Gingerbread Cupcakes

These Gingerbread Cupcakes are the perfect blend of warm spices, rich molasses, and moist cake, topped with a creamy frosting that balances their bold flavor. Ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in, these cupcakes deliver all the festive flavors of traditional gingerbread in a fun, handheld dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, spiced flavor perfect for the holiday season
• Moist and tender cupcake texture
• Easy to make and decorate
• Great for gifting or party desserts
• Versatile for different frostings and toppings
• Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
• Uses simple pantry staples
• Warm, cozy aroma while baking
• A festive twist on a classic treat
• Can be made ahead and stored easily

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Ground ginger
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground cloves
• Salt
• Unsalted butter
• Brown sugar
• Egg
• Molasses
• Vanilla extract
• Milk
• Cream cheese (for frosting)
• Powdered sugar (for frosting)
• Optional: whipped cream, sprinkles, or gingerbread cookies for topping

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a cupcake pan with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg, then stir in the molasses and vanilla extract.
5. Alternately add the dry ingredients and milk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry.
6. Mix just until combined—do not overmix.
7. Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with batter.
8. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let cupcakes cool completely before frosting.
10. Prepare the cream cheese frosting and pipe or spread onto cooled cupcakes. Decorate as desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 cupcakes
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Maple Frosting: Swap cream cheese frosting for maple buttercream.
• Vegan Option: Use a plant-based milk, egg replacer, and vegan butter.
• Spiced Whipped Cream: For a lighter topping, use cinnamon-spiced whipped cream.
• Mini Cupcakes: Use a mini muffin pan and reduce baking time to 10–12 minutes.
• Extra Spicy: Add a pinch of black pepper or nutmeg for an extra kick.
• Orange Zest: Add orange zest to the batter for a citrus twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Frosted cupcakes should be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, place unfrosted cupcakes in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and frost before serving.
Reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to soften if desired (unfrosted only).

FAQs

What type of molasses should I use?

Use unsulphured molasses for the best flavor. Avoid blackstrap molasses, as it’s too bitter for baking.

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, bake the cupcakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Frost before serving.

What’s the best frosting for gingerbread cupcakes?

Cream cheese frosting complements the spices well, but you can also use vanilla or maple buttercream.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Double all ingredients and bake in two batches or use two cupcake pans.

Do I need to refrigerate these cupcakes?

Only if they’re frosted with cream cheese frosting. Unfrosted cupcakes can stay at room temp for a couple of days.

How do I know when the cupcakes are done?

Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re done.

Can I use fresh ginger instead of ground?

You can, but use it sparingly—about 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger for a milder spice.

Can kids eat these cupcakes?

Yes, these cupcakes are non-alcoholic and kid-friendly.

Can I bake this recipe as a cake instead?

Yes, pour the batter into a greased 8-inch cake pan and bake for 25–30 minutes.

Conclusion

Gingerbread Cupcakes bring the magic of the holidays into every bite, offering rich, spiced flavor and a soft, fluffy texture that’s irresistible. Whether topped with classic cream cheese frosting or dressed up with festive garnishes, they’re sure to impress family and friends. Make a batch today and let the cozy aroma fill your kitchen.

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