Name: Pumpkin Chip Cupcakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 24 min
Total time: 39 min
Ingredients: 1 cup canned pumpkin; 1/3 cup oil; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup milk (or soymilk); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/8 teaspoon ginger; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips; 2 large egg whites; 1/2 cup packed light-brown sugar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature, cut into tablespoons)

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There’s something so heartwarming about baking, especially when the air turns crisp and the leaves start to fall. One of my favorite treats to whip up during this season is Pumpkin Chip Cupcakes. These delightful morsels are not just any cupcakes; they are a comforting blend of moist pumpkin, sweet chocolate chips, and a decadent brown sugar buttercream that will make your taste buds sing. I remember the first time I made them; the aroma of spices filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to autumn family gatherings. As I topped each cupcake with the fluffy frosting, I couldn’t wait to share them with friends and family, creating moments filled with warmth and laughter. Whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive Thanksgiving celebration, these cupcakes add a special touch to any occasion.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
39 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
24 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
220 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
10 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Whisk, Oven, Saucepan, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Why This Pumpkin Chip Cupcakes Hits Different

A Flavorful Fusion

The combination of pumpkin and chocolate chips in these Pumpkin Chip Cupcakes is simply divine. The natural sweetness of the pumpkin enhances the rich, creamy texture of the cupcake, while the chocolate chips provide a delightful burst of flavor that complements the spices perfectly.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These cupcakes are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be served at birthday parties, potluck dinners, or as a sweet treat during the fall season. Plus, they make fantastic additions to your Thanksgiving dessert table!

Easy to Make

What I love most about these cupcakes is how easy they are to prepare. With just a few simple steps, anyone can create a batch of these delightful treats. It’s a wonderful way to introduce your kids to the joys of baking!

Moist & Fluffy

Unlike many cupcake recipes that can turn out dry, these Pumpkin Chip Cupcakes stay incredibly moist thanks to the addition of oil and pumpkin puree. You’ll love how fluffy and light they are!

Decadent Frosting

Don’t forget about the brown sugar buttercream! This frosting adds an extra layer of richness that makes each bite unforgettable. It’s smooth, creamy, and the perfect finishing touch!

A Seasonal Favorite

As soon as autumn hits, these cupcakes become my go-to recipe. They encapsulate all the warm flavors of the season and are a hit among family and friends. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be making them year after year!

Ingredients Overview for Pumpkin Chip Cupcakes

When it comes to the ingredients for these Pumpkin Chip Cupcakes, each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect flavor and texture. The star ingredient, canned pumpkin, not only provides moisture but also infuses the cupcakes with a rich, earthy flavor. The granulated sugar and light brown sugar bring sweetness, while the all-purpose flour serves as the base. With the addition of warm spices like ground cinnamon, ground cloves, nutmeg, and ginger, these cupcakes truly embrace the essence of fall.

Canned pumpkin: 1 cup of canned pumpkin adds moisture and a rich flavor.
Oil: 1/3 cup of oil keeps the cupcakes tender and moist.
Granulated sugar: 1 cup of granulated sugar provides the perfect sweetness.
Milk or soymilk: 1/4 cup of milk or soymilk adds creaminess to the batter.
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract adds a depth of flavor.
All-purpose flour: 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour gives structure to the cupcakes.
Baking powder: 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder helps the cupcakes rise.
Baking soda: 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda balances the acidity of the pumpkin.
Ground spices: 3/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/8 teaspoon each of ground cloves, nutmeg, and ginger add warmth and flavor.
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon of salt enhances all the flavors.
Mini chocolate chips: 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips brings sweetness and texture.
Egg whites: 2 large egg whites provide stability and lift.
Light-brown sugar: 1/2 cup of packed light-brown sugar contributes to the rich flavor of the frosting.
Unsalted butter: 3/4 cup of unsalted butter, at room temperature, makes the frosting creamy and smooth.

How to Assemble Pumpkin Chip Cupcakes

Assembling these Pumpkin Chip Cupcakes is a delightful process! Follow these steps to create your own batch of these delicious treats. Begin by preheating your oven, and soon your kitchen will be filled with the inviting aroma of pumpkin and spices. Let’s dive in!

Preheat your oven to 350ºF. This temperature is ideal for baking your cupcakes, ensuring that they rise beautifully while keeping them moist.
Line a muffin pan with cupcake liners. Choosing festive liners adds a personal touch to your Pumpkin Chip Cupcakes. Plus, they make cleanup a breeze!
In a medium bowl, stir together canned pumpkin, oil, granulated sugar, milk or soymilk, and vanilla extract. Combine until smooth and creamy, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Next, sift in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and the warming spices. Gently whisk the mixture by hand until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to gummy cupcakes.
Once the batter is combined, fold in the mini chocolate chips. The chocolate will melt slightly as the cupcakes bake, creating pockets of gooey goodness throughout.
Using a measuring cup, fill each cupcake liner with 1/4 cup of batter, ensuring each cup is about 2/3 full. This ensures they have enough room to rise without overflowing.
Bake in the preheated oven for 22 to 24 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. It’s such a rewarding moment!
Once baked, transfer the cupcakes to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential before frosting; otherwise, the frosting may melt.
For the frosting, set a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water. Whisk together egg whites, light-brown sugar, and a pinch of salt in the bowl. Cook while whisking constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm.
Transfer the warm mixture to an electric mixer bowl. Beat on medium speed until fluffy and cooled down, which takes about 15 minutes. This creates a beautiful base for your frosting.
Once cooled, raise the mixer speed to high and beat until stiff peaks form. This means the mixture should hold its shape and not flop over.
Reduce the speed to medium-low and gradually add in the unsalted butter, 2 to 3 tablespoons at a time, mixing until fully incorporated. The frosting will become creamy and luscious.
Finally, spread or pipe the frosting onto your cooled cupcakes. Get creative with your decorating style—the more personal, the better!

Things Worth Knowing

Don’t Overmix: Mixing too aggressively can lead to dense cupcakes. Stir just until combined.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature to achieve the best texture.
Use Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality chocolate chips. They melt beautifully and enhance the flavor.
Cool Completely: Allow the cupcakes to cool entirely before frosting to maintain the frosting’s structure.

Make It Your Own

These Pumpkin Chip Cupcakes are already delicious, but here are some tips to make the recipe even more special. Personalizing your baking can be a fun way to experiment and create something uniquely yours!

Storage: Keep leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They tend to get better as they sit!
Freezing: You can freeze these cupcakes for up to three months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly to prevent freezer burn.
Frosting Variations: Try different frosting flavors! A cream cheese frosting would pair beautifully with the pumpkin flavor.
Mix-In Adventures: Experiment with nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture.
Serving Ideas: These cupcakes are perfect for fall-themed parties or gatherings. Pair them with a warm mug of spiced cider for a cozy experience.

Accompaniments for Pumpkin Chip Cupcakes

Serving your Pumpkin Chip Cupcakes can be just as delightful as baking them! Here are some fantastic ideas to enhance your presentation and experience:

Festive Plates: Use seasonal-themed plates or cupcake stands to elevate their visual appeal.
Warm Beverages: Pair these cupcakes with warm drinks such as chai tea or hot chocolate to create a cozy atmosphere.
Seasonal Decor: Surround your cupcakes with autumn elements like miniature pumpkins or colorful leaves for a charming display.
Picnic Treats: These cupcakes make a wonderful addition to any picnic during the fall. They’re easy to transport!
Casual Gatherings: Perfect for casual gatherings, they can be served alongside other finger foods like cheese platters or fruit skewers.
Thanksgiving Dessert Table: These cupcakes are an excellent alternative to traditional pies during Thanksgiving celebrations.

FAQ

Absolutely! While canned pumpkin is convenient, you can use fresh pumpkin puree for these Pumpkin Chip Cupcakes. Just roast and puree your pumpkin, ensuring it’s smooth before adding it to the batter. This can add a fresher taste and a bit of texture to your cupcakes!

To keep your Pumpkin Chip Cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay good for up to three months!

Yes, you can prepare the frosting ahead of time! Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When you’re ready to use it, let it sit at room temperature until it softens, then give it a quick whip to bring it back to a spreadable consistency. This makes your cupcake assembly quicker and easier!

If you’re looking for an egg-free alternative for the frosting, consider using aquafaba, the liquid from canned chickpeas. You can use about 3 tablespoons of aquafaba to replace each egg white. Whip it until it forms stiff peaks, just like you would with egg whites!

Conclusion

These Pumpkin Chip Cupcakes are truly special, capturing the essence of fall with every bite. I hope you give them a try and enjoy the warmth they bring to your kitchen. Baking is about sharing, and these cupcakes are perfect for creating memorable moments with loved ones.