Name: Gingerbread Man Christmas Cupcakes with Pomegranate & Rosemary
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Holiday / Christmas
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp ground ginger; ¼ tsp ground cloves; ¼ tsp salt; ½ cup unsalted butter (softened); ¾ cup packed brown sugar; 2 large eggs; ¼ cup molasses; ½ cup whole milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 8 oz cream cheese (softened); ½ cup unsalted butter (softened); 3 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tbsp heavy cream; 12 gingerbread man cookies; ½ cup pomegranate seeds; Fresh rosemary sprigs; Edible glitter (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Holiday charm: These cupcakes combine classic holiday flavors with beautiful decorations that scream Christmas cheer.
Perfect for gatherings: Whether for a party or a cozy family night, these cupcakes are sure to impress.
Balanced flavors: The warm spices of the gingerbread pair beautifully with the creamy tanginess of the frosting.
Customizable: Use store-bought cookies for convenience or make your gingerbread men from scratch.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Gingerbread Cupcakes:

all-purpose flour
baking powder
baking soda
ground cinnamon
ground ginger
ground cloves
salt
unsalted butter (softened)
brown sugar (packed)
large eggs
molasses
whole milk
vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

cream cheese (softened)
unsalted butter (softened)
powdered sugar
vanilla extract
heavy cream

For the Decorations:

gingerbread man cookies
pomegranate seeds
fresh rosemary sprigs
edible glitter (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
Cream butter and sugar: Beat butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Incorporate eggs: Add eggs one at a time, beating until combined.
Add liquids: Mix in molasses, milk, and vanilla extract.
Combine mixtures: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Bake: Divide batter evenly into cupcake liners and bake for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
Prepare frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until fluffy. Stir in vanilla and cream, adjusting consistency as needed.
Frost and decorate: Pipe or spread frosting onto cooled cupcakes. Add a gingerbread man cookie, pomegranate seeds, rosemary sprigs, and a dusting of edible glitter, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 cupcakes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Different cookies: Swap gingerbread men for sugar cookies or peppermint candy toppers.
Flavor twist: Add a touch of orange zest to the frosting for a citrusy note.
Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make the cupcakes suitable for all dietary needs.
Nutty addition: Sprinkle finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Bring cupcakes to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cupcakes a day in advance. Store them unfrosted and frost them before serving.

2. What can I use instead of molasses?

You can substitute dark corn syrup or honey, though the flavor profile may slightly differ.

3. Can I freeze these cupcakes?

Yes, freeze unfrosted cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.

4. How do I prevent the frosting from melting?

Ensure the cupcakes are completely cooled before frosting and keep them in a cool place.

5. Can I use store-bought frosting?

Absolutely, though homemade cream cheese frosting offers the best flavor.

6. How do I make mini cupcakes?

Use a mini cupcake tin and bake for about 10–12 minutes.

7. Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?

Yes, mini chocolate chips would make a delightful addition.

8. What can I use instead of pomegranate seeds?

Dried cranberries or red sprinkles can mimic the festive look.

9. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients. You may need to bake in batches.

10. How do I make the frosting stiffer for piping?

Add more powdered sugar, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.

Conclusion

These Gingerbread Man Christmas Cupcakes with Pomegranate and Rosemary are a delightful blend of festive flavors and charming decorations. Perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting, they’re a showstopper that everyone will enjoy. Try this recipe to bring a sweet touch of holiday magic to your celebrations!