Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes Recipe

The Coziest Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes Recipe for Fall

Crisp autumn breezes bring pumpkin spice latte cupcakes that dance with seasonal warmth and cozy comfort.

Sweet memories of coffee shops swirl through each delectable bite.

Layers of spiced cake merge perfectly with creamy frosting, creating a dessert that feels like a warm hug.

Delicate spices whisper hints of cinnamon and nutmeg across your palate.

Soft crumb and rich espresso notes celebrate fall’s most beloved flavor combination.

Whipping up these cupcakes connects you to cherished moments of relaxation and indulgence.

Bake them and let pure deliciousness spark joy in your kitchen.

FAQs

  • Can I use regular coffee instead of espresso?

Yes, you can substitute espresso with strong brewed coffee or instant coffee dissolved in a small amount of hot water.

  • Is it necessary to use fresh spices?

Fresh spices provide better flavor, but ground spices from your pantry will still work well in this recipe.

  • How do I know if the cupcakes are fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake. If it comes out clean with no wet batter, the cupcakes are done baking.

  • Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking to create a gluten-free version of these cupcakes.

Pumpkin Latte Cupcakes Highlights

  • Craft Seasonal Delight: Capture the essence of autumn with these pumpkin spice latte cupcakes that bring cozy coffee shop vibes right to your kitchen.
  • Master Quick Baking: Whip up these cupcakes with straightforward steps and basic ingredients, perfect for bakers of all skill levels who want a delicious treat.
  • Impress Coffee Lovers: Blend the rich flavors of espresso and pumpkin spice into a decadent dessert that satisfies both sweet tooth and coffee cravings in one bite.
  • Celebrate Versatile Dessert: Enjoy these cupcakes as a delightful afternoon snack, potluck contribution, or special gathering centerpiece that everyone will adore.

Pumpkin Latte Cupcakes Ingredient List

Main Ingredients:
  • Flour: The base of the cupcake that provides structure and texture.
  • Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture and classic autumn flavor to the cupcakes.
  • Butter: Provides richness and helps create a tender crumb.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients and contribute to the cupcake's structure.
Spices and Seasonings:
  • Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, Cloves: Create the signature pumpkin spice flavor profile.
  • Salt: Enhances and balances the overall taste of the cupcakes.
Sweeteners and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Brown Sugar, Granulated Sugar: Provide sweetness and help with caramelization.
  • Espresso: Adds depth and complements the pumpkin spice flavor.
  • Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavor and adds complexity.
Frosting Ingredients:
  • Powdered Sugar: Creates a smooth and sweet frosting base.
  • Butter: Provides a creamy texture and rich flavor to the frosting.
  • Espresso: Adds a coffee flavor to the frosting.
Additional Baking Ingredients:
  • Baking Soda, Baking Powder: Help the cupcakes rise and create a light texture.
Cupcake Liner:
  • Paper Liners: Prevent sticking and make serving easier.

Pumpkin Latte Cupcakes How-To

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Set your oven to a toasty 350F (177C) and grab your cupcake tin.

Slip in some paper liners to create perfect little homes for your cupcakes.

Step 2: Create the Dry Flavor Base

Grab a mixing bowl and whisk together these delightful dry ingredients:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking soda
  • Baking powder
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Ground ginger
  • Nutmeg
  • Cloves
  • Salt

Step 3: Blend the Liquid Magic

In a separate bowl, whip up a dreamy mixture by beating:
  • Brown sugar
  • Granulated sugar
  • Melted butter
Stir in these flavor-packed friends:
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Espresso
  • Eggs
  • Vanilla extract

Blend until the mixture looks smooth and inviting.

Step 4: Marry the Mixtures

Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.

Mix gently until everything just comes together – don’t overmix!

Step 5: Fill the Cupcake Homes

Carefully divide the batter among the cupcake liners.

Make sure they’re evenly filled for perfect baking.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide the cupcake tin into the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes.

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean.

Let the cupcakes cool completely.

Step 7: Whip Up Creamy Frosting

Beat together these frosting ingredients until they become smooth and fluffy:
  • Butter
  • Powdered sugar
  • Espresso
  • Vanilla extract

Step 8: Dress Up the Cupcakes

Pipe or spread the frosting onto the cooled cupcakes.

Get creative and make them look as delicious as they taste!

Pumpkin Latte Cupcakes Helpful Tips

  • Use strong coffee or decaf if you prefer less caffeine, ensuring the rich pumpkin spice flavor remains intact.
  • Add an extra tablespoon of pumpkin puree to create incredibly soft, tender cupcakes that melt in your mouth.
  • Increase ground spices by 1/4 teaspoon for a more pronounced autumn flavor profile that screams cozy comfort.
  • Chill butter before beating to achieve smoother, more stable frosting that pipes beautifully on cupcakes.
  • Replace all-purpose flour with a 1: 1 gluten-free baking blend to make these cupcakes accessible for everyone.

Pumpkin Latte Cupcakes Flavor Options

  • Gluten-Free Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend for celiac or gluten-sensitive bakers.
  • Vegan Pumpkin Chai Cupcakes: Swap eggs with flax eggs, use coconut oil instead of butter, and add chai spices for a plant-based version.
  • Low-Sugar Pumpkin Cupcakes: Substitute granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reducing overall sugar content for diabetic-friendly option.
  • Dairy-Free Pumpkin Spice Treats: Use coconut cream in frosting, replace butter with plant-based margarine, keeping classic pumpkin flavor profile intact.

Pumpkin Latte Cupcakes Serving Suggestions

  • Fall Harvest Party Platter: Arrange cupcakes on a rustic wooden board with mini pumpkins, cinnamon sticks, and autumn leaves for a festive seasonal display.
  • Cozy Coffee Shop Style: Serve on elegant white plates with a dusting of cocoa powder and a small espresso shot on the side for a café-inspired presentation.
  • Friendsgiving Dessert Centerpiece: Create a towering cupcake display with varying heights, garnished with caramel drizzle and candied pecans for a stunning thanksgiving treat.
  • Instagram-Worthy Finish: Top each cupcake with a delicate sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice and a mini chocolate-covered espresso bean for a picture-perfect gourmet touch.

Pumpkin Latte Cupcakes Storage Tips

  • Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent frosting from sticking.
  • Wrap unfrosted cupcakes individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature for 1-2 hours before frosting.
  • Warm refrigerated cupcakes in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. For best texture, let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving to soften frosting.
  • Keep unfrosted cupcakes in a sealed container at room temperature for 2-3 days, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes Recipe

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes Recipe


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4.9 from 17 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Seasonal pumpkin spice latte cupcakes deliver autumn’s most beloved flavor profile in delectable handheld form. Rich coffee-infused cake layers topped with silky cream cheese frosting promise pure comfort you’ll savor with each delightful bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee

Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Flavoring Ingredients:

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and arrange paper liners in a cupcake tin, ensuring even spacing.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, thoroughly combine all dry ingredients, creating a uniform spice-infused flour mixture.
  3. In a separate large bowl, cream together sugars and melted butter until well integrated, creating a smooth base.
  4. Incorporate pumpkin puree, espresso, eggs, and vanilla extract into the sugar mixture, whisking until the texture becomes consistent and glossy.
  5. Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently to avoid overmixing and maintain a light batter consistency.
  6. Carefully distribute the batter among the prepared cupcake liners, filling each approximately two-thirds full for optimal rising.
  7. Place the cupcake tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a inserted toothpick emerges clean and the tops are golden.
  8. Remove cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack, ensuring they reach room temperature.
  9. Prepare the frosting by whipping butter, powdered sugar, espresso, and vanilla extract until achieving a light, fluffy consistency.
  10. Decorate the cooled cupcakes by piping or spreading the espresso-infused frosting, creating an elegant and enticing finish.

Notes

  • Enhance espresso flavor by using high-quality, freshly ground coffee beans for a richer, more intense taste profile.
  • Substitute dairy milk with almond or oat milk to create a vegan-friendly version of these cupcakes, ensuring all ingredients are plant-based.
  • Prevent cupcake sinking by avoiding overmixing the batter and checking oven temperature with a separate thermometer for consistent baking results.
  • Customize toppings by sprinkling crushed graham crackers, adding a light dusting of cinnamon, or garnishing with a small chocolate-covered espresso bean for extra visual appeal and texture.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 352 kcal
  • Sugar: 41 g
  • Sodium: 157 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 48 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 3.8 g
  • Cholesterol: 58 mg
Nathaniel Brooks

Nathaniel Brooks

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Culinary storytelling

Education

Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, IN
Culinary Arts / Hospitality Administration & Events
Focused on hands-on training in classical and modern culinary techniques. ​


Nathaniel’s story starts in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where farm stands, backyard gardens, and old family recipes shaped his love for real food. After graduating from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, he spent years working in farm-to-table kitchens, learning how to turn local, seasonal ingredients into something memorable.
Today, Nathaniel pours that same spirit into every single recipe on Aspiring Culinarian – recipes that feel real, comforting, and connected to the land. When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find him foraging wild herbs, chasing sunsets with his camera, or writing about the flavors that shaped his roots.

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