Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes

     I discovered this recipe last fall, and it is perfect for getting you into the autumn/holiday spirit!

Ingredients for cupcakes:

• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 cup white sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 3/4 cup canned pumpkin puree

Ingredients for frosting:

• 4 oz of room temperature cream cheese
• 2 tablespoons of room temperature unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

     Preheat the oven to 350 degrees, and begin by combining all the dried ingredients; flour, baking soda, salt, and spices.

     In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar. Add one egg at a time and mix until fluffy. Then add the vanilla extract.

     Alternately add the flour mixture and pumpkin puree in three additions.

     Place the muffin cups in a muffin tin, which I didn't have, and evenly fill with the batter. Place in the oven and bake for 18- 20 minutes.

     Once the cupcakes have cooled, make the frosting. Place the frosting in a Ziploc bag, and cut a hole in one corner, and frost the cupcakes.