Pumpkin Caramel Cupcakes with Maple Frosting

Okay, these cupcakes? They taste like fall in every bite. Pumpkin, caramel, and maple—like, come on.

We made a batch last weekend, and wow—they were so soft and cozy. The caramel melts right in, and that maple frosting? Honestly, I could eat it with a spoon.

They’re sweet but not too sweet. Kinda like a warm hug on a cold day. And the best part? They’re super easy to make.

So let’s bake them. You bring the pumpkin, I’ll bring the magic. Let’s go.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Moist: Thanks to pumpkin puree and vegetable oil, these cupcakes stay soft and tender for days.
• Rich Caramel Flavor: A swirl of caramel sauce inside the batter and on top adds an indulgent touch.
• Dreamy Maple Frosting: The buttercream has a delightful maple flavor that perfectly complements the pumpkin and caramel.
• Perfect for Fall & Holidays: These cupcakes are made for cozy autumn days, Thanksgiving feasts, and festive gatherings.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake the cupcakes in advance and frost them when ready to serve!

Required Kitchen Tools

Before we start, here are the tools you’ll need:

• Muffin tin: Standard 12-cup muffin pan
• Cupcake liners: To prevent sticking
• Mixing bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients
• Whisk & spatula: For smooth batter mixing
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: For whipping up the maple frosting
• Piping bag & tip: For frosting the cupcakes beautifully
• Toothpick: For testing doneness

Ingredients

These cupcakes are packed with fall spices, real pumpkin, and gooey caramel. Here’s what you’ll need:

Dry Ingredients

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour – Provides the base structure for the cupcakes.
• 1 tsp baking powder – Helps the cupcakes rise.
• ½ tsp baking soda – Works with the baking powder for a light, fluffy texture.
• ½ tsp salt – Balances the sweetness.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon – A classic warm spice.
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg – Adds depth and richness.
• ¼ tsp ground ginger – A hint of spice that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.

Wet Ingredients

• ¾ cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling!) – Keeps the cupcakes moist and flavorful.
• ½ cup vegetable oil – Ensures a soft, tender crumb.
• ½ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cupcakes.
• ½ cup brown sugar – Adds moisture and a slight caramel-like flavor.
• 2 large eggs – Provide structure and richness.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances all the warm flavors.
• ¼ cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling!) – Adds a decadent touch inside and on top of the cupcakes.

Ingredients for the Maple Frosting

This maple buttercream is smooth, fluffy, and not overly sweet.

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Creates a creamy frosting base.
• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted – Sweetens and thickens the frosting.
• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup – Gives a deep maple flavor.
• 1-2 tbsp milk – Adjusts consistency to make the frosting smooth and spreadable.

Variations for Pumpkin Caramel Cupcakes

Want to customize your cupcakes? Try these ideas:

• Add Nuts: Fold in ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
• Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips to the batter.
• Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap maple frosting for classic cream cheese frosting.
• Extra Spice: If you love bold flavors, increase the cinnamon and nutmeg slightly.
• Salted Caramel: Sprinkle sea salt over the caramel drizzle for a sweet-salty contrast.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cupcake Batter

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth.
4. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix—this keeps the cupcakes light and fluffy!
6. Fold in ¼ cup caramel sauce, creating a slight swirl in the batter.

2. Bake the Cupcakes

1. Divide the batter evenly among the 12 cupcake liners, filling each about ¾ full.
2. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Remove from the oven and let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Maple Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until creamy (about 2 minutes).
2. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, beating until smooth.
3. Pour in the maple syrup and 1 tablespoon of milk, beating until fluffy.
4. If the frosting is too thick, add an extra tablespoon of milk until it reaches a pipeable consistency.

Frosting & Decoration

Now for the fun part—decorating your cupcakes!

Frost the Cupcakes

1. Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, transfer the maple frosting into a piping bag fitted with a large round or star tip.
2. Pipe swirls of frosting onto each cupcake, starting from the outer edge and working inward.

Drizzle with Caramel

• Warm up some caramel sauce and drizzle it over the frosted cupcakes for an extra indulgent touch.

Optional Garnishes

• Chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• A sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth.
• A mini caramel candy on top for a bakery-style look.

How to Serve Pumpkin Caramel Cupcakes

These Pumpkin Caramel Cupcakes are perfect for a variety of occasions, from cozy nights in to festive parties. Here’s how to serve them:

• At Fall Gatherings: Set these cupcakes out at your next Thanksgiving dinner or fall party. They pair wonderfully with warm drinks like apple cider, spiced chai, or a cozy latte.
• For an Afternoon Treat: These cupcakes make the perfect afternoon snack when you need a sweet pick-me-up.
• At Breakfast or Brunch: The rich flavors of maple and pumpkin make them ideal for a fall-themed brunch. Serve alongside scrambled eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit for a balanced spread.
• As a Gift: Wrap the cupcakes in cellophane and tie with a ribbon for a delicious homemade gift. They’ll be a hit with friends and family!

Storing Pumpkin Caramel Cupcakes

If you find yourself with leftover cupcakes (lucky you!), here’s how to store them properly:

• At Room Temperature: Store unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. For frosted cupcakes, it’s best to store them in the fridge to keep the frosting fresh.
• In the Refrigerator: Store the frosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
• Freezing: You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature, then frost as desired.

Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories: 410
Total Fat: 22g	28%
• Saturated Fat: 10g	50%
• Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 55mg	18%
Sodium: 220mg	10%
Total Carbohydrate: 52g	19%
• Dietary Fiber: 1g	4%
• Total Sugars: 38g
• Includes 32g Added Sugars	64%
Protein: 3g
Vitamin D: 0.5mcg	2%
Calcium: 60mg	5%
Iron: 1.2mg	6%
Potassium: 160mg	3%

Pumpkin Caramel Cupcake FAQs

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cupcakes a day ahead and store them in an airtight container. Frost them the day you plan to serve for the freshest results.

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling?

No, make sure to use plain pumpkin puree. Pumpkin pie filling contains added spices and sugar, which could alter the flavor and texture of your cupcakes.

Can I substitute the maple syrup in the frosting?

While maple syrup gives a unique flavor, you can substitute it with honey or even caramel syrup if needed. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change.

Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips or chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

These Pumpkin Caramel Cupcakes with Maple Frosting are truly the embodiment of fall in every bite! With their soft, spiced pumpkin flavor, rich caramel center, and silky maple frosting, they’re bound to be a favorite in your dessert rotation. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or as a cozy treat, they’re sure to impress. So, go ahead—bake these cupcakes, share them with loved ones, and savor every sweet, spiced moment of fall!