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Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes

These delightful Pumpkin Pie Cupcakes blend the nostalgic flavors of homemade pumpkin pie with the fun of cupcakes, featuring a crunchy Nilla Wafer crust and creamy whipped frosting.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 12 cupcakes
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Seasonal
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the crust
  • 30 pieces Nilla Wafers These sweet, crispy cookies form the base of the cupcakes.
  • 3 tablespoons Granulated Sugar Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.
  • 3 tablespoons Butter (Melted) Provides richness and helps bind the crust together.
For the cupcakes
  • 1 box Pillsbury Perfectly Pumpkin Cake Mix The star of this recipe, offering guaranteed delicious pumpkin flavor.
  • 6 drops Orange Wilton Color Right Food Coloring Give the cupcakes a vibrant autumn hue.
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Adds aromatic warmth.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice Enhances the pumpkin flavor profile.
  • 1 batch The Best Whipped Cream Frosting A light and fluffy topping for the cupcakes.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Crush the Nilla Wafers by placing them in a large plastic bag and using a rolling pin to achieve a coarse texture.
  2. Melt the butter in the microwave, then pour it into the bag with crushed Nilla Wafers and add granulated sugar. Mix thoroughly.
  3. Form the crust by taking a heaping tablespoon of the Nilla Wafer mixture and placing it into each cupcake liner. Press down firmly.
  4. Mix the cake batter according to the instructions on the cake mix box, adding cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and food coloring. Mix well.
Baking
  1. Fill each cupcake liner with the cake mixture until about 3/4 full.
  2. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Finishing Touch
  1. Once cooled, top the cupcakes with The Best Whipped Cream Frosting.

Notes

For deeper flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg. Adjust food coloring for more pronounced color. Allow cupcakes to cool before frosting to avoid melting.