Benefits and Advantages of Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes

This pumpkin spice latte cupcakes recipe is well-loved for its straightforward preparation, making it a great choice for all skill levels in the kitchen. The simple steps combined with common, easy-to-find ingredients mean you can quickly enjoy baking these cupcakes without extra hassle.

The recipe features a warm blend of spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, which do more than just add delightful autumn flavors they also have potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Unlike many traditional sweet treats, these cupcakes can be adapted to healthier baking choices. You can swap in whole wheat flour, natural sweeteners, or dairy-free milk to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing the rich taste and moist texture. The incorporation of espresso powder or brewed coffee marries the cozy flavors of pumpkin spice with the rich taste of coffee, offering a unique flavor profile that sets these cupcakes apart.

Additionally, the recipe’s flexibility allows for easy customization. Whether you prefer vegan, gluten-free, or low-calorie options, these cupcakes can be tailored accordingly, making them accessible to a wide range of dietary preferences. Overall, pumpkin spice latte cupcakes bring together taste, health-conscious adaptations, and simplicity, making them a favored dessert in the fall season.

For more recipes that add warm, comforting flavors to your baking repertoire, check out our Pumpkin Spice Latte Cookies and Hot Cocoa Cupcakes pages.

Essential Ingredients for Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon espresso powder (instant espresso powder recommended)
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves)
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 can (15 ounces) pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
1 cup vegetable oil
4 large eggs, room temperature
Optional: 1/4 cup brewed coffee (for brushing the cupcakes or adding moisture)

Espresso Buttercream Frosting Ingredients

1¼ cups unsalted butter, room temperature (about 285g)
5 cups confectioners’ sugar (approximately 600g)
2 tablespoons espresso powder (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-3 tablespoons milk (to reach desired consistency)

Alternative Spiced Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

9 tablespoons butter, room temperature
6 ounces cream cheese, softened (full-fat preferred)
½ cup shortening (optional, for increased frosting stability)
1½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
2½ cups powdered sugar

These ingredients combine to deliver the signature flavors of pumpkin spice latte cupcakes warm spices with the rich, coffee-infused essence paired with moist pumpkin cupcake texture and creamy frosting options. For a fuller espresso flavor, using instant espresso powder is preferable to ground coffee.

For those interested in the nutritional benefits of pumpkin and how to integrate coffee flavors in baking, visit Benefits of Using Pumpkin in Recipes and How to Use Espresso Powder in Baking.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes with Creamy Frosting – A Fall Favorite Made Simple

Author: Valentina Lewis
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Yield: 24 cupcakes 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

🎃 These Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes bring the beloved fall flavors to your kitchen, blending pumpkin’s warmth with espresso richness.
☕ Perfect for autumn gatherings, these cupcakes indulge you in a cozy treat that’s both simple and delightful.

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line muffin tins with cupcake liners.
2. Whisk together flour, espresso powder, baking soda, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
3. In a stand mixer, beat pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
6. For extra flavor, add brewed coffee if desired.
7. Fill cupcake liners about ¾ full.
8. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
9. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, brush tops with brewed coffee for moisture and flavor.

For the Espresso Buttercream Frosting:
1. Beat butter on medium speed until creamy.
2. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, one cup at a time.
3. Mix in espresso powder and vanilla, then add milk until desired consistency is reached.
4. Beat on medium-high speed for 5-8 minutes until fluffy.
5. Pipe or spread on cooled cupcakes.

Alternative Spiced Cream Cheese Frosting:
1. Beat butter, cream cheese, and shortening until smooth.
2. Add powdered sugar and pumpkin pie spice, mixing until fluffy.
3. Chill before piping if needed.

Notes

🍂 Use instant espresso powder for best flavor integration.
🥫 Choose pure pumpkin puree—not pumpkin pie filling—for authentic taste.
❄️ Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
Cooling Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20-22 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cupcake
Calories: 400

Keywords: Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes, Fall Cupcakes, Coffee Cupcakes, Easy Dessert