Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting Delight

by
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1 tablespoon ground ginger - 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon - ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg - ½ teaspoon ground cloves - ¼ teaspoon salt I like to start with the dry ingredients. They form the base of our gingerbread cupcakes. First, gather all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda. These help our cupcakes rise. Next, add spices: ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. They bring warmth and flavor. Finally, a pinch of salt balances the sweetness. Whisk these together in a bowl. Set this mix aside for later. - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature - ¾ cup brown sugar, packed tightly - 2 large eggs, at room temperature - ½ cup molasses - ½ cup milk, at room temperature - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Next, we move to the wet ingredients. Start with unsalted butter. Make sure it's soft, so it mixes well. Beat it with brown sugar until light and fluffy. This takes about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Now, pour in the molasses and vanilla extract. These add rich flavor and sweetness. Lastly, add the milk, which should also be at room temperature. This helps everything mix smoothly. - 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature - 4 cups powdered sugar - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract - 2-3 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency) For the frosting, use softened cream cheese and butter. Beat them until smooth. Then, add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until fluffy. If it feels too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time. This helps you get the right consistency for piping. A good frosting makes the cupcakes shine! 1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your muffin tin with cupcake liners. This helps with easy removal after baking. 2. In a medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients. Mix 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 tablespoon ground ginger, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, ½ teaspoon ground cloves, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Whisk these until they blend well. Set the bowl aside for later. 1. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream ½ cup softened unsalted butter and ¾ cup packed brown sugar. Beat on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes. The mix should be light and fluffy. 2. Add in 2 large eggs, one at a time. Mix until each egg is fully combined before adding the next. Then, pour in ½ cup molasses and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until you have a smooth blend. 1. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mixture. Alternate with ½ cup milk, starting and ending with the dry mix. Mix just until no flour streaks remain. Do not overmix. 2. Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter. This gives them space to rise. 3. Bake for 18-20 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into a cupcake. If it comes out clean, they are ready. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. 1. For the cream cheese frosting, beat 8 oz softened cream cheese and ½ cup softened unsalted butter in a large bowl. Use an electric mixer until the mix is smooth and creamy. 2. Gradually add in 4 cups powdered sugar and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Mix until fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. 1. Once the cupcakes are completely cool, it’s time to frost them. Use a piping bag with your favorite tip. Generously pipe the cream cheese frosting onto each cupcake. To make great gingerbread cupcakes, avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until you see no dry flour. Overmixing can make your cupcakes tough. To test for doneness, use a toothpick. Insert it into the center of a cupcake. If it comes out clean, your cupcakes are ready. If you see batter, bake a few more minutes. For the cream cheese frosting, you want a smooth consistency. Start with softened cream cheese and butter. Mix them together well before adding powdered sugar. If the frosting is too thick, add milk a little at a time. When piping the frosting, use a piping bag with a star tip. This gives a nice swirl. Start in the center and work your way out. It makes your cupcakes look fancy! Get creative with your toppings! You can add mini gingerbread cookies or a cinnamon stick on top. These small touches add charm. For a festive look, dust the cupcakes with ground cinnamon. Use a fine sieve to sprinkle it lightly. This adds a warm touch and enhances the flavor. Your guests will be impressed! {{image_4}} You can mix up the flavors in your gingerbread cupcakes. Adding chocolate chips gives a sweet touch. You can also add chopped nuts for crunch. Each bite becomes more exciting this way. Another option is to switch up the spices. Try using cardamom or allspice to create new taste profiles. Simply replace or add these spices to your mix. This change can make your cupcakes unique and fun! If you need gluten-free cupcakes, it's easy to adapt. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. This swap works well with the other ingredients. Your cupcakes will still taste great! For a vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. Use plant-based butter and milk for the recipe too. These changes keep the flavor while fitting a vegan diet. If you want to try a different frosting, consider buttercream. It’s simple and sweet. Just beat together softened butter with powdered sugar. You can add vanilla or cocoa powder for extra flavor. This frosting pairs perfectly with gingerbread cupcakes. You can also whip up a maple frosting. Combine powdered sugar with maple syrup and butter for a unique twist. This flavor can enhance the gingerbread taste, making it even more delightful! To keep your gingerbread cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container. This prevents them from drying out. Place parchment paper between layers if stacking. Keep the container in a cool, dry place. Your cupcakes will stay fresh for up to three days at room temperature. If you want to save some cupcakes for later, freezing is a great option. To freeze, first, let the cupcakes cool completely. Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh for up to three months. To thaw, just take them out and leave them at room temperature for a few hours. Leftover cream cheese frosting can be stored too. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep for about one week. If you want to use it later, you can freeze the frosting as well. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before using. You may need to mix it again to restore its creamy texture. Gingerbread cupcakes last about 3 to 5 days when stored correctly. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them. Just remember, the frosting may change in texture if chilled. Yes, you can make the batter ahead. Prepare it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, let the batter sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, fill your cupcake liners and bake as usual. If you want a different flavor, try using buttercream or whipped cream. You can also use mascarpone cheese for a creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut cream or a vegan cream cheese. Absolutely! For mini cupcakes, fill the liners about halfway. Bake them for about 12 to 15 minutes. Always check for doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, they're ready to enjoy! This blog post covered how to make delicious gingerbread cupcakes from start to finish. You learned about key ingredients, clear steps for making the batter, and tips for perfect results. We explored variations for flavor, dietary needs, and storage tips to keep your cupcakes fresh. Remember, baking is about creativity and fun. So, don’t hesitate to try new ideas. Enjoy sharing your tasty cupcakes with friends and family!

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Get ready to delight your taste buds with my Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting! These cupcakes are soft, spiced, and topped with a creamy, dreamy frosting that makes them irresistible. Whether you’re gearing up for the holidays or just craving something sweet, this recipe is perfect for everyone. Stick around as I guide you through simple steps to create these tasty treats that will impress your friends and family!

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Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

– 1 teaspoon baking powder

– 1 teaspoon baking soda

– 1 tablespoon ground ginger

– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

– ½ teaspoon ground cloves

– ¼ teaspoon salt

I like to start with the dry ingredients. They form the base of our gingerbread cupcakes. First, gather all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda. These help our cupcakes rise. Next, add spices: ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. They bring warmth and flavor. Finally, a pinch of salt balances the sweetness. Whisk these together in a bowl. Set this mix aside for later.

Wet Ingredients

– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

– ¾ cup brown sugar, packed tightly

– 2 large eggs, at room temperature

– ½ cup molasses

– ½ cup milk, at room temperature

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Next, we move to the wet ingredients. Start with unsalted butter. Make sure it’s soft, so it mixes well. Beat it with brown sugar until light and fluffy. This takes about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Now, pour in the molasses and vanilla extract. These add rich flavor and sweetness. Lastly, add the milk, which should also be at room temperature. This helps everything mix smoothly.

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients

– 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature

– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

– 4 cups powdered sugar

– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

– 2-3 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)

For the frosting, use softened cream cheese and butter. Beat them until smooth. Then, add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until fluffy. If it feels too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time. This helps you get the right consistency for piping. A good frosting makes the cupcakes shine!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping and Mixing Ingredients

1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your muffin tin with cupcake liners. This helps with easy removal after baking.

2. In a medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients. Mix 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 tablespoon ground ginger, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, ½ teaspoon ground cloves, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Whisk these until they blend well. Set the bowl aside for later.

Making the Batter

1. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream ½ cup softened unsalted butter and ¾ cup packed brown sugar. Beat on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes. The mix should be light and fluffy.

2. Add in 2 large eggs, one at a time. Mix until each egg is fully combined before adding the next. Then, pour in ½ cup molasses and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until you have a smooth blend.

Baking the Cupcakes

1. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mixture. Alternate with ½ cup milk, starting and ending with the dry mix. Mix just until no flour streaks remain. Do not overmix.

2. Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter. This gives them space to rise.

3. Bake for 18-20 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into a cupcake. If it comes out clean, they are ready. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frosting Preparation

1. For the cream cheese frosting, beat 8 oz softened cream cheese and ½ cup softened unsalted butter in a large bowl. Use an electric mixer until the mix is smooth and creamy.

2. Gradually add in 4 cups powdered sugar and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Mix until fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.

Frosting the Cupcakes

1. Once the cupcakes are completely cool, it’s time to frost them. Use a piping bag with your favorite tip. Generously pipe the cream cheese frosting onto each cupcake.

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring Perfect Cupcakes

To make great gingerbread cupcakes, avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until you see no dry flour. Overmixing can make your cupcakes tough.

To test for doneness, use a toothpick. Insert it into the center of a cupcake. If it comes out clean, your cupcakes are ready. If you see batter, bake a few more minutes.

Frosting Tips

For the cream cheese frosting, you want a smooth consistency. Start with softened cream cheese and butter. Mix them together well before adding powdered sugar. If the frosting is too thick, add milk a little at a time.

When piping the frosting, use a piping bag with a star tip. This gives a nice swirl. Start in the center and work your way out. It makes your cupcakes look fancy!

Presentation Enhancements

Get creative with your toppings! You can add mini gingerbread cookies or a cinnamon stick on top. These small touches add charm.

For a festive look, dust the cupcakes with ground cinnamon. Use a fine sieve to sprinkle it lightly. This adds a warm touch and enhances the flavor. Your guests will be impressed!

Variations

Flavor Modifications

You can mix up the flavors in your gingerbread cupcakes. Adding chocolate chips gives a sweet touch. You can also add chopped nuts for crunch. Each bite becomes more exciting this way.

Another option is to switch up the spices. Try using cardamom or allspice to create new taste profiles. Simply replace or add these spices to your mix. This change can make your cupcakes unique and fun!

Dietary Adjustments

If you need gluten-free cupcakes, it’s easy to adapt. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. This swap works well with the other ingredients. Your cupcakes will still taste great!

For a vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. Use plant-based butter and milk for the recipe too. These changes keep the flavor while fitting a vegan diet.

Frosting Alternatives

If you want to try a different frosting, consider buttercream. It’s simple and sweet. Just beat together softened butter with powdered sugar. You can add vanilla or cocoa powder for extra flavor. This frosting pairs perfectly with gingerbread cupcakes.

You can also whip up a maple frosting. Combine powdered sugar with maple syrup and butter for a unique twist. This flavor can enhance the gingerbread taste, making it even more delightful!

Storage Info

Storing Cupcakes

To keep your gingerbread cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container. This prevents them from drying out. Place parchment paper between layers if stacking. Keep the container in a cool, dry place. Your cupcakes will stay fresh for up to three days at room temperature.

Freezing Cupcakes

If you want to save some cupcakes for later, freezing is a great option. To freeze, first, let the cupcakes cool completely. Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh for up to three months. To thaw, just take them out and leave them at room temperature for a few hours.

Frosting Storage

Leftover cream cheese frosting can be stored too. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep for about one week. If you want to use it later, you can freeze the frosting as well. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before using. You may need to mix it again to restore its creamy texture.

FAQs

How long do gingerbread cupcakes last?

Gingerbread cupcakes last about 3 to 5 days when stored correctly. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them. Just remember, the frosting may change in texture if chilled.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the batter ahead. Prepare it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let the batter sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, fill your cupcake liners and bake as usual.

What can I use instead of cream cheese for frosting?

If you want a different flavor, try using buttercream or whipped cream. You can also use mascarpone cheese for a creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut cream or a vegan cream cheese.

Can I make mini gingerbread cupcakes?

Absolutely! For mini cupcakes, fill the liners about halfway. Bake them for about 12 to 15 minutes. Always check for doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, they’re ready to enjoy!

This blog post covered how to make delicious gingerbread cupcakes from start to finish. You learned about key ingredients, clear steps for making the batter, and tips for perfect results. We explored variations for flavor, dietary needs, and storage tips to keep your cupcakes fresh.

Remember, baking is about creativity and fun. So, don’t hesitate to try new ideas. Enjoy sharing your tasty cupcakes with friends and family!

- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1 tablespoon ground ginger - 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon - ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg - ½ teaspoon ground cloves - ¼ teaspoon salt I like to start with the dry ingredients. They form the base of our gingerbread cupcakes. First, gather all-purpose flour, baking powder, and baking soda. These help our cupcakes rise. Next, add spices: ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. They bring warmth and flavor. Finally, a pinch of salt balances the sweetness. Whisk these together in a bowl. Set this mix aside for later. - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature - ¾ cup brown sugar, packed tightly - 2 large eggs, at room temperature - ½ cup molasses - ½ cup milk, at room temperature - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Next, we move to the wet ingredients. Start with unsalted butter. Make sure it's soft, so it mixes well. Beat it with brown sugar until light and fluffy. This takes about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the eggs one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Now, pour in the molasses and vanilla extract. These add rich flavor and sweetness. Lastly, add the milk, which should also be at room temperature. This helps everything mix smoothly. - 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature - 4 cups powdered sugar - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract - 2-3 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency) For the frosting, use softened cream cheese and butter. Beat them until smooth. Then, add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until fluffy. If it feels too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time. This helps you get the right consistency for piping. A good frosting makes the cupcakes shine! 1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your muffin tin with cupcake liners. This helps with easy removal after baking. 2. In a medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients. Mix 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 tablespoon ground ginger, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, ½ teaspoon ground cloves, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Whisk these until they blend well. Set the bowl aside for later. 1. In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream ½ cup softened unsalted butter and ¾ cup packed brown sugar. Beat on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes. The mix should be light and fluffy. 2. Add in 2 large eggs, one at a time. Mix until each egg is fully combined before adding the next. Then, pour in ½ cup molasses and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until you have a smooth blend. 1. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet mixture. Alternate with ½ cup milk, starting and ending with the dry mix. Mix just until no flour streaks remain. Do not overmix. 2. Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter. This gives them space to rise. 3. Bake for 18-20 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into a cupcake. If it comes out clean, they are ready. Let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. 1. For the cream cheese frosting, beat 8 oz softened cream cheese and ½ cup softened unsalted butter in a large bowl. Use an electric mixer until the mix is smooth and creamy. 2. Gradually add in 4 cups powdered sugar and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract. Mix until fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. 1. Once the cupcakes are completely cool, it’s time to frost them. Use a piping bag with your favorite tip. Generously pipe the cream cheese frosting onto each cupcake. To make great gingerbread cupcakes, avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until you see no dry flour. Overmixing can make your cupcakes tough. To test for doneness, use a toothpick. Insert it into the center of a cupcake. If it comes out clean, your cupcakes are ready. If you see batter, bake a few more minutes. For the cream cheese frosting, you want a smooth consistency. Start with softened cream cheese and butter. Mix them together well before adding powdered sugar. If the frosting is too thick, add milk a little at a time. When piping the frosting, use a piping bag with a star tip. This gives a nice swirl. Start in the center and work your way out. It makes your cupcakes look fancy! Get creative with your toppings! You can add mini gingerbread cookies or a cinnamon stick on top. These small touches add charm. For a festive look, dust the cupcakes with ground cinnamon. Use a fine sieve to sprinkle it lightly. This adds a warm touch and enhances the flavor. Your guests will be impressed! {{image_4}} You can mix up the flavors in your gingerbread cupcakes. Adding chocolate chips gives a sweet touch. You can also add chopped nuts for crunch. Each bite becomes more exciting this way. Another option is to switch up the spices. Try using cardamom or allspice to create new taste profiles. Simply replace or add these spices to your mix. This change can make your cupcakes unique and fun! If you need gluten-free cupcakes, it's easy to adapt. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. This swap works well with the other ingredients. Your cupcakes will still taste great! For a vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. Use plant-based butter and milk for the recipe too. These changes keep the flavor while fitting a vegan diet. If you want to try a different frosting, consider buttercream. It’s simple and sweet. Just beat together softened butter with powdered sugar. You can add vanilla or cocoa powder for extra flavor. This frosting pairs perfectly with gingerbread cupcakes. You can also whip up a maple frosting. Combine powdered sugar with maple syrup and butter for a unique twist. This flavor can enhance the gingerbread taste, making it even more delightful! To keep your gingerbread cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container. This prevents them from drying out. Place parchment paper between layers if stacking. Keep the container in a cool, dry place. Your cupcakes will stay fresh for up to three days at room temperature. If you want to save some cupcakes for later, freezing is a great option. To freeze, first, let the cupcakes cool completely. Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh for up to three months. To thaw, just take them out and leave them at room temperature for a few hours. Leftover cream cheese frosting can be stored too. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep for about one week. If you want to use it later, you can freeze the frosting as well. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before using. You may need to mix it again to restore its creamy texture. Gingerbread cupcakes last about 3 to 5 days when stored correctly. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them. Just remember, the frosting may change in texture if chilled. Yes, you can make the batter ahead. Prepare it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, let the batter sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, fill your cupcake liners and bake as usual. If you want a different flavor, try using buttercream or whipped cream. You can also use mascarpone cheese for a creamy texture. For a dairy-free option, consider using coconut cream or a vegan cream cheese. Absolutely! For mini cupcakes, fill the liners about halfway. Bake them for about 12 to 15 minutes. Always check for doneness with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, they're ready to enjoy! This blog post covered how to make delicious gingerbread cupcakes from start to finish. You learned about key ingredients, clear steps for making the batter, and tips for perfect results. We explored variations for flavor, dietary needs, and storage tips to keep your cupcakes fresh. Remember, baking is about creativity and fun. So, don’t hesitate to try new ideas. Enjoy sharing your tasty cupcakes with friends and family!

Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in the holiday spirit with these Gingerbread Cupcakes topped with creamy frosting! Perfectly spiced and soft, these cupcakes are a festive treat that everyone will love. Learn how to make these delicious cupcakes from scratch, complete with a velvety cream cheese frosting. Don't miss out on impressing your guests—click through now to explore the full recipe and get baking today!
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Ingredients
  

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 tablespoon ground ginger

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ teaspoon ground cloves

¼ teaspoon salt

½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

¾ cup brown sugar, packed tightly

2 large eggs, at room temperature

½ cup molasses

½ cup milk, at room temperature

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature

½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

4 cups powdered sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2-3 tablespoons milk (adjust for desired consistency)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a standard muffin tin with cupcake liners to prepare for baking.

    In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt. Whisk together until evenly mixed, then set aside for later use.

      In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat together the softened butter and packed brown sugar on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy (approximately 2-3 minutes).

        Add the eggs to the mixture one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Pour in the molasses and vanilla extract, and mix until all the wet ingredients come together smoothly.

          Gradually incorporate the dry ingredient mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until no flour streaks remain—do not overmix.

            Evenly distribute the batter among the cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds of the way full to allow room for rising.

              Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a cupcake; it should come out clean. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                To prepare the cream cheese frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter in a large mixing bowl using an electric mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

                  Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is well combined and fluffy. If the frosting is too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is achieved.

                    Once the cupcakes are completely cool, use a piping bag fitted with your favorite tip to frost each cupcake generously with the cream cheese frosting.

                      Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Yield: 12 cupcakes

                        - Presentation Tips: For a visually appealing finish, dust the frosted cupcakes lightly with ground cinnamon. You can also enhance the festive look by topping each cupcake with a mini gingerbread cookie or a cinnamon stick, adding a delightful touch to delight your guests!

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