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Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes

Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes for a Cozy Fall Treat

Delight in these Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes, a magical blend of rich chocolate and pumpkin spice for a cozy fall treat.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 19 minutes
Cooling Time 5 minutes
Total Time 44 minutes
Servings: 12 cupcakes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

For the Batter
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Adds moisture and richness; substitute with margarine if necessary.
  • 1 cup Granulated White Sugar Provides sweetness and structure; brown sugar can deepen the flavor.
  • 1 large Egg Acts as a binder and adds moisture; use a flax egg for a vegan option.
  • 1 large Egg Yolk Enriches the batter for tenderness.
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Enhances flavor; can be omitted for a simpler taste.
  • 1/2 cup Whole Milk Adds moisture; almond milk works for a dairy-free alternative.
  • 1/2 cup Sour Cream Contributes to a rich texture; Greek yogurt can replace it.
  • 1 cup Canned Pumpkin Puree Provides essential moisture and flavor; Libby's is recommended for best consistency.
  • 1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour Forms structure; swap in a gluten-free flour mix if needed.
  • 1/2 cup Black Cocoa Powder Imparts a deep chocolate flavor; regular cocoa powder is a suitable substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice Adds warmth and spice; mix cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in a pinch.
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Powder Essential leavening agents for rise.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda Essential leavening agents for rise.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Provides creamy texture and tang; make sure it's softened for easy mixing.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Creates a fluffy frosting consistency; must be softened before use.
  • 1/4 cup Dried Pumpkin Puree Ensures the frosting doesn't split; dryness is key—be careful!
  • 3-4 cups Powdered Sugar Sweetens and stabilizes the frosting; whisk until light and fluffy.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice Adds that signature fall flavor; adjust to taste for more or less spice.

Equipment

  • Cupcake pan
  • electric mixer
  • mixing bowls
  • whisk
  • Cooling rack
  • Cupcake liners

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with 12 cupcake liners.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer.
  3. Add the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and beat until smooth.
  4. Gradually add the whole milk, sour cream, and canned pumpkin puree, mixing until well combined.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, black cocoa powder, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  6. Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared cupcake liners, filling each about 3/4 full.
  8. Bake for 17-19 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  9. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
  10. For the frosting, dry the pumpkin puree on paper towels, then beat the softened butter until fluffy.
  11. Add the cream cheese, dried pumpkin, and spices, then mix well before gradually adding powdered sugar.
  12. Once the cupcakes are cool, pipe the cream cheese frosting onto each cupcake generously.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupcakeCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 33gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 400IUCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure all wet ingredients are at room temperature for the best texture. Use high-quality black cocoa powder for richer flavor.

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