Magical Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Cozy winter nights call for magical gingerbread cupcakes that whisk you into a world of warm, spicy comfort.

Sweet aromas of molasses and ginger drift through kitchens, promising delectable memories.

Soft, tender crumbs melt on your tongue with each delightful bite.

Creamy cinnamon frosting adds a luxurious touch that perfectly complements the rich cake.

Delicate swirls of cream cheese transform these treats into elegant dessert masterpieces.

Baking these cupcakes becomes an intimate celebration of seasonal joy and nostalgic flavors.

Flavor Enhancements For Gingerbread Cupcakes

• Gluten-Free Ginger Cupcakes: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free blend, ensuring same measurements and texture for sensitive diets.
• Vegan Spice Cupcakes: Swap butter with coconut oil, eggs with flax eggs, and cream cheese frosting with dairy-free cream cheese alternative made from cashews.
• Low-Sugar Holiday Treat: Use monk fruit sweetener instead of brown sugar, reducing overall sugar content while maintaining rich gingerbread flavor profile.
• Dairy-Free Winter Cupcakes: Substitute milk with unsweetened almond milk, sour cream with coconut yogurt, and use plant-based butter for a completely dairy-free version.

Suggested Pairings For Gingerbread Cupcakes

• Holiday Party Platter: Arrange cupcakes on a festive wooden board with small cinnamon sticks and sprinkled nutmeg, creating a warm winter display that looks magazine-worthy.
• Dessert Pairing Delight: Serve alongside hot mulled wine or spiced apple cider to complement the gingerbread's rich, warm flavors and enhance the cozy seasonal experience.
• Gifting Magic: Package individual cupcakes in clear cellophane bags tied with rustic twine and a small cinnamon stick, perfect for homemade holiday gifts that spread delicious cheer.
• Brunch Centerpiece: Create a beautiful cupcake tower with varying heights, dusted with powdered sugar and garnished with crystallized ginger pieces for an elegant weekend brunch presentation.

Proper Storage For Gingerbread Cupcakes

• Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover gently with plastic wrap to prevent frosting from sticking.
• Wrap individual cupcakes tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature for 1-2 hours before frosting.
• Warm refrigerated cupcakes in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on low power. Alternatively, let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to soften and regain moisture.
• Keep unfrosted cupcakes in a sealed container at room temperature for 2-3 days. Place a paper towel inside to absorb excess moisture and maintain freshness.

FAQs

• Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground ginger?

Yes, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of fresh grated ginger for every 1 teaspoon of ground ginger in the recipe.

• What's the purpose of adding sour cream to the batter?

Sour cream adds moisture and helps create a tender, soft texture in the cupcakes, making them more rich and delicious.

• How do I know when the cupcakes are perfectly baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake – if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cupcakes are done.

• Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results.

Why Gingerbread Cupcakes With Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Impress

• Capture Holiday Warmth: Dive into a delightful dessert that wraps you in cozy seasonal flavors, bringing festive cheer to your taste buds with every single bite.
• Bake with Ease: Straightforward instructions make this recipe accessible for bakers of all skill levels, allowing even beginners to create impressive, restaurant-quality cupcakes without stress.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or quiet family moments, these spiced cupcakes appeal to both kids and adults with their rich, comforting taste profile.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare cupcakes in advance and store them conveniently, giving you flexibility for busy schedules and ensuring fresh, delicious treats are always within reach.

Ingredients For Gingerbread Cupcakes With Cream Cheese Frosting

• All-Purpose Flour: A core ingredient that provides structure for the cupcake base.
• Ground Ginger, Ground Cinnamon, Ground Nutmeg, Ground Cloves: Warm spices that create the classic gingerbread flavor profile.
• Salt, Baking Soda, Baking Powder: Essential leavening agents that help the cupcakes rise and become light.

• Brown Sugar: Adds deep, rich sweetness and moisture to the cupcakes.
• Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and helps create a tender crumb.
• Molasses: Gives the signature dark color and deep, robust flavor of gingerbread.
• Egg, Egg Yolks: Bind ingredients together and contribute to the cupcake's structure.
• Milk, Sour Cream: Add moisture and help create a soft, tender texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor complexity.

• Cream Cheese, Unsalted Butter: Create a smooth, rich base for the frosting.
• Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps achieve the right frosting consistency.
• Ground Cinnamon, Salt, Vanilla Extract: Add depth and balance to the cream cheese frosting.

How To Make Gingerbread Cupcakes With Cinnamon Frosting

Step 1: Prepare Baking Space

Warm up the oven to 350°F.

Grab a muffin tin and line it with cute cupcake wrappers.

This sets the stage for your delicious adventure.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• All-purpose flour
• Ground ginger
• Cinnamon
• Salt
• Nutmeg
• Baking soda
• Baking powder
• Ground cloves

Whisk these together until they’re perfectly blended.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate bowl, beat brown sugar and softened butter until they become a smooth, creamy mixture that looks like fluffy clouds.

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in the molasses, then crack in the whole egg and extra yolks.

Whisk everything until it’s beautifully combined and glossy.

Step 5: Introduce Moisture

Stir in milk and sour cream, creating a silky smooth base.

Add a splash of vanilla for extra warmth and depth of flavor.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.

Be careful not to overmix – you want a tender, light cupcake.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full.

Slide the tin into the oven and bake for 20-22 minutes.

They’re done when a toothpick comes out clean.

Let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 8: Whip Up Creamy Frosting

Beat butter and cream cheese in a mixing bowl until they become light and fluffy.

Step 9: Create Frosting Magic

• Vanilla
• Cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

Gradually mix in powdered sugar until the frosting reaches a dreamy, smooth consistency.

Step 10: Frost with Flair

Once cupcakes are totally cool, pipe or spread the cinnamon cream cheese frosting with love.

Step 11: Storage Secrets

Keep unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

They can also hang out in the freezer for 3 months.

Step 12: Spice It Up

Want extra warmth?

Sprinkle a bit more cinnamon or nutmeg into the frosting.

Step 13: Final Festive Touch

Dust the tops with a light sprinkle of cinnamon just before serving for that extra wow factor.

Tips For Gingerbread Cupcakes With Cream Cheese Frosting

• Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the texture moist and tender.
• Toast the ground spices briefly in a dry pan before mixing to intensify their warmth and aroma.
• Ensure butter, eggs, and dairy are at room temperature for smoother, more even mixing.
• Chill cream cheese and butter for easier beating and a more stable frosting texture.
• Sprinkle crushed gingersnap cookies or candied ginger on top for extra crunch and festive flair.

Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

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• Total Time: 47 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Festive winter spices dance through these gingerbread cupcakes, promising a delightful holiday treat. Warm cinnamon cream cheese frosting crowns each tender cupcake, inviting you to savor the season’s most comforting dessert.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients (Cake):

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 2 large egg yolks
• 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/3 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons sour cream

Spices and Leavening Agents:

• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Frosting Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 16 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 5 cups powdered sugar (sifted)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven to 350°F and arrange cupcake liners in a muffin tin.
2. Sift together all dry ingredients in a medium bowl: flour, ginger, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, baking soda, baking powder, and cloves. Set mixture aside.
3. Cream brown sugar and butter in a separate bowl until smooth and well-integrated.
4. Incorporate molasses, then egg and additional yolks, whisking until fully combined and uniform.
5. Gently mix in milk, sour cream, and vanilla extract, creating a smooth liquid base.
6. Delicately fold dry ingredients into wet mixture, stirring until just incorporated without overmixing.
7. Distribute batter evenly into cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 20-22 minutes until a toothpick emerges clean.
8. Allow cupcakes to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.
9. Whip butter and cream cheese in a mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
10. Blend vanilla, cinnamon, and salt into the cream cheese mixture, then gradually introduce powdered sugar until frosting reaches desired consistency.
11. Carefully pipe or spread frosting onto fully cooled cupcakes.
12. For enhanced flavor, sprinkle additional cinnamon or nutmeg on top before serving.
13. Store unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months.

Notes

• Boost Moisture by using room temperature ingredients, ensuring a tender and soft cupcake texture that melts in your mouth.
• Prevent Overmixing when combining dry and wet ingredients, as this can lead to tough, dense cupcakes with a rubbery consistency.
• Customize Dietary Needs by substituting gluten-free flour blend for regular flour and using dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives for those with dietary restrictions.
• Elevate Flavor Complexity by toasting spices briefly before adding to the batter, which intensifies the warm, rich aromatics of ginger and cinnamon.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 22 minutes
• Category: Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 434
• Sugar: 39 g
• Sodium: 196 mg
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 16 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0.4 g
• Carbohydrates: 44 g
• Fiber: 1.2 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 92 mg