Yummy Pumpkin Cupcakes That Look Like Pumpkins

Just popping in while the turkey is in the oven to say "Happy Thanksgiving" and to share a yummy dessert recipe.  I used to make a pumpkin roll with cream cheese filling every Thanksgiving, but last year my sister-in-law introduced me to these adorable cupcakes.  

They taste virtually the same and are way easier to make - and then there is the cuteness factor!  

Here's the recipe.  It's from Taste of Home magazine.  

Cupcakes:

2 cups sugar

3/4 cup canola oil

1 can (15 oz.) solid pack pumpkin

4 eggs

2 cups all purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon cinnamon

Filling:

1 tablespoon cornstarch

1 cup milk

1/2 cup shortening

1/4 cup butter softened

2 cups confectioners sugar

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Whole cloves for stems

Directions:  In a large bowl, beat the sugar, oil, pumpkin and eggs until well blended.  Combine the flour, baking soda, salt, baking powder and cinnamon;  gradually beat into pumpkin mixture until well blended.  

Fill paper lined muffin cups two thirds full.  Bake at 350 degrees for 18 - 22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.  Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks to cool completely.

For filling, combine cornstarch and milk in a small saucepan until smooth.  Bring to a boil, stirring constantly.  Remove from the heat and cool to room temperature. 

In a large bowl, cream the shortening, butter and confectioners sugar until light and fluffy.  Beat in vanilla extract.  Gradually add the cornstarch mixture and beat until smooth.

Use a sharp knife and cut a 1 inch circle 1 inch deep in the top of each cupcake.  Carefully remove the tops and set aside.  Spoon or pipe filling into cupcakes.  Replace tops.  Add a whole clove for a pumpkin stem into the top of each cupcake.  

Yield:  1 1/2 dozen.

Here's my dessert and coffee bar all set up.  Just waiting for the apple pie and it will be complete!  

Wishing you all a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving today!  

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