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Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Enjoy delicious Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting, perfect for cozy gatherings and festive occasions.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Cooling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 53 minutes
Servings: 12 cupcakes
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Gingerbread Cupcake Ingredients
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour A key ingredient for a tender texture.
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder Adds a subtle depth to the flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon ground ginger Infuses warmth and spice to your cupcakes.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Ensures a nice rise for your cupcake batter.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon A classic spice that enhances the gingerbread essence.
  • 1 teaspoon ground all-spice Brings an aromatic twist to the flavor profile.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves Just a hint adds a cozy, festive touch.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg Perfectly complements the warm spices.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda Works in tandem with the baking powder for optimal lift.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter Richness that melds beautifully with the spices.
  • 2 tablespoons fresh ginger Provides a bold, zesty contrast to the other flavors.
  • 1 cup dark brown sugar Imparts a deep sweetness and moisture to the cupcakes.
  • 2 large eggs Essential for binding and creating a fluffy structure.
  • 1/2 cup unsulphured molasses Offers that signature gingerbread flavor and color.
  • 1/4 cup canola oil Keeps the cupcakes moist and tender.
  • 1/2 cup hot water Helps to dissolve the ingredients perfectly for a smooth batter.
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
  • 8 ounces cream cheese Gives the frosting its iconic tangy flavor.
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter Adds creaminess and rich flavor to the frosting base.
  • 4 cups confectioners' sugar Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfection.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness for a well-rounded flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon orange juice A splash brightens the frosting with citrus notes.
Maple Sugared Cranberries Ingredients
  • 1 cup maple syrup Sweetens and enhances the cranberries' natural flavors.
  • 1/2 cup water Helps create the syrup for soaking the cranberries.
  • 2 cups fresh cranberries Tart and vibrant, perfect for garnishing.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar Coats the cranberries for a delightful sweetness.

Equipment

  • muffin tin
  • Mixing bowls
  • stand mixer
  • rubber spatula
  • Measuring Cups
  • Whisk
  • piping bag

Method
 

Cupcake Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, ground ginger, baking powder, ground cinnamon, allspice, cloves, nutmeg, and baking soda. Set aside.
  3. In another medium bowl, mix melted butter, fresh grated ginger, dark brown sugar, eggs, molasses, and canola oil, whisking until smooth.
  4. Fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture gently to avoid overmixing.
  5. Pour in half a cup of freshly boiled hot water and whisk gently until fully blended.
  6. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin liners, filling each about 3/4 full.
  7. Bake for 16 to 18 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through. Check with a toothpick.
  8. Cool the cupcakes in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Frosting and Topping
  1. In a stand mixer, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy, about 4 minutes.
  2. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, mixing well after each addition, then add salt and orange juice, blending until smooth.
  3. Frost the cooled cupcakes with the cream cheese frosting using a piping bag.
  4. Prepare maple sugared cranberries by boiling maple syrup and water, then adding and simmering fresh cranberries.
  5. Roll the dried cranberries in granulated sugar to coat and let them sit at room temperature for 2 hours.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupcakeCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 3gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Optionally, top with a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra cozy touch. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.

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