Introduction
Christmas is the time for cozy treats, and Ginger Molasses Spice Cupcakes are the perfect sweet addition to any holiday celebration. With their rich, spiced flavor of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses, these cupcakes are a comforting choice for the season. Paired with a tangy cream cheese frosting, they taste just like soft gingerbread cookies in cupcake form. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas party or baking for family and friends, these cupcakes will surely fill your home with the scent of holiday joy. Here’s a tried-and-true recipe that makes 12 festive cupcakes!
What is Ginger Molasses Spice Cupcakes?
Ginger Molasses Spice Cupcakes are a holiday-inspired dessert that combines the warm, comforting flavors of gingerbread with the light texture of a cupcake. The deep, earthy flavor of molasses is the star of the show, complemented by the spices of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. The cupcakes are topped with a rich and creamy frosting made from cream cheese and butter, making them the perfect treat for Christmas gatherings.
Origin of Ginger Molasses Spice Cupcakes
Gingerbread, which dates back to the 15th century, is the foundation of these cupcakes. The traditional gingerbread was often used to create cookies, cakes, and even edible decorations. Over time, recipes evolved, and cupcakes became a popular twist on classic gingerbread. These cupcakes, in particular, have a modern touch with the addition of cream cheese frosting, making them more indulgent while maintaining the warm, spiced flavor.
Ingredients with Quantity
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 ½ tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp cloves
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup molasses (unsulfured, like Grandma’s brand)
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup buttermilk (or ½ cup milk + 1 tsp vinegar, let sit for 5 minutes)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional for a “spiced frosting”)
- Pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
1. Preheat & Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with festive cupcake liners to make the cupcakes look extra special for the holidays.
2. Mix the Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Beat in the molasses, then add the egg and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined — be careful not to overmix, as this could result in dense cupcakes.
3. Bake the Cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.
4. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, then the vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. If you’d like to add some extra spice, mix in the cinnamon for a delightful twist. Beat until creamy and spreadable.
5. Frost and Decorate
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting. For a festive touch, you can decorate them with:
- Mini gingerbread cookies or gingerbread men sprinkles
- A dusting of cinnamon sugar or edible gold shimmer
- A drizzle of caramel sauce or molasses glaze
- A candied cranberry or a sprig of rosemary for a snowy, wintery look
Variations
While this Ginger Molasses Spice Cupcake recipe is already packed with flavor, you can experiment with some variations to suit your taste or the occasion:
- Vegan Version: Use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and a flax egg in place of the regular ingredients.
- Spiced Frosting: Add more cinnamon, nutmeg, or even some ground cloves to the frosting to make it spicier.
- Chocolate Molasses Cupcakes: For a chocolate twist, add ½ cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolate-ginger fusion.
- Add-ins: Toss in some chopped crystallized ginger or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
FAQs About Ginger Molasses Spice Cupcakes
1. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cupcakes a day ahead and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. The frosting can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the fridge — just bring it to room temperature before frosting.
2. Can I freeze the cupcakes?
Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 2 months. Make sure they are completely cooled before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Thaw them at room temperature before frosting.
3. Can I use a different type of frosting?
Of course! If you’re not a fan of cream cheese frosting, you can use a buttercream frosting or whipped cream as alternatives. However, the cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly with the spiced flavor of the cupcakes.
4. Can I substitute the molasses?
Molasses is an essential ingredient for the flavor of these cupcakes, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup. However, this will slightly alter the taste and texture of the cupcakes.
Conclusion: Ginger Molasses Spice Cupcakes
These Ginger Molasses Spice Cupcakes are a delightful treat that captures the essence of Christmas in every bite. With their spicy, rich flavor and creamy frosting, they’re sure to be a hit at your next holiday gathering. Whether you’re baking for a Christmas party, a family get-together, or simply to enjoy with a hot cup of cocoa, these cupcakes bring warmth, cheer, and festive spirit to any occasion. So, get baking and share the joy of the season with these delicious homemade treats!
Print
Ginger Molasses Spice Cupcakes: The Perfect Christmas Treat
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 cupcakes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Ginger Molasses Spice Cupcakes are a holiday-inspired dessert that combines the warm, comforting flavors of gingerbread with the light texture of a cupcake. The deep, earthy flavor of molasses is the star of the show, complemented by the spices of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. The cupcakes are topped with a rich and creamy frosting made from cream cheese and butter, making them the perfect treat for Christmas gatherings.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 ½ tsp ground ginger
1 tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
¼ tsp cloves
Wet Ingredients
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
½ cup brown sugar, packed
¼ cup granulated sugar
⅓ cup molasses (unsulfured, like Grandma’s brand)
1 large egg
½ cup buttermilk (or ½ cup milk + 1 tsp vinegar, let sit for 5 minutes)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Frosting
8 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 ½ cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ tsp cinnamon (optional for a “spiced frosting”)
Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Preheat & Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with festive cupcake liners to make the cupcakes look extra special for the holidays.
2. Mix the Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
Beat in the molasses, then add the egg and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined — be careful not to overmix, as this could result in dense cupcakes.
3. Bake the Cupcakes
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting.
4. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cupcakes are cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, then the vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. If you’d like to add some extra spice, mix in the cinnamon for a delightful twist. Beat until creamy and spreadable.
5. Frost and Decorate
Once the cupcakes are completely cool, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting. For a festive touch, you can decorate them with:
Mini gingerbread cookies or gingerbread men sprinkles
A dusting of cinnamon sugar or edible gold shimmer
A drizzle of caramel sauce or molasses glaze
A candied cranberry or a sprig of rosemary for a snowy, wintery look
Notes
For a festive touch, top your ginger molasses spice cupcakes with a swirl of cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of crushed candy canes, cinnamon sugar, or edible gold dust. Serve with a warm cup of spiced tea or hot cocoa for the ultimate holiday treat!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
