Cozy Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting 🧁

Introduction

There’s something magical about baking during the holiday season. The scents of warm spices and sweet treats wafting through the house create a cozy atmosphere that invites family and friends to gather. Recently, I made a batch of these Cozy Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting, and they were an absolute hit! The rich flavors of ginger and cinnamon complemented by the creamy frosting were irresistible. My family couldn’t get enough, and they quickly became a new holiday favorite. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that perfectly captures the essence of the season!

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• ⅔ cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 2 large egg yolks
• ⅓ cup whole milk
• 2 Tbsp sour cream

For the Frosting

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ – ½ tsp kosher salt
• 5 cups powdered sugar (sifted to avoid lumps)

Instructions

For the Cupcakes

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine flour, ginger, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and cloves. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter & Sugar: In another bowl, beat together brown sugar and softened butter until smooth.
4. Mix in Molasses & Eggs: Add molasses, then the egg and yolks, whisking until combined.
5. Add Milk & Sour Cream: Stir in milk and sour cream until smooth, followed by the vanilla.
6. Combine Everything: Gently fold in the dry ingredients until just mixed (no need to overmix).
7. Bake: Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool on a wire rack.

For the Frosting

1. Cream Butter & Cream Cheese: In a mixing bowl, beat butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
2. Add Flavors & Sugar: Add vanilla, cinnamon, and salt, then gradually add powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
3. Frost: Once cupcakes are completely cool, pipe or spread frosting on each.

Nutrition Facts

• Yield: 12 cupcakes
• Calories per serving: 350

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 22 minutes
• Total Time: 52 minutes

How to Serve

• Display on a festive cake stand or platter.
• Pair with a cup of warm spiced cider or hot chocolate.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or edible glitter for a festive touch.
• Offer alongside other holiday treats for a dessert table.
• Enjoy while cozying up with loved ones.

Additional Tips

1. Make Ahead: The cupcakes (unfrosted) can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
2. Custom Frosting: Add a pinch of extra cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg for even more spice in the frosting.
3. Moisture Check: Ensure your molasses is fresh; older molasses can lead to drier cupcakes.
4. Even Baking: Rotate the muffin tin halfway through baking for even cooking.
5. Piping Technique: Use a piping bag fitted with a star tip for an elegant frosting finish.

Recipe Variations

• Spiced Rum: Incorporate a tablespoon of spiced rum into the batter for an adult twist.
• Nutty Addition: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
• Fruity Touch: Mix in finely chopped candied ginger for an extra zing.
• Choco-Ginger: Add chocolate chips for a delightful contrast to the spice.

Serving Suggestions

• Gift these cupcakes to friends or neighbors as a sweet holiday gesture.
• Bring to potlucks or holiday parties for a crowd-pleasing treat.
• Pair with a side of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
• Create a cupcake decorating station at parties for guests to frost their own.
• Use as a festive centerpiece for dessert tables during celebrations.

Freezing and Storage

• Cupcakes: Store unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting.
• Frosting: You can also freeze the frosting separately for up to a month. Just thaw and re-whip before using.

FAQ

1. Can I use dark molasses instead of light?

• Yes, dark molasses will give a richer flavor, but it may alter the color slightly.

1. How can I make these cupcakes dairy-free?

• Substitute butter with a dairy-free margarine and use a non-dairy milk option.

1. What can I use instead of eggs?

• You can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water).

1. Can I make mini cupcakes with this recipe?

• Yes! Bake for about 12-15 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

1. What’s the best way to frost these cupcakes?

• Use a piping bag for a clean and decorative finish.

1. Can I use cake flour instead of all-purpose flour?

• Yes, but it may alter the texture slightly, making it more tender.

1. How long can I keep the frosted cupcakes?

• They can be kept at room temperature for 1-2 days, or in the fridge for up to a week.

1. Can I add more spices?

• Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your preference.

1. What type of cinnamon is best for this recipe?

• Saigon or Ceylon cinnamon is recommended for a more aromatic flavor.

1. How do I know when the cupcakes are done baking?
   • They are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Conclusion

These Cozy Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting are more than just a treat; they embody the warmth and joy of the holiday season. With their aromatic spices and delightful frosting, they are sure to become a staple in your holiday baking repertoire. Easy to make and even easier to love, they invite everyone to indulge in a little festive cheer. So, gather your loved ones, preheat that oven, and get ready to spread some holiday magic with these delicious cupcakes! Enjoy every bite and the warmth they bring to your home. 🧁✨

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