Name: Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes That Bring Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 53 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Substitution: Gluten-free flour with xanthan gum can be used.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Can be reduced slightly for less sweetness.); 1 tsp Baking Soda (Essential for fluffy texture.); 0.5 tsp Salt (Do not omit for best taste.); 1 tbsp Ground Ginger (Use fresh for the best aroma and taste.); 1 tbsp Ground Cinnamon (Essential for classic gingerbread flavor.); 0.5 tsp Ground Nutmeg (Best when freshly grated if possible.); 0.5 cups Vegetable/Canola Oil (Unsalted butter can be substituted but will change texture.); 0.5 cups Molasses (No substitutes recommended.); 2 large Eggs (Must be at room temperature.); 1 cup Buttermilk (To make: add 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar to milk and let sit.); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (Use pure vanilla for the best results.); 0.5 cups Unsalted Butter (Should be softened for easy mixing.); 8 oz Cream Cheese (Must be brick-style and chilled.); 4 cups Powdered Sugar (Sift to prevent lumps in buttercream.); 2 tbsp Heavy Cream (Can adjust amount for desired thickness.); 1 tbsp Espresso Powder (Can adjust quantity according to taste; can be omitted for plain frosting.)

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As the scent of warm spices fills the air, I can’t help but smile, knowing that the holidays are right around the corner. Let me introduce you to my cherished Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes, a perfect blend of festive flavors that will brighten up any gathering. These cupcakes are not only incredibly moist but also super easy to whip up, making them the ideal treat for even the busiest holiday schedule. Topped with a luscious espresso cream cheese buttercream, they capture the delightful essence of your favorite café drink. Whether you’re hosting a festive party or simply craving a cozy afternoon bake, these cupcakes promise to invigorate your spirit and satisfy your sweet tooth. Ready to indulge in a holiday favorite? Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes

Warm, Festive Flavors: Each bite delivers the delightful taste of gingerbread, enhanced by spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, instantly lifting your holiday spirit.

Moist Perfection: These cupcakes remain incredibly moist, ensuring a delightful texture that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can master this recipe in no time, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—celebrating the season!

Versatile Treat: These cupcakes are perfect for any occasion, from holiday parties to cozy family gatherings. Consider dressing them up with holiday sprinkles or fun toppings for a festive touch!

Decadent Topping: The espresso cream cheese buttercream is rich yet light, providing a creamy finish that pairs beautifully with the spiced cupcake base. They will be the star of your dessert table!

Gingerbread Latte Cupcake Ingredients

• Get ready to bake with these must-have ingredients!

For the Cupcakes

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; Substitution: Gluten-free flour with xanthan gum can be used.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in browning; Note: Can be reduced slightly for less sweetness.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent for lift; Essential for fluffy texture.
Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; Do not omit for best taste.
Ground Ginger – Primary spice flavor; Use fresh for the best aroma and taste.
Ground Cinnamon – Provides warmth and sweetness; Essential for classic gingerbread flavor.
Ground Nutmeg – Adds a hint of nutty spice; Best when freshly grated if possible.
Vegetable/Canola Oil – Adds moisture and helps maintain a soft crumb; Unsalted butter can be substituted but will change texture.
Molasses – Key for the gingerbread flavor and moisture; No substitutes recommended.
Eggs – Acts as a binder for the ingredients and adds richness; Must be at room temperature.
Buttermilk – Ensures moisture and lightness; To make: add 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar to milk and let sit.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor depth; Use pure vanilla for the best results.

For the Espresso Cream Cheese Buttercream

Unsalted Butter – Provides flavor and contributes to frosting texture; Should be softened for easy mixing.
Cream Cheese – Creates the rich frosting base; Must be brick-style and chilled.
Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the frosting and provides structure; Sift to prevent lumps in buttercream.
Heavy Cream – For achieving a silky, smooth frosting consistency; Can adjust amount for desired thickness.
Espresso Powder – Infuses a coffee flavor into the frosting; Can adjust quantity according to taste; can be omitted for plain frosting.

Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to baking delightful Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes that bring holiday cheer!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, line a standard cupcake tin with 16 cupcake liners. This ensures easy removal once the Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes are baked, and it also adds a festive touch as they rise and bake.

Step 2: Sift the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, salt, and ground spices (ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg). This step is crucial for aeration and ensures an even distribution of the spices throughout your Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes. Set the dry mixture aside as you move on to the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a stand mixer or large bowl, combine the vegetable oil, room temperature eggs, molasses, and vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients on medium speed until they are well incorporated, scraping down the sides of the bowl as necessary. This wet mixture will give your cupcakes their rich flavor and moist texture.

Step 4: Mix the Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix just until combined, ensuring not to over-mix, as this could lead to dense cupcakes. The batter will be slightly thick but should be smooth and free of lumps, perfect for your Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes.

Step 5: Fill the Cupcake Liners
Using a scoop or a spoon, fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with the batter. This allows room for the cupcakes to rise beautifully. Place the filled cupcake tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 18 minutes, or until the tops are domed and spring back when lightly pressed.

Step 6: Cool the Cupcakes
Once baked, remove the cupcake tin from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. After that, transfer the Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is essential before you frost them to prevent the icing from melting.

Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
For the espresso cream cheese buttercream, first beat the softened unsalted butter and chilled cream cheese in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Then, slowly add the sifted powdered sugar while mixing on low speed to avoid a sugar cloud. Continue mixing until smooth.

Step 8: Add Flavor to the Frosting
Once the powdered sugar is fully incorporated, add the vanilla extract, espresso powder, and heavy cream. Whip on high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy, achieving a silky-smooth consistency. Taste and adjust the espresso for your desired flavor intensity.

Step 9: Frost the Cupcakes
Once the Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes are completely cool, use a piping bag fitted with a decorative tip to frost each cupcake generously with the espresso cream cheese buttercream. Have fun with your piping style and enjoy the process of decorating these delightful treats!

Step 10: Final Touches
To add a festive flair, sprinkle a light dusting of cinnamon over the frosted cupcakes or top them with mini gingerbread cookies. These final touches will not only enhance the visual appeal but also amplify the cozy flavors of your Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes, making them truly irresistible!

Expert Tips for Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes

Chill the Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is chilled before use; a warm cream cheese can lead to a runny buttercream that won’t hold its shape.
Sift the Powdered Sugar: Always sift your powdered sugar before adding it to the frosting. This will ensure a smooth buttercream without any lumps, resulting in the perfect finish for your Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes.
Cool Completely: Allow your cupcakes to cool entirely on a wire rack before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off, keeping your beautiful creations intact.
Use Room Temperature Eggs: Always use room temperature eggs when mixing. Cold eggs can affect the texture and moisture of your cupcakes, so plan accordingly!
Filling Technique: Fill your cupcake liners about two-thirds full for the best results. This gives the batter enough room to rise beautifully without overflowing.

What to Serve with Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes

Delight your guests with these festive treats that pair perfectly with flavors of the season and warm beverages.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These rich, buttery potatoes provide a lovely contrast, ensuring a filling meal alongside your sweet cupcakes. They are a comfort food staple that everyone will cherish.
Spiced Apple Cider: Serve warm for a cozy touch that complements the ginger and spice of the cupcakes. The fruity notes will brighten the palate and enhance the holiday spirit.
Ginger Snap Cookies: These add a crunch and spice that echo the flavors in your cupcakes. A perfect side for cookie lovers, they can also serve as delightful gifts!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor and slight bitterness balance the sweetness of the cupcakes, adding a healthy and festive component to your holiday spread.
Chocolate Truffles: End your meal with these decadent bites that contrast the spice of your cupcakes while indulging chocolate lovers. Rich and creamy, they’ll elevate any dessert table.
Eggnog: This classic holiday beverage pairs beautifully with the moist gingerbread flavors, creating a warming experience that wraps you in holiday cheer.

These pairing ideas ensure your Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes shine at any festive gathering, transforming them into part of a delightful feast!

Make Ahead Options

These Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes are perfect for meal prep to ease your holiday baking efforts! You can bake the cupcakes up to 3 days in advance, allowing them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. Prepare the espresso cream cheese buttercream up to 24 hours ahead and keep it refrigerated; when it’s time to serve, simply whip it briefly to restore its fluffiness. To maintain the cupcakes’ moistness, consider wrapping them individually in plastic wrap before refrigerating. This way, they’ll still taste just as delightful when you frost and serve them at your festive gatherings!

Storage Tips for Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes

Room Temperature: Keep unfrosted cupcakes covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them moist and ready for a quick treat.

Fridge: If you prefer, store frosted Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Allow to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cupcakes in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to an airtight freezer bag. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy, thaw frozen cupcakes overnight in the fridge and frost just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes Variations

Feel free to explore different flavors and tweaks to make these Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes truly your own!

Spice It Up: Add Cardamom for a unique flavor twist; a little goes a long way and brings a warming spice to the cupcakes.
Coffee Extract: Swap Espresso Powder for Coffee Extract for a smoother coffee flavor; it’s fantastic for those who find espresso a bit too bold.
Nutty Addition: Stir in Chopped Nuts like walnuts or pecans into the batter for delightful texture and nuttiness; they add crunch in every bite.
Festive Sprinkles: Top with Holiday Sprinkles or edible glitter for a fun, festive look; they add a colorful touch that’s perfect for celebrations!
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute Plant-Based Milk and Vegan Butter in the cupcakes and frosting for a dairy-free treat; nobody will miss the dairy with these adjustments!
Fruity Twist: Add Dried Cranberries or Chopped Dates into the batter for a chewy burst of sweetness; they complement the gingerbread spices beautifully.
Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle Chocolate Ganache or melted chocolate on top for a rich, decadent variation; chocolate paired with gingerbread is a match made in heaven.
Heat It Up: Stir in a pinch of Cayenne Pepper for a hint of warmth; it adds an unexpected kick that balances the sweetness perfectly.

Get creative and enjoy the festive spirit with every customized batch! If you’re looking for more ways to elevate your baking, check out these delightful tips and resources on How to Store Cupcakes and discover ideas that will transform your holiday treats into something truly special.

Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes Recipe FAQs

What kind of flour should I use for Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for the best texture. However, if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum to help with the structure.

How can I store leftover Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes?
For unfrosted cupcakes, keep them covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain moisture. If frosted, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Allow them to sit out for a few minutes before enjoying to enhance the flavors.

Can I freeze Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes?
Absolutely! To freeze, place unfrosted cupcakes in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 1-2 hours until firm. Then transfer them to an airtight freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. For the best results, frost them after thawing overnight in the fridge.

What should I do if my buttercream is too runny?
If your espresso cream cheese buttercream is runny, it usually means the cream cheese was too warm or not enough powdered sugar was added. To fix it, you can place the frosting in the fridge for 15-30 minutes to firm up, then re-whip it. Alternatively, add more sifted powdered sugar gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.

Are these cupcakes safe for people with nut allergies?
Yes, the basic gingerbread latte cupcake recipe is nut-free, but always double-check your ingredient labels. If you’re using brands like certain butter substitutes or gluten-free flours, ensure they are produced in a nut-free facility to avoid cross-contamination.

Can I make advanced preparations for these cupcakes?
Absolutely! You can bake the Gingerbread Latte Cupcakes in advance and store them unfrosted at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze them as detailed above. Prepare the frosting on the day you plan to serve for peak freshness and flavor.