Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting — Soft, Spiced Holiday Treats

Introduction to Gingerbread Cupcakes

Gingerbread cupcakes are the ultimate holiday delight, combining the rich flavors of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg to create a warm, spiced treat. These soft, moist cupcakes are perfect for Christmas, winter gatherings, and any festive dessert table. With their delightful aroma and taste, they capture the spirit of the season beautifully!

Soft, warmly spiced cupcakes topped with rich cream cheese frosting — the perfect bite of holiday cheer!

🕒 Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Bake Time: 18–20 minutes

• Cooling Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: About 1 hour

• Servings: 12 cupcakes

🧂 Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

• 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1½ teaspoons ground ginger

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar, packed

• ½ cup (120ml) unsulphured molasses

• 1 large egg

• ½ cup (120ml) hot water or buttermilk

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz (226g) cream cheese, softened

• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened

• 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

🔪 Directions

1. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients
   In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Set aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar
   In a large mixing bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
   Add molasses and egg and mix until combined.

4. Add Wet and Dry Mixtures
   Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with hot water or buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
   Mix until smooth and fully combined.

5. Fill and Bake
   Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners, filling each about ¾ full.
   Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. Cool Completely
   Let cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

7. Make the Frosting
   Beat together cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add vanilla and salt.
   Gradually mix in powdered sugar until thick and fluffy.

8. Frost and Decorate
   Pipe or spread frosting onto cooled cupcakes.
   Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon, crushed gingersnaps, or festive sprinkles.

💡 Pro Tips

• For deeper flavor, refrigerate the cupcake batter for 30 minutes before baking.

• Use full-fat cream cheese for the best frosting texture.

• Store frosted cupcakes in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion: A Must-Try Holiday Dessert

These gingerbread cupcakes with cream cheese frosting are not only easy to make but also a delightful addition to your holiday dessert spread. Whether for a festive party or a cozy evening at home, these treats are sure to impress your guests. Enjoy every warm, spiced bite this holiday season!