Pumpkin spice latte season is the highlight of fall for many, but what if you could enjoy those same comforting flavors in a dessert? Pumpkin spice latte cupcakes with espresso frosting capture the cozy essence of the iconic drink in every bite. These cupcakes are rich, warmly spiced, and topped with a creamy espresso-infused frosting that will have you savoring autumn all year long.

Why You’ll Love These Cupcakes

Pumpkin spice latte cupcakes are:

• Full of fall flavors: Pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves create a warm, seasonal taste.
• Perfectly balanced: The sweetness of the cupcake complements the bold espresso frosting.
• Ideal for any occasion: Whether it’s a fall gathering, Thanksgiving dessert table, or just a treat for yourself, these cupcakes fit the bill.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cupcakes:

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	1 ½ cups
Baking soda	½ tsp
Baking powder	½ tsp
Ground cinnamon	1 tsp
Ground ginger	½ tsp
Ground nutmeg	¼ tsp
Ground cloves	¼ tsp
Salt	¼ tsp
Brown sugar (packed)	½ cup
Granulated sugar	½ cup
Unsalted butter (melted)	½ cup
Canned pumpkin puree	¾ cup
Brewed espresso or strong coffee	¼ cup
Eggs	2 large
Vanilla extract	1 tsp

For the Espresso Frosting:

Ingredient	Quantity
Unsalted butter (softened)	½ cup
Powdered sugar	4 cups
Brewed espresso or strong coffee	¼ cup
Vanilla extract	1 tsp

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes with Espresso Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
2. Line a cupcake tin with paper liners to prepare for baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
2. Set the dry ingredients aside.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, beat together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, and melted butter.
2. Stir in the pumpkin puree, espresso, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine the Mixtures

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
2. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can result in dense cupcakes.

Step 5: Fill the Cupcake Liners

1. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full.
2. Smooth the tops with a spoon if necessary.

Step 6: Bake the Cupcakes

1. Place the cupcake tin in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
3. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Espresso Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and fluffy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the espresso and vanilla extract until the frosting reaches a creamy consistency.

Step 8: Frost the Cupcakes

1. Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, pipe or spread the espresso frosting onto each cupcake.
2. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel for an extra touch.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown per cupcake (based on 12 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320
Total Fat	15g
Saturated Fat	9g
Carbohydrates	45g
Sugar	34g
Protein	3g

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes

• Use room-temperature ingredients: This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the cupcakes light and fluffy.
• Cool completely before frosting: Warm cupcakes can cause the frosting to melt and slide off.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding crushed espresso beans, white chocolate shavings, or a dash of nutmeg.

FAQs About Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes with Espresso Frosting

1. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time? Yes! Store the unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. Frost just before serving.

2. Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso? Absolutely. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of instant coffee in 2 tablespoons of hot water as a substitute for espresso.

3. Can I make these cupcakes dairy-free? Yes, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use plant-based milk in the frosting if needed.

4. How should I store leftover cupcakes? Store frosted cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving.

5. Can I use homemade pumpkin puree? Yes, but make sure it’s well-drained to avoid adding excess moisture to the batter.

6. What if I don’t have piping bags for frosting? Use a zip-top bag with the corner cut off, or simply spread the frosting with a butter knife for a rustic look.

Why These Cupcakes Are Perfect for Fall

Pumpkin spice latte cupcakes with espresso frosting bring the essence of fall into every bite. They’re the perfect blend of cozy pumpkin spice flavors and rich coffee notes, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering, celebrating the season, or simply indulging your love of pumpkin spice, these cupcakes are sure to impress.

Bake Your Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes Today

Ready to embrace the flavors of fall? Gather your ingredients and whip up a batch of these delicious pumpkin spice latte cupcakes with espresso frosting. Share them with friends, enjoy them with a cup of coffee, or savor them as a special treat for yourself. Happy baking!

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