Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes

Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes are an irresistible treat that perfectly blend rich chocolate flavor with the warm spices of pumpkin. Ideal for fall gatherings, Halloween parties, or simply as a delightful dessert, these cupcakes capture the essence of the season. Topped with creamy pumpkin spice frosting, they offer a moist texture and a taste that will leave everyone wanting more!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: These cupcakes are incredibly moist and bursting with chocolate and pumpkin spice flavors.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch of these delicious treats in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive celebration or a cozy family dinner, these cupcakes fit right in.
• Versatile Frosting Options: While pumpkin spice cream cheese frosting is the star, you can easily customize it to suit your taste.
• Kid-Friendly Treat: Kids love the combination of chocolate and pumpkin, making these cupcakes a hit at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on your chocolate pumpkin cupcakes, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the process easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Helps achieve a light and fluffy batter quickly without much effort.
• Muffin tin: Essential for baking perfect cupcake shapes that rise beautifully.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure accuracy in ingredient amounts for consistent results.

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 Pumpkin Spice Cream Cheese 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: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your muffin tin with cupcake liners to make removal easy after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg, egg yolk, vanilla, whole milk, sour cream, and canned pumpkin puree. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, black cocoa powder, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing gently until just combined.

Step 4: Fill Muffin Tin

Spoon the batter into each cupcake liner until they are about two-thirds full. This allows enough space for them to rise without overflowing.

Step 5: Bake

Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for about 18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Make Frosting

Once baked, remove cupcakes from the oven and let them cool completely before frosting. To make the frosting, beat together softened butter and cold cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing in pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice until you reach desired consistency.

Step 7: Frost Your Cupcakes

Using a piping bag or a spatula, frost each cupcake generously with your delicious pumpkin spice cream cheese frosting.

Enjoy your Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes as they delight everyone around you!

How to Serve Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes

These delectable chocolate pumpkin cupcakes are perfect for any fall gathering or festive occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just enjoying a cozy night in, here are some serving suggestions that will make your cupcakes even more special.

Pair with Hot Beverages

• Coffee – The rich flavor of coffee complements the chocolate and pumpkin spices beautifully.
• Hot Chocolate – For chocolate lovers, this is an indulgent pairing that takes the treat to the next level.
• Spiced Tea – A warm spiced tea can enhance the flavors of your cupcakes and provide a comforting experience.

Add Whipped Cream

• Fresh Whipped Cream – A dollop of unsweetened whipped cream adds a light texture and balances the sweetness.
• Flavored Whipped Cream – Try adding vanilla or cinnamon to your whipped cream for an extra touch of flavor.

Decorate with Nuts

• Chopped Pecans – Sprinkle chopped pecans on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs well with pumpkin.
• Chocolate Chips – Mini chocolate chips can be scattered on top or mixed into the batter for an extra chocolatey bite.

Serve with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla ice cream makes for a delightful contrast to the rich cupcakes.
• Pumpkin Ice Cream – For an autumn twist, serve your cupcakes with pumpkin-flavored ice cream.

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How to Perfect Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes

To achieve the best results with your chocolate pumpkin cupcakes, follow these helpful tips that ensure moistness and flavor.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter – Mixing just until combined prevents dense cupcakes; overmixing can lead to tough textures.
• Check Doneness Early – Start checking your cupcakes at around 15 minutes. They should spring back when lightly touched.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting – Ensuring the cupcakes are cool prevents the frosting from melting off, keeping it beautifully intact.

Best Side Dishes for Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes

Pairing side dishes with your chocolate pumpkin cupcakes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delicious suggestions to complement their flavors.

1. Cinnamon Sugar Donuts – These fluffy donuts dusted in cinnamon sugar offer a sweet companion to your cupcakes.
2. Caramel Apples – The crunchy apples and creamy caramel provide a nice contrast and tie in the fall theme.
3. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup – This warm soup gives a savory balance to the sweetness of the cupcakes.
4. Cheese Platter – A selection of soft cheeses can provide a creamy contrast that enhances the cupcake flavors.
5. Pumpkin Spice Latte – Enjoy these cupcakes alongside this seasonal favorite for a perfect fall treat pairing.
6. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad balances out the richness of the cupcakes with its bright flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making chocolate pumpkin cupcakes, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Starting with cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing. Always ensure your eggs, milk, and sour cream are at room temperature.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too long can create tough cupcakes. Stir until just combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Using too much flour will dry out your cupcakes. Spoon and level the flour instead of scooping directly from the container.
• Skipping the Sifting Step: Failing to sift cocoa powder and flour can lead to lumps. Always sift dry ingredients for a smoother batter.
• Ignoring Baking Times: Overbaking will result in dry cupcakes. Keep an eye on them and do a toothpick test a few minutes before the suggested time.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store chocolate pumpkin cupcakes in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes

• Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place cupcakes on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cupcake at a time for about 10-15 seconds for quick reheating.
• Stovetop: Use a covered pan over low heat, adding a few drops of water for moisture, and heat for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about chocolate pumpkin cupcakes.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree. Just ensure it is well-drained and has a similar consistency to canned pumpkin.

What is the best way to store leftover chocolate pumpkin cupcakes?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can I make these chocolate pumpkin cupcakes gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

How do I make chocolate pumpkin cupcakes more moist?

Adding additional sour cream or using oil instead of butter can enhance the moisture level of your cupcakes.

What flavors pair well with chocolate pumpkin cupcakes?

Flavors like caramel, pecans, or even peppermint complement chocolate pumpkin beautifully!

Final Thoughts

Chocolate pumpkin cupcakes are a delightful treat perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home. Their rich flavor and moist texture make them irresistible. Feel free to customize by adding nuts or using different frostings. Enjoy baking these scrumptious delights!