Soft Gingerbread Cupcakes with Spiced Cream Cheese Frosting

Gingerbread is a quintessential holiday flavor, and these soft gingerbread cupcakes with spiced cream cheese frosting are a perfect treat for any festive occasion. With the warm spices of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, combined with the rich sweetness of molasses, these cupcakes are sure to become a family favorite. Topped with a velvety spiced cream cheese frosting, they offer the perfect balance of flavor and texture that will melt in your mouth.

Why You’ll Love These Soft Gingerbread Cupcakes

These soft gingerbread cupcakes are ideal for both experienced bakers and beginners. They come together quickly, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or even a fun baking session with kids. The cupcakes are wonderfully soft and moist, thanks to the buttermilk and molasses, while the spiced cream cheese frosting adds a rich and tangy finish. The gingerbread men decoration on top brings a festive touch, making them as adorable as they are delicious.

Ingredients for Soft Gingerbread Cupcakes

For the cupcakes:

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the cupcakes, ensuring they hold together.
• Ground ginger: Adds the signature spicy kick of gingerbread.
• Ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor.
• Ground cloves: Contributes a subtle aromatic spice.
• Ground nutmeg: Adds a comforting, sweet warmth to the spice mix.
• Salt: Balances out the sweetness of the cupcakes.
• Butter: Ensures a moist texture while providing richness.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cupcakes without overpowering the spices.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the cupcake’s fluffiness.
• Buttermilk: Gives the cupcakes their soft, tender texture.
• Molasses: The key ingredient for that signature gingerbread flavor.
• Baking soda: Helps the cupcakes rise and become light and airy.

For the spiced cream cheese frosting:

• Cream cheese: Provides a rich, tangy base for the frosting.
• Butter: Adds smoothness and richness to the frosting.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the frosting.
• Ground cinnamon: Compliments the spices in the cupcakes and adds warmth to the frosting.
• Ground nutmeg: A subtle, aromatic spice that pairs well with cinnamon.
• Confectioner’s sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps it achieve the right consistency.

For decoration:

• Gingerbread cookies: Small gingerbread men cookies, either homemade or store-bought, to top the cupcakes for a fun, festive look.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

• Buttermilk substitute: Combine 2/3 cup of whole milk with 1/3 cup of plain Greek yogurt to replicate the tang and acidity of buttermilk.
• Molasses replacement: If you don’t have molasses, dark corn syrup or honey can be used, though they will slightly alter the flavor profile.
• Gluten-free option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to make these cupcakes gluten-free.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Soft Gingerbread Cupcakes

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. Whisk the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the wet ingredients: Mix in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the buttermilk and molasses. Don’t worry if the mixture appears slightly separated at first.
5. Combine the dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in denser cupcakes.
6. Add the baking soda: Dissolve the baking soda in 1/4 cup of boiling water and stir it into the batter. This will help the cupcakes rise and stay fluffy.
7. Fill the cupcake liners: Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
9. Cool the cupcakes completely on a wire rack before frosting.

For the spiced cream cheese frosting:

1. Prepare the frosting: Using a hand mixer, beat together the softened cream cheese, butter, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the powdered sugar: Gradually add the confectioner’s sugar, one cup at a time, until the frosting reaches a thick, spreadable consistency. If it’s too thick, add a teaspoon of milk to loosen it up.
3. Frost the cupcakes: Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes.

Tips & Tricks for Soft Gingerbread Cupcakes

• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in tough cupcakes. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
• Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature: This helps the butter and eggs incorporate more easily, leading to a smoother batter and fluffier cupcakes.
• Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake. If it comes out clean, your cupcakes are ready.
• Storage: These cupcakes can be stored in the refrigerator for 5-7 days due to the cream cheese frosting. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
• Freezing: Freeze the cupcakes (without frosting) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting and serving.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

• Pair with a warm drink: Serve these cupcakes with a hot cup of tea, coffee, or even a holiday spiced latte for the ultimate cozy treat.
• Try different frosting flavors: If you’re not a fan of cream cheese frosting, you can swap it out for a simple buttercream frosting or even a chocolate ganache for a different twist.
• Gluten-free version: Use a gluten-free flour blend and make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free to cater to those with dietary restrictions.

Why These Cupcakes Are Perfect for the Holidays

Soft gingerbread cupcakes are a classic holiday treat, and their rich, spiced flavor makes them perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any winter celebration. The addition of the spiced cream cheese frosting elevates these cupcakes, making them feel extra special. The gingerbread men topping adds a fun and festive touch, making them ideal for holiday gatherings with family and friends. These cupcakes not only look beautiful but taste like the holidays in every bite.

With these soft gingerbread cupcakes, you can create a memorable dessert for any holiday gathering or simply enjoy them as a sweet treat any time of the year. The combination of warm spices, fluffy texture, and creamy frosting will delight your taste buds and bring joy to your table!

Conclusion

Soft gingerbread cupcakes with spiced cream cheese frosting are the perfect way to celebrate the holidays or any special occasion. With their rich, aromatic spices and fluffy texture, these cupcakes offer a warm and comforting dessert that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or simply craving a festive treat, these cupcakes will bring both flavor and fun to your kitchen. Don’t forget to top them off with cute gingerbread men for an extra dose of holiday cheer!

With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your holiday baking rotation. The combination of soft, spiced cupcakes and the rich, creamy frosting creates an irresistible treat that is both festive and delicious. Enjoy these soft gingerbread cupcakes at your next gathering and watch them disappear in no time!

FAQs About Soft Gingerbread Cupcakes

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