupcakes are not just desserts; they are little bundles of joy that celebrate the season. Picture this: it’s a crisp autumn day, leaves crunching beneath your feet, and you realize these cupcakes are a must-have for every holiday gathering. pumpkin cupcakes for fall baking They promise an explosion of flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds—just try to resist!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Thanksgiving pumpkin cupcakes are easy to make and packed with fall flavors
- The rich color and delightful aroma make them visually stunning on any dessert table
- Plus, they are versatile enough to be enjoyed as a snack or dessert
- You can customize toppings to suit everyone’s taste preferences!
I once made these cupcakes for my family’s Thanksgiving dinner, and let me tell you, the reactions were priceless. My cousin declared them “life-changing,” while my grandma simply nodded in approval with her mouth full.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this a delicious dessert option recipe.
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Pumpkin Puree: Use canned or homemade puree; just ensure there’s no added sugar.
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Sugar: A blend of granulated and brown sugar gives depth to the sweetness.
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All-Purpose Flour: Standard flour works best for fluffy cupcakes.
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Eggs: Ensure they’re at room temperature for better mixing.
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Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leavening agents help your cupcakes rise beautifully.
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Cinnamon: Freshly ground cinnamon enhances warmth and flavor.
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Nutmeg & Ginger: These spices add an extra kick that screams fall!
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Salt: Just a pinch balances out the sweetness.
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Oil: Use vegetable or canola oil for moisture without overpowering flavors.
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Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients: Cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract combine for the ultimate topping!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this a festive drink recipe recipe.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin pan with cupcake liners—this is where the magic happens.
Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until well combined. The aroma should transport you straight to grandma’s kitchen.
Combine Wet Ingredients : In another bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until smooth. This creamy mixture should look inviting.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures : Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ones using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want fluffy cupcakes here.
Fill Muffin Pan : Spoon batter into prepared muffin pan filling each liner about two-thirds full. They need room to rise like our hopes for dessert!
Bake Until Perfect : Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool slightly before transferring them onto wire racks—try not to eat them all right away!
Frost Those Cupcakes : While cooling completely, whip up your cream cheese frosting by beating together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until fluffy. Go wild with it!
Strong>The Final Touches : Once cooled completely, frost each cupcake generously with your cream cheese frosting. You might want to add some cinnamon on top for decoration!
Now you have delicious Thanksgiving pumpkin cupcakes ready to impress family and friends! Enjoy these tender delights with loved ones while creating new memories around the table this holiday season! mini pineapple upside-down cakes.
You Must Know
- When making Thanksgiving pumpkin cupcakes, ensure your pumpkin puree is fresh for optimal flavor
- The aroma of spices baking will fill your kitchen with warmth and comfort, making everyone eager to dig in
- These little delights are perfect for any holiday gathering
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the batter. Mix dry ingredients separately before adding them to the wet mixture for an even distribution of spices and flavors.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out traditional spices like cinnamon or nutmeg with ginger or cardamom for a unique twist. decadent chocolate chip cookies Add chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture and flavor if desired.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For best results, reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter that mixes well
- Avoid overmixing to prevent dense cupcakes; mix until just combined
- Garnish with cream cheese frosting or whipped cream to elevate your dessert game!
The first time I made these Thanksgiving pumpkin cupcakes, my niece declared them “better than pie,” which was a victory I’ll cherish forever.

FAQ
Can I use canned pumpkin puree?
Yes, canned pumpkin puree works perfectly for Thanksgiving pumpkin cupcakes.
How do I make my cupcakes moist?
Ensure you don’t overbake them; check for doneness around 20 minutes.
What can I substitute for eggs?
Applesauce or mashed bananas work well as egg substitutes in this recipe.
Thanksgiving Pumpkin Cupcakes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Thanksgiving pumpkin cupcakes are the perfect blend of cozy fall flavors and festive fun. These moist, spiced treats topped with rich cream cheese frosting will captivate your family and friends, making them a must-have for your holiday celebrations. With just the right amount of sweetness and a hint of nostalgia, each bite brings warmth and joy to your Thanksgiving table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/4 cup butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin pan with cupcake liners.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until smooth.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fill each cupcake liner two-thirds full with batter and bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cool slightly before transferring to wire racks. Prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until fluffy.
- Frost cooled cupcakes generously.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cupcake (70g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg



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