Pumpkin Spice Buttercream Frosting

Pumpkin Spice Buttercream Frosting is the ultimate fall treat, bringing cozy, warm flavors to your favorite cakes, cupcakes, and cookies.

This creamy and rich frosting has a delightful hint of pumpkin pie spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, making it perfect for holiday baking or any time you crave a touch of autumn in your desserts.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Spatula

Ingredients Overview

• Butter: Unsalted butter forms the creamy base for the frosting.
• Powdered Sugar: Provides sweetness and a smooth texture.
• Pumpkin Puree: Adds a subtle pumpkin flavor and a beautiful orange hue.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves for that classic fall taste.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor.
• Heavy Cream or Milk: Adjusts the consistency for spreading or piping.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 3½ cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 tbsp pumpkin puree
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2-3 tbsp heavy cream or milk (as needed)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cream the Butter

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with a stand mixer or hand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

2. Add the Pumpkin Puree

2. Mix in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract until well combined.

3. Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

3. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, mixing on low speed until combined.

4. Add the Pumpkin Spice

4. Sprinkle in the pumpkin pie spice and mix thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.

5. Adjust the Consistency

5. Add the heavy cream or milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency for spreading or piping. Beat on high speed for 1-2 minutes to make it extra fluffy.

Recipe Tips

• Softening Butter: Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for a smoother texture.
• Pumpkin Puree: Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices.
• Spice Adjustment: Add extra pumpkin pie spice for a bolder flavor or reduce it for a milder taste.

What to Serve With This Recipe

This frosting pairs wonderfully with:

• Pumpkin Cake or Cupcakes
• Vanilla or Spice Cake
• Sugar Cookies or Snickerdoodles
• Cinnamon Rolls

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this frosting ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and let it soften at room temperature before using.

Can I freeze leftover frosting?
Absolutely! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and re-whip before using.

Can I pipe this frosting?
Yes, this buttercream is sturdy enough for piping swirls and decorations on cakes or cupcakes.

Serving Suggestions

Spread or pipe this Pumpkin Spice Buttercream Frosting onto your favorite fall desserts, and sprinkle with a touch of cinnamon or a few decorative sugar sprinkles for an extra festive touch. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of autumn in every bite!