Gingerbread Cupcakes with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting

Gingerbread Cupcakes with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Gingerbread cupcakes with lemon cream cheese frosting are a delightful treat that combines the warm, spicy flavors of gingerbread with the tangy sweetness of lemon cream cheese frosting. These cupcakes are perfect for holiday gatherings, parties, or just as a special treat for yourself.

History

Gingerbread has been a popular dessert for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. The combination of ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and molasses creates a rich and flavorful cake that is perfect for the winter months. The addition of lemon cream cheese frosting adds a refreshing twist to this classic recipe.

Ingredients

1.25 cups flour
1.5 tsp ground ginger
1 tsp cinnamon
0.25 tsp ground cloves
0.5 tsp allspice
0.25 tsp salt
0.5 stick + 2 tbsp unsalted butter
0.5 cup granulated sugar
0.5 cup molasses
1 large egg, beaten lightly
1 tsp baking soda
8 oz (227 g) cream cheese, softened
1.5 cups confectioners' sugar
0.5 tsp vanilla
1 tsp grated lemon zest
2 tsp fresh lemon juice
1 tbsp sliced crystallized ginger

How to prepare

Sift together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and salt into a bowl.
In another bowl, cream 0.5 stick of butter. Add granulated sugar and beat until fluffy.
Beat in molasses and egg until smooth.
Combine baking soda with 0.5 cup boiling water in a measuring cup. Stir to dissolve baking soda.
Stir the baking soda mixture into the molasses mixture (the mixture will appear curdled). Then, stir the molasses mixture into the flour mixture until well combined.
Line twelve 0.5 cup muffin tins with paper liners. Spoon the batter into the liners, filling them halfway.
Bake the cupcakes in a preheated 350°F (177°C) oven for 20 minutes, or until a tester comes out clean (the cupcakes will be flat or slightly indented on top).
Transfer the cupcakes to a rack and let them cool.
In a bowl, cream together the cream cheese and the remaining 2 tbsp butter. Add confectioners' sugar and vanilla. Beat until fluffy and smooth.
Beat in the zest and lemon juice. Chill the frosting for 30 minutes.
Frost the cupcakes and top each with some ginger.
Enjoy.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the batter for added texture and flavor.
Use orange zest instead of lemon for a different citrus twist.
Top the cupcakes with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra spice.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to sift the dry ingredients together to ensure a smooth and evenly mixed batter.

- Be sure to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy to create a tender cupcake.

- Do not overmix the batter once the wet and dry ingredients are combined to avoid a tough cupcake.

- Allow the cupcakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

Serving Suggestions

These cupcakes are perfect for serving at holiday parties, bake sales, or as a special dessert for a family dinner.

Cooking Techniques

Creaming butter and sugar

- Sifting dry ingredients

- Beating cream cheese frosting until fluffy

Ingredient Substitutions

Use honey or maple syrup instead of molasses

- Use margarine or vegetable oil instead of butter

- Use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the frosting

Make Ahead Tips

The cupcakes can be baked ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Frost the cupcakes just before serving for the best results.

Presentation Ideas

Top each cupcake with a slice of crystallized ginger for a decorative touch. Serve on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

These cupcakes pair well with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy treat. They also go well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow the cupcakes to come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each cupcake contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each cupcake contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each cupcake contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each cupcake contains approximately 3 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Gingerbread cupcakes with lemon cream cheese frosting are a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin C.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter, cream cheese) and eggs.

Summary

Gingerbread cupcakes with lemon cream cheese frosting are a delicious treat that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Gingerbread cupcakes with lemon cream cheese frosting are a delicious and festive dessert that is perfect for the holiday season. The warm spices of gingerbread combined with the tangy sweetness of lemon cream cheese frosting create a delightful treat that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy these cupcakes as a special treat or share them with loved ones at your next gathering.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Gingerbread Cupcakes with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting. It was a crisp autumn day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her cozy little kitchen. Martha was known for her delicious baked goods, and I always looked forward to the treats she would whip up during our visits.

As soon as I walked through the door, I was greeted by the warm, comforting aroma of spices and sugar. Martha was pulling a tray of cupcakes out of the oven, and I couldn't help but be drawn to the tantalizing scent wafting through the air.

"Would you like to try one of my latest creations?" Martha asked with a twinkle in her eye.

I eagerly nodded, and she handed me a beautifully frosted cupcake. The first bite was pure bliss - the rich, spicy flavor of the gingerbread paired perfectly with the tangy lemon cream cheese frosting. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make these cupcakes for myself.

Martha smiled as she saw the delight on my face. "I have a feeling you're going to love this recipe," she said.

And she was right. I spent the rest of the afternoon in Martha's kitchen, learning the ins and outs of making these delectable treats. She patiently walked me through each step, from mixing the batter to piping the frosting. By the time I left her house that day, I felt confident that I could recreate the cupcakes in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I have made these Gingerbread Cupcakes with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting countless times. They have become a staple at family gatherings, holiday parties, and bake sales. Each time I bake a batch, I am reminded of that fateful day in Martha's kitchen, and the joy of discovering a new favorite recipe.

The secret to these cupcakes lies in the perfect balance of flavors. The moist, spiced cake is made with a blend of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, giving it a warm and comforting taste. The lemon cream cheese frosting adds a bright and tangy contrast, elevating the cupcakes to a whole new level of deliciousness.

One of the things I love most about this recipe is its versatility. I have experimented with different variations over the years, adding nuts, dried fruit, or even a splash of rum to the batter. Each time, the cupcakes turn out beautifully, with a unique twist that keeps things exciting.

I have also passed this recipe down to my own children and grandchildren, who have embraced it with the same enthusiasm and love that I have. It warms my heart to see them baking these cupcakes in their own kitchens, creating memories and spreading joy with every bite.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about the day I first learned to make these Gingerbread Cupcakes with Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting, I am filled with gratitude for the wonderful friends and family who have shared their recipes and knowledge with me over the years. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with the people I love, and these cupcakes are a perfect example of how a simple recipe can bring so much happiness and warmth into our lives.

So if you ever find yourself in need of a sweet and comforting treat, I urge you to give these cupcakes a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe one day you'll be passing this recipe down to your own loved ones, creating new memories and traditions to cherish for years to come.