Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcakes

These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcakes are a delightful treat that brings the cozy flavors of fall to your kitchen. Perfect for any occasion, these cupcakes are not only moist and fluffy but are also topped with a rich chocolate frosting. The combination of pumpkin, warm spices, and mini chocolate chips creates a delicious dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these cupcakes can be whipped up in no time.
• Flavorful Delight: The blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, and chocolate delivers a unique taste that captures the essence of autumn.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for gatherings, holidays, or as an everyday snack, these cupcakes fit any occasion perfectly.
• Kid-Friendly: Mini chocolate chips make these treats irresistible for kids (and adults!), ensuring everyone will love them.
• Decorative Options: Top with extra chocolate chips or festive sprinkles to make them visually appealing for parties.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Muffin tin
• Cupcake liners

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without making a mess.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when beating the batter and frosting to a fluffy consistency.
• Muffin tin: Provides the perfect shape for your cupcakes, ensuring even baking.

Ingredients

To make these delightful Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcakes, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Cupcakes

• 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• pinch ground cloves
• pinch nutmeg
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2/3 cup white sugar
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1/3 cup milk (buttermilk or regular)
• 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips

For the Frosting

• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 3-4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
• 3/4 cup cocoa powder (sifted)
• 6-8 tablespoons whipping cream
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (for decorating)

How to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcakes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking for your cupcakes.

Step 2: Prepare Your Muffin Tin

Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. This will help with easy removal after baking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Cornstarch
3. Baking powder
4. Baking soda
5. Salt
6. Ground cinnamon
7. Ground cloves
8. Nutmeg

Whisk together until well blended.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix:
1. Vegetable oil
2. Brown sugar
3. White sugar
4. Eggs
5. Vanilla extract
6. Pumpkin puree
7. Milk

Use an electric mixer to beat until smooth.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Fold in Mini Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the mini chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake the Cupcakes

Pour the batter into prepared muffin tins, filling each liner about two-thirds full. Bake for about 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Frost

Once baked, allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting with chocolate buttercream made from unsalted butter, sifted powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and whipping cream.

Enjoy these delicious Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcakes at your next gathering or as a cozy treat on a chilly day!

How to Serve Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcakes

These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcakes are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a fall gathering or a cozy night in, they are sure to delight everyone with their delicious flavors.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each cupcake with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra creamy texture that complements the chocolate and pumpkin.

A Side of Ice Cream

• Serve alongside vanilla or cinnamon ice cream. The cold creaminess pairs beautifully with the warm spices in the cupcakes.

Festive Platter

• Arrange on a decorative platter with seasonal fruits like apples and pears. This adds color and freshness to your dessert table.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Drizzle caramel sauce over the cupcakes before serving. It adds a sweet, gooey touch that enhances the overall flavor.

Coffee Pairing

• Pair these cupcakes with a cup of hot coffee or spiced latte. The warmth of the drink contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cupcakes.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcakes

To achieve the best results with your Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcakes, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.

• Sift Dry Ingredients: Sifting flour, cocoa powder, and powdered sugar helps eliminate lumps and creates a lighter cupcake.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to avoid dense cupcakes. Overmixing can lead to tough baked goods.

• Check Doneness Early: Bake until a toothpick comes out clean or with just a few crumbs. Timing varies by oven, so keep an eye on them.

• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow cupcakes to cool fully before adding frosting; this prevents melting and maintains the frosting’s shape.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcakes

Pair these delightful cupcakes with complementary side dishes to create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Chai-Spiced Tea: This warm beverage enhances the spices in your cupcakes while providing a cozy contrast.

2. Apple Crisp: A warm apple crisp topped with oats brings out fall flavors that match perfectly with pumpkin.

3. Cheesecake Bites: Creamy cheesecake bites provide a rich and tangy contrast to the sweet cupcakes.

4. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cupcakes.

5. Nutty Granola Bar: Crunchy granola bars offer texture and nutty flavors that complement pumpkin nicely.

6. Chocolate Fondue: For an interactive dessert experience, serve mini marshmallows or fruit for dipping into melted chocolate alongside your cupcakes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking these Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcakes can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to keep in mind.

• Using pumpkin pie filling: Always use pure pumpkin puree for the best flavor and texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cupcakes fluffy and light. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, which is vital for baking.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allow your cupcakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and ensures even frosting application.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature. This helps the ingredients blend more smoothly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cupcakes in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcakes

• Freeze cupcakes before frosting for best results.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcakes

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual cupcakes for 10-15 seconds on high; check for warmth.
• Stovetop: Place in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, checking frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcakes.

Can I make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcakes gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.

What can I use instead of chocolate chips?

Try using dried fruits like cranberries or nuts if you want a different flavor profile without chocolate.

How do I make the frosting less sweet?

To balance sweetness, add a pinch of salt or mix in some unsweetened cocoa powder for depth.

Can I add nuts to my Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcakes?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add delightful crunch and flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcakes are not only delicious but also versatile. They capture the essence of fall with their warm spices and rich pumpkin flavor. You can customize them with different frostings or toppings according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; they are sure to impress!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcakes

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of fall with these Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cupcakes! These moist and fluffy treats combine the warm spices of pumpkin with rich chocolate, making them perfect for any occasion from cozy gatherings to festive celebrations. Topped with a luscious chocolate frosting, these cupcakes are sure to impress family and friends while satisfying your sweet tooth. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch in no time. Bake these cupcakes to enjoy a taste of autumn all year round!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cornstarch
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• pinch ground cloves
• pinch nutmeg
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 2/3 cup white sugar
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1/3 cup milk (buttermilk or regular)
• 3/4 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 3–4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
• 3/4 cup cocoa powder (sifted)
• 6–8 tablespoons whipping cream
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips (for decorating)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, mix vegetable oil, brown sugar, white sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, pumpkin puree, and milk until smooth.
4. Gradually combine the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Gently fold in mini chocolate chips.
5. Pour the batter into prepared muffin tins and bake for about 15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cupcake (60g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 18g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 35mg