Ingredients
Cupcake Base
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Passion Fruit Sauce


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Frosting

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Instructions
Step 1
Start by whisking 2 large eggs with 180 grams (1 cup) of brown sugar in a mixing bowl using a high-speed mixer for about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the mixture.
If you prefer, you can substitute the brown sugar with white sugar, but the brown variety lends a caramel flavor to the cupcakes.
Step 2
Next, add 125 grams (1/2 cup) of pumpkin puree and 100 grams (1/2 cup) of vegetable oil to the egg and sugar mixture. Continue mixing on a low speed for about 1 minute until well combined.
You can use store-bought pumpkin puree or make your own by roasting pumpkin pieces in the oven at 200 degrees Celsius (400 degrees Fahrenheit) for around 30 minutes until soft, then blend.
Step 3
In a separate bowl, stir together 150 grams (1 1/4 cups) of all-purpose flour and 8 grams (2 teaspoons) of baking powder. Gradually add this mix to the pumpkin batter while mixing on low speed until just combined.
Step 4
Prepare your cupcake liners and fill each liner with the batter, filling them 2/3 full (approximately 55 grams of batter each). Place them in a preheated oven set to 170 degrees Celsius (340 degrees Fahrenheit) and bake for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow them to cool completely.
Step 5
In a saucepan, combine 115 grams (1/2 cup) of passion fruit puree with 65 grams (1/3 cup) of granulated sugar and 20 grams (1 tablespoon) of water. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Then dissolve 7 grams (1 tablespoon) of cornstarch in 15 grams (1 tablespoon) of water and stir it into the boiling mixture. Cook it for another 1-2 minutes while constantly stirring until it thickens. Remove from heat and allow to cool before transferring it to a piping bag.
Step 6
Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, use the piping bag to fill the centers of each cupcake with the prepared passion fruit sauce. This will add a delightful surprise inside!
Step 7
In a mixing bowl, combine 600 grams (21 ounces) of cream cheese, 120 grams (1/2 cup) of heavy cream, and 65-80 grams (1/2 cup) of powdered sugar.
Beat the mixture on high speed for about 2-3 minutes until smooth and creamy. Adjust the sweetness according to your taste.
Step 8
Lastly, generously pipe the cream cheese frosting onto the cooled cupcakes in high peaks. Enjoy your delicious pumpkin cupcakes, perfect for fall gatherings!
Servings
These pumpkin cupcakes are not just a treat for the taste buds; they also serve as a stunning centerpiece for any gathering! 🍂✨ Pair them with a cup of warm chai tea for an afternoon indulgence. Imagine savoring these soft delights while wrapped in a cozy blanket as the leaves fall outside.
For a light dessert after a filling meal, serve them with a sprinkle of cinnamon powder or a dollop of whipped cream for extra flair. The balance of flavors will leave your guests in absolute bliss! 🌟
Don't forget to experiment with toppings; a drizzle of chocolate or a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds can add that personal touch. Let your creativity run wild!
Equipment
Make sure you have a spacious mixing bowl that can accommodate all your ingredients while allowing for proper mixing.
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An electric mixer is ideal for whipping up your batter quickly. Don’t forget to start on a low speed before increasing to avoid a flour explosion!
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A standard cupcake pan works perfectly for this recipe. Ensure it's well greased or lined with cupcake liners for easy removal.
A pastry bag is essential for beautifully filling your cupcakes with the passion fruit sauce. A small round tip creates a perfect filling hole.
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Variations
Looking for a different twist? 🥳 Here are some gluten-free and vegan variations to delight everyone:
Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a blend of gluten-free all-purpose flour and a teaspoon of xanthan gum to maintain that fluffy texture. Your cupcakes will be just as delicious without the gluten! 🌾🚫
Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and use plant-based alternatives for cream cheese and heavy cream. You’ll have plant-powered pumpkin cupcakes that everyone can enjoy! 🌱❤️
Faq
- What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
You can use either homemade pumpkin puree or canned pumpkin puree. Make sure it's pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling to avoid added sugars and spices!
- How do I know my cupcakes are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready to come out of the oven!
- Can I use other types of squash for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute pumpkin with butternut squash or any sweet winter squash for a fun twist.
- How can I make the frosting more stable?
Add a tablespoon of cornstarch to your frosting mix or use a higher fat content cream cheese to help maintain stability.
- Can I freeze the cupcakes?
Yes! After baking, let them cool completely and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before freezing. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
- What’s the best way to store these cupcakes?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor!