Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes

Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes are a delightful treat perfect for autumn gatherings, Halloween parties, or cozy family dinners. These cupcakes combine rich chocolate with the warm spices of pumpkin, creating a unique flavor profile that will impress your guests. Topped with a creamy pumpkin spice cream cheese frosting, these cupcakes are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them an ideal dessert for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: These chocolate pumpkin cupcakes are incredibly moist thanks to the addition of pumpkin puree, giving them a rich texture and flavor.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Perfect for Fall: The blend of chocolate and pumpkin spice makes these cupcakes a seasonal favorite that captures the essence of autumn.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for birthdays, Halloween, or Thanksgiving, these cupcakes can be enjoyed at any festive gathering.
• Delicious Frosting: The pumpkin spice cream cheese frosting adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the cupcakes beautifully.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious chocolate pumpkin cupcakes, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Muffin tin
• Cupcake liners
• Sifter

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool makes mixing ingredients easy and ensures a smooth batter, which is key for fluffy cupcakes.
• Sifter: Sifting flour and cocoa powder helps to aerate the dry ingredients, resulting in lighter baked goods.

Ingredients

Chocolate pumpkin cupcakes are moist, super chocolatey and full of pumpkin spice flavor. They’re topped with pumpkin spice cream cheese frosting for the ultimate fall treat!

For the Cupcakes

• 1/4 cup (56 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (150 g) granulated white sugar
• 1 egg, at room temperature
• 1 egg yolk, at room temperature
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) whole milk, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup (62 g) sour cream, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup (122 g) canned pumpkin puree (Libby’s canned pumpkin)
• 1 cup (125 g) all purpose flour, sifted
• 1/4 cup + 2 tbsp (30 g) black cocoa powder, sifted
• 2 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Frosting

• 1/2 cup (122 g) canned pumpkin puree dried to 1/4 cup (45 g) (see recipe for explanation) (Libby’s canned pumpkin)
• 1 cup (224 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, cold
• 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 3 cups (390 g) powdered sugar, sifted

How to Make Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract; mix well until combined.
3. Gradually mix in whole milk and sour cream until smooth.

Step 3: Incorporate Pumpkin Puree

Fold in the canned pumpkin puree gently into the wet mixture until fully blended.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together the sifted flour, black cocoa powder, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
2. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Step 5: Bake the Cupcakes

Spoon the batter into prepared cupcake liners about two-thirds full. Bake in preheated oven for 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow cooling completely before frosting.

Step 6: Make Frosting

In a mixing bowl:
1. Beat together softened butter and cold cream cheese until creamy.
2. Mix in dried pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice.
3. Gradually add powdered sugar until desired consistency is reached.

Step 7: Frost and Serve

Once cooled, generously frost each cupcake with the cream cheese frosting. Enjoy your delicious chocolate pumpkin cupcakes!

How to Serve Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes

These delicious chocolate pumpkin cupcakes make a perfect treat for any fall gathering or Halloween party. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your cupcake experience.

With Warm Spices

• Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon sugar on top for added warmth and sweetness.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the frosting for an extra indulgent touch.

As a Dessert Platter

• Mini Cupcake Assortment: Pair your chocolate pumpkin cupcakes with mini versions of other flavors for a festive dessert platter.
• Seasonal Fruits: Serve alongside sliced apples or pears, adding a fresh contrast to the rich flavors.

Accompanied by Beverages

• Spiced Chai Latte: The warmth of chai complements the pumpkin spice beautifully.
• Hot Chocolate: For true chocolate lovers, pairing these cupcakes with rich hot chocolate creates a decadent experience.

Ideal for Celebrations

• Birthday Parties: These cupcakes are great for fall birthday parties, offering a unique twist on traditional cake.
• Halloween Treats: Decorate with spooky designs or themed toppers to make them festive for Halloween.

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How to Perfect Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes

Perfecting your chocolate pumpkin cupcakes is simple with a few key tips to follow.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring that all ingredients are at room temperature helps achieve a well-mixed batter and fluffy texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently fold the ingredients together. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes.
• Check for Doneness Early: Start checking your cupcakes at around 15 minutes. They should spring back when lightly touched.
• Let Them Cool Completely: Allow the cupcakes to cool before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a beautiful finish.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes

Pairing side dishes with your chocolate pumpkin cupcakes can enhance your dessert table. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a delightful cold contrast to warm cupcakes.
2. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cupcakes for an added layer of flavor.
3. Pumpkin Soup: A small cup of savory pumpkin soup makes an excellent starter before diving into dessert.
4. Cheese Platter: Include soft cheeses like brie or cheddar to balance the sweetness of the cupcakes.
5. Apple Crisp: The warm spices in apple crisp pair perfectly with chocolate pumpkin flavors.
6. Chai-Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts tossed in chai spices offer a crunchy, savory snack beside your sweet treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking chocolate pumpkin cupcakes can be fun, but avoiding common pitfalls is essential for success.

• Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature eggs, milk, and butter. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and dense cupcakes.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mix your batter just until combined. Overmixing can create tough cupcakes, ruining their fluffy texture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups. Incorrect measurements can lead to inconsistent results in your chocolate pumpkin cupcakes.
• Ignoring the Baking Time: Keep an eye on baking times. Oven temperatures vary, so check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time.
• Forgetting to Preheat the Oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing your cupcakes inside. This helps achieve the perfect rise and texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes

• Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Store for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 10-second intervals until warm; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Use a steamer basket over boiling water for gentle warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about chocolate pumpkin cupcakes.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in your batter.

How do I make dairy-free chocolate pumpkin cupcakes?

Substitute sour cream with dairy-free yogurt and use almond or coconut milk instead of whole milk.

What can I use instead of pumpkin pie spice?

A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger can serve as an excellent alternative if you don’t have pumpkin pie spice on hand.

How long do chocolate pumpkin cupcakes last?

These cupcakes will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 5 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Chocolate pumpkin cupcakes are not only delicious but also versatile. Their rich flavor makes them perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. Try this delightful treat today!