Name: Gingerbread Cupcakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups all-purpose flour (Can substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour if desired.); 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground ginger (Use fresh spices for better flavor.); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 0.25 teaspoon ground cloves; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 cups unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 2 large eggs (Can substitute flax eggs or applesauce for a vegan option.); 0.75 cups molasses; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (Can substitute with non-dairy cream cheese.); 0.5 cups unsalted butter, softened (Use non-dairy butter for a dairy-free version.); 4 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; a pinch of salt

Spread the love

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

As the chilly air wrapped around my small kitchen, I reminisced about the warm, spiced scents of the holidays that would dance through my grandmother’s house. Each year, she would whip up a batch of gingerbread cookies that left us all eagerly waiting, noses pressed to the oven door. It was during one particularly cozy winter afternoon, while trying to capture that cherished festive spirit, that I stumbled upon the idea of creating Gingerbread Cupcakes. These delightful treats are not only a nod to those cookies I loved but also an exciting twist a soft, fluffy cupcake adorned with the same amazing spices, topped with a creamy frosting that evokes the warmth of family gatherings. Every bite feels like a warm hug, making this recipe especially meaningful for my loved ones and me.

The Magic in This Recipe

What makes this recipe so special is its ability to blend tradition with a modern twist. These gingerbread cupcakes carry the rich flavors of molasses, ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, making them perfect for the holiday season or any cozy gathering. They are quick to prepare, loved by all ages, and a fantastic treat to share with friends and family. Plus, they fill your home with a nostalgic aroma that instantly transports you to brighter, joyful moments.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To bring these scrumptious Gingerbread Cupcakes to life, gather the following ingredients:

For the Cupcakes

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
¾ cup molasses
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
A pinch of salt

For the best results, use high-quality spices and fresh ingredients. You can substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour if you prefer a gluten-free version.

How to Make Gingerbread Cupcakes

Follow these easy steps to create your delectable Gingerbread Cupcakes:

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a cupcake pan with paper liners.

Step 2

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4

Add in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the molasses and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 5

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are fine!

Step 6

Spoon the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.

Step 7

Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8

While the cupcakes cool, prepare the frosting by beating together the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until creamy, then stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

Step 9

Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting.

Tips & Recipe Variations

Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices will enhance the flavor profile.
Smaller Bites: For mini cupcakes, reduce baking time to around 12-15 minutes.
Add a Twist: Consider folding in some chopped nuts or dried fruit for an exciting texture.
Storage: Keep uneaten cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating: If desired, lightly warm cupcakes in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

Best Ways to Serve

These Gingerbread Cupcakes are delightful on their own, but here are some ideas to elevate your experience:

Serve with a warm cup of chai or spiced coffee for a comforting pairing
A sprinkle of cinnamon or edible glitter on top of the frosting adds an attractive touch
For a festive platter, arrange with fresh fruit like oranges or pomegranate seeds for color and freshness

Common Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day in advance and frost them the day you plan to serve.
Can I freeze the leftovers? Absolutely! Freeze the unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
What can I use instead of eggs? For a vegan alternative, consider using flax eggs or applesauce in equal amounts.
How do I prevent the cupcakes from becoming dry? Be cautious not to overmix the batter and ensure you remove them from the oven as soon as they are cooked through.
Can I make this dairy-free? You can substitute non-dairy butter and plant-based cream cheese for the frosting.

Each time I bake these Gingerbread Cupcakes, I’m reminded of the joy that food can bring. They are not just cupcakes; they hold the laughter and stories of gatherings, the warmth of the kitchen, and the love of family. I hope you try this recipe, share it with your loved ones, and create your own heartwarming memories. Happy baking!

“The Gingerbread Cupcakes were a hit at our holiday party! They were moist, flavorful, and perfectly spiced. Everyone asked for seconds!” – Jamie L.