If you’re looking for a delightful treat to impress your guests or simply want to indulge in the warm flavors of the season, these Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cinnamon Vanilla Buttercream Frosting are sure to be a hit. The rich spiciness of the gingerbread paired with the creamy sweetness of the frosting creates a perfect balance of flavors in each mouthwatering bite.
**Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cinnamon Vanilla Buttercream Frosting**
**Ingredients:**
For the Gingerbread Cupcakes:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground cloves
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– ¼ teaspoon baking soda
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– ½ cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– ½ cup molasses
– ½ cup hot water
For the Cinnamon Vanilla Buttercream Frosting:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2-3 tablespoons milk
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the molasses until fully incorporated.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the hot water, and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean.
8. Remove the cupcakes from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Meanwhile, prepare the Cinnamon Vanilla Buttercream Frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon, mixing until smooth and creamy.
10. Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. If the frosting is too thick, add more milk; if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
11. Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, pipe or spread the frosting onto the cupcakes using a piping bag or offset spatula.
12. For an extra touch, sprinkle a little extra ground cinnamon on top of the cupcakes for decoration.
These Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cinnamon Vanilla Buttercream Frosting are a wonderful treat for holiday gatherings, cozy evenings at home, or anytime you’re craving a taste of the season. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of gingerbread and the delicious sweetness of the frosting in every delightful bite!
