Pumpkin Dream Cupcakes Espresso (Printable Version)

Moist spiced pumpkin cupcakes with luscious espresso cream cheese frosting for cozy fall celebrations.

# What You'll Need:

→ Cupcakes

01 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 2 teaspoons baking soda
03 - 1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
04 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
05 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
06 - 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
07 - 1 3/4 cups brown sugar
08 - 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
09 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil
10 - 4 large eggs
11 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

→ Espresso Cream Cheese Frosting

12 - 1 (8 ounce) block cream cheese, softened
13 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
14 - 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
15 - 1 to 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
16 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a cupcake tin with liners.
02 - Whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg until evenly combined.
03 - In a large bowl, whisk pumpkin puree, brown sugar, Greek yogurt, and vegetable oil until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each, then stir in vanilla extract.
04 - Fold dry ingredients into wet mixture gently until no large lumps remain; avoid overmixing to ensure tender cupcakes.
05 - Spoon batter into liners, filling three-quarters full. Bake for 28 to 32 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
06 - Remove cupcakes from oven and cool completely for about 30 minutes before frosting to prevent melting.
07 - Beat softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and espresso powder, beating until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
08 - Spread or pipe espresso cream cheese frosting onto cooled cupcakes. Refrigerate for best results; cupcakes can be left at room temperature for a few hours if served soon.

# Additional Notes:

01 - For a stronger spice profile, consider adding a pinch of allspice or extra cinnamon to the dry ingredients.