Gingerbread Cupcakes Recipe

Introduction

These Gingerbread Cupcakes are a festive treat that combines the warm spices of gingerbread with a rich cream cheese frosting. Perfect for the holiday season, these cupcakes are moist, flavorful, and topped with a creamy frosting that adds a delightful touch of sweetness.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup milk (or buttermilk)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Ground cinnamon (optional, for sprinkling)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes) using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
4. Add Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk (or buttermilk), beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Fill the Cupcake Liners: Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
6. Bake the Cupcakes: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
7. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until smooth and fluffy. Mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
8. Frost the Cupcakes: Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting. Sprinkle a little ground cinnamon on top for extra flavor and decoration, if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 12 cupcakes. Total preparation time is approximately 40-45 minutes, including baking and cooling time.

Variations

• Spiced Cream Cheese Frosting: Add a pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves to the frosting for a spiced twist.
• Gingerbread Cake: Use this recipe to make a gingerbread cake by baking it in a round or square pan.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: If you prefer to enjoy them warm, briefly microwave them for about 10-15 seconds.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of sugar? Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar for brown sugar, but the flavor will be slightly different.
2. What can I use instead of molasses? You can use honey or dark corn syrup as a substitute, though the flavor will vary slightly.
3. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time? Yes, you can bake and frost these cupcakes a day or two in advance. Store them in the refrigerator.
4. Can I freeze the cupcakes? Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before frosting.
5. How can I make the frosting less sweet? Reduce the amount of powdered sugar and add a little more cream cheese.
6. Can I use a different frosting? Absolutely. Vanilla buttercream or a spiced whipped cream would be delicious alternatives.
7. What type of apples work best if I want to add fruit? Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, and chop them finely.
8. Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour? Almond flour will give a different texture and flavor, and may require adjustments to the recipe.
9. How can I make these cupcakes gluten-free? Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
10. Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter? Yes, adding nuts or chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Gingerbread Cupcakes are a delightful treat that brings the essence of holiday spices to a light and fluffy cupcake. Topped with creamy cream cheese frosting, they make for a perfect dessert during the festive season or anytime you’re craving a comforting, spiced treat. Enjoy these cupcakes as a festive treat or a special dessert to share with friends and family.

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