With hundreds of rave reviews, these chocolate pumpkin cupcakes have earned their spot as the most popular autumn baked goods recipes on the blog! Don’t let the simple name fool you, these cupcakes are packed with deep chocolate pumpkin flavor, a texture that stays moist for days, an abundance of warming spices, and a rich chocolate frosting that creates the perfect fall desserts chocolate experience.
Another reason they’re a reader favorite – they can be made into a variety of presentations. I give you options for standard cupcakes, mini cupcakes, or even a layered cake. And my favorite tip from a reader – these make the perfect halloween cupcakes recipes for parties because the orange and chocolate color combination is naturally festive!
Sarah commented: “Absolutely love this recipe – it’s amazing & I love how the chocolate and pumpkin complement each other perfectly! 🧡 This opens up a whole new way of enjoying fall flavors.” ★★★★★
This recipe all started with my obsession for the best pumpkin cupcakes that could satisfy both chocolate and pumpkin lovers. I created this for In Bloom Bakery when I started developing halloween flavored cupcakes years ago because I wanted a clever way to combine two beloved fall flavors. Turns out, these cupcakes have become absolutely legendary! So much so, that they’ve been copied and shared countless times – but rest assured, this is the original pumpkin chocolate desserts recipe! I suppose imitation is the best form of flattery…
I’ve lost track of how many times I have made these chocolate pumpkin cupcakes. So many times I have to alternate with other fall treats and make regular chocolate cupcakes, which ironically pale in comparison to this chocolate pumpkin combination.😂 And it’s not just during Halloween season. Even in the middle of winter, I discover leftover pumpkin puree in my pantry and my family is right there asking, “are you making those incredible chocolate pumpkin cupcakes?!”
Cuisine: American
Category: Dessert
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 18-22 minutes
Total Time: 42 minutes
Serves: Makes 18 cupcakes
Over the years, I have perfected every element of this recipe. However, I have tested different ways to make these pumpkin chocolate chip cupcakes easy and various frosting options so everyone (not just chocolate lovers!) can enjoy these cupcakes. While they require a few steps, I provide step-by-step photos so you can see just how achievable bakery-quality results are at home!
⭐ These chocolate pumpkin cupcakes have become such a staple that I was beyond excited when I figured out how to make them into pumpkin filled cupcakes too! So I adapted this recipe to include a surprise pumpkin cream filling that takes them to the next level.
Easy Step-By-Step Process
The magic of these autumn baked goods recipes lies in the perfect balance of rich chocolate and warming pumpkin spices. First, you create the most tender, moist chocolate cupcake base enhanced with pumpkin puree. Then comes the incredible chocolate pumpkin frosting that combines cocoa with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg.
INGREDIENTS
For the Chocolate Pumpkin Cupcakes:
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 1½ teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup pure pumpkin puree
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
For the Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For Pumpkin Filled Cupcakes Option:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ¼ cup pumpkin puree
- ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
PREPARATION
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line 18 muffin cups with paper liners. This temperature is perfect for these halloween cupcakes recipes to bake evenly without drying out.
- Mix dry ingredients by whisking together flour, cocoa powder, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves in a large bowl until well combined.
- Combine wet ingredients in another large bowl by whisking together pumpkin puree, oil, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
- Create the batter by gradually adding the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix – this keeps your chocolate pumpkin cupcakes incredibly tender.
- Fold in chocolate chips gently, distributing them evenly throughout the batter. This creates those delightful pockets of chocolate in every bite.
- Fill cupcake liners about ⅔ full with batter, using a large cookie scoop or spoon for even distribution. This ensures all your fall desserts chocolate treats bake uniformly.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. The tops should spring back lightly when touched.
- Cool completely on wire racks before frosting. This step is crucial for the perfect pumpkin chocolate desserts presentation.
- Make frosting by beating cream cheese and butter until fluffy, then gradually adding powdered sugar, cocoa powder, cream, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and pipeable.
- Frost and serve these incredible the best pumpkin cupcakes using a piping bag or offset spatula. Garnish with extra mini chocolate chips or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Recipe Success Tips
The secret to incredible chocolate pumpkin cupcakes lies in not overmixing the batter and using room temperature ingredients. The pumpkin puree adds amazing moisture while the chocolate creates that rich, decadent base that makes these autumn baked goods recipes so special.
Don’t skip the spices! The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves creates that signature fall flavor that makes these halloween flavored cupcakes absolutely irresistible.
For the best fall desserts chocolate results, make sure your oven temperature is accurate. These cupcakes can go from perfect to overbaked quickly, and you want that tender, moist texture.
NUTRITION INFORMATION
- 285 calories per cupcake
- 4g protein per cupcake
- 42g carbs per cupcake
- 12g fat per cupcake
- 3g fiber per cupcake
These chocolate pumpkin cupcakes provide comfort food satisfaction while incorporating the nutritional benefits of pumpkin puree. They’re the perfect halloween cupcakes recipes for when you want to indulge without going completely overboard.
Creative Variations
Mini cupcakes: Use mini muffin tins and bake for 12-15 minutes. Perfect for halloween flavored cupcakes at parties where people want smaller portions.
Pumpkin filled version: Create a small well in each cooled cupcake and fill with the pumpkin cream mixture before frosting for amazing pumpkin filled cupcakes.
Layered cake: Use this batter in two 9-inch round pans and bake for 25-30 minutes for a stunning chocolate pumpkin layer cake.
Chocolate chip variation: Add ½ cup white chocolate chips along with the mini chocolate chips for pumpkin chocolate chip cupcakes easy appeal.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These the best pumpkin cupcakes actually improve after the first day as the flavors meld together beautifully. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Freezing tips: Unfrosted cupcakes freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Wrap individually and freeze, then thaw and frost when ready to serve.
Make-ahead strategy: You can bake the cupcakes up to 2 days ahead and store covered. Make the frosting the day you plan to serve for the best texture and appearance.
Perfect for Halloween Celebrations
These halloween cupcakes recipes are absolutely perfect for parties because the natural orange and brown color scheme is ideal for autumn celebrations. The chocolate pumpkin combination appeals to all ages, making them crowd-pleasers at any gathering.
For autumn baked goods recipes presentations, arrange them on tiered stands with other fall treats. The rich chocolate color provides beautiful contrast against orange decorations and fall foliage.
The pumpkin chocolate desserts format makes them easy to serve at parties – no plates or forks needed, just grab and enjoy!
Frosting Variations
While the chocolate cream cheese frosting is incredible, these fall desserts chocolate cupcakes work beautifully with other toppings too:
Cinnamon buttercream: Skip the cocoa and add extra cinnamon for a lighter option
Maple cream cheese: Replace vanilla with maple extract for autumn flavor
Orange cream cheese: Add orange zest and a drop of orange extract for halloween flavored cupcakes appeal
Ganache topping: Pour warm chocolate ganache over cooled cupcakes for ultra-decadent chocolate pumpkin treats
Why These Work Every Time
After perfecting these chocolate pumpkin cupcakes over years of testing, I can confidently say they deliver consistent, amazing results. The combination of pumpkin puree and buttermilk creates incredible moisture, while the chocolate and spices provide complex, satisfying flavors.
The pumpkin chocolate chip cupcakes easy method means even beginner bakers get professional results. The forgiving batter and straightforward technique make these accessible for anyone wanting to try autumn baked goods recipes.
Seasonal Ingredient Tips
Pumpkin puree: Use pure pumpkin, not pie filling! Depending on the brand (I prefer Libby’s), canned pumpkin can have different names, but make sure it’s just pumpkin.
Spices: Fresh spices make a noticeable difference in the best pumpkin cupcakes. If your spices are over a year old, consider replacing them for maximum flavor impact.
Chocolate chips: Mini chips distribute better than regular-sized ones, creating more even chocolate pumpkin flavor in each bite.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I make these as a layer cake instead?
Absolutely! Divide the batter between two greased 9-inch round pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. This creates a stunning chocolate pumpkin layer cake that’s perfect for special occasions and feeds more people than individual cupcakes.
How do I make the pumpkin filling for pumpkin filled cupcakes?
Beat together 4 oz softened cream cheese, ¼ cup powdered sugar, ¼ cup pumpkin puree, and ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice until smooth. Use a small spoon or piping bag to fill centers of cooled cupcakes before frosting.
Can I make these ahead for a party?
Yes! These halloween cupcakes recipes are perfect for advance preparation. Bake the cupcakes up to 2 days ahead and store covered. Frost the day of your event for the best appearance and freshness.
Why do my cupcakes sink in the middle?
This usually happens from overmixing the batter or opening the oven door too early. Mix just until ingredients are combined, and don’t check the autumn baked goods recipes until the minimum baking time has passed.
Can I substitute the buttermilk?
You can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This creates the acidity needed for tender fall desserts chocolate texture.
Perfect for Any Fall Occasion
Whether you’re making halloween cupcakes recipes for trick-or-treaters or elegant autumn baked goods recipes for Thanksgiving dessert, these chocolate pumpkin cupcakes fit perfectly into any fall celebration. The sophisticated flavor combination appeals to adults while the fun format delights children.
The pumpkin chocolate desserts category has never been more popular, and these cupcakes show exactly why. They bridge the gap between indulgent chocolate treats and seasonal pumpkin flavors in the most delicious way possible.
The Ultimate Fall Cupcake Experience
These chocolate pumpkin cupcakes have brought me so much joy over the years – and it’s all because of readers like you who make these recipes come alive in your own kitchens! Every time someone tells me they’ve made these the best pumpkin cupcakes, my heart fills with autumn happiness.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting your fall baking journey, this recipe delivers results that taste like they came from a professional bakery. The combination of rich chocolate and warming pumpkin spices creates something truly special that captures the essence of autumn in every single bite.
I hope these chocolate pumpkin cupcakes become a treasured recipe in your collection, bringing warmth and joy to your kitchen just as they have to mine! There’s something magical about pumpkin chocolate desserts that fill your home with incredible aromas and create memories with family and friends.
Share Your Halloween Cupcakes Recipes Success!
I absolutely love seeing how these chocolate pumpkin cupcakes turn out in your kitchen! Share your photos on my Facebook page – I love seeing your beautiful decorating ideas and any creative variations you try.
Comment + star encourages others to try these autumn baked goods recipes, and the support helps me continue to provide FREE recipes. Thank you! Let me know in the comments how your fall desserts chocolate adventure turned out!
Tag me @OlyviaBestRecipes on Pinterest when you make these halloween flavored cupcakes! Your feedback and photos help other bakers discover amazing pumpkin chocolate desserts that make fall baking both fun and delicious!
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Author: Olyvia T.
