Description
Warmth fills kitchens with delectable gingerbread cupcakes that bring holiday cheer straight from Christmas memories. Spiced batter and sweet frosting blend into a delightful treat serving comfort and joy to winter gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups (180 grams) all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup (115 grams) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) molasses
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) milk
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Frosting Ingredients (optional):
- 1/2 cup (115 grams) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups (240 grams) powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the oven environment by heating to 350°F and arranging cupcake liners in a standard muffin tin, ensuring even spacing.
- Combine all dry ingredients – flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt – in a medium mixing bowl, thoroughly whisking to distribute spices evenly.
- In a separate large bowl, cream butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and airy, creating a smooth base for the cupcake batter.
- Incorporate molasses into the butter mixture, blending until fully integrated and achieving a rich, dark color.
- Introduce eggs individually, mixing thoroughly after each addition to maintain a consistent texture and prevent curdling.
- Alternate adding dry ingredient mixture and milk to the wet ingredients, folding gently to create a smooth, lump-free batter. Finish by stirring in vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
- Distribute batter evenly into cupcake liners, filling each approximately two-thirds full to allow proper rising during baking.
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, monitoring until a toothpick inserted into the center emerges clean.
- Remove cupcakes from the oven and let them rest in the tin for a few minutes to stabilize their structure.
- Transfer cupcakes to a wire cooling rack, allowing them to reach room temperature completely before frosting.
- Prepare frosting by whipping softened butter until creamy, then gradually introducing powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt until achieving a smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Once cupcakes are fully cooled, generously apply frosting using a spatula or piping bag, creating decorative swirls or smooth surfaces.
- Optional: Enhance presentation by sprinkling cinnamon or festive decorations over the frosted cupcakes.
Notes
- Swap out regular flour with gluten-free flour blend for celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals, ensuring the same delightful texture and taste.
- Replace dairy milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk to create a dairy-free version that’s equally moist and flavorful.
- Reduce sugar content by using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, making these cupcakes a bit healthier without compromising on deliciousness.
- Add extra warmth and depth by incorporating finely chopped crystallized ginger into the batter for an intense gingerbread flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 215
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg