Use grated pumpkin or butternut squash for these gorgeous, spiced cupcakes
Prep:15 mins
Makes 12
175ml sunflower oil175g light muscovado sugar3 large eggs1 tsp vanilla extract200g coarsely grated pumpkin or butternut squash flesh100g sultanasgrated zest 1 orange2 tsp ground cinnamon200g self-raising flour1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
STEP 1Heat oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Line a 12-hole muffin tray with paper cases. Pour the oil into a large bowl and add the sugar, eggs and vanilla. Beat together, then add the grated pumpkin, sultanas and orange zest.STEP 2Stir in the cinnamon, flour and bicarbonate of soda, the mixture will be quite wet. Spoon into the cases. Bake for 25 mins until firm and springy to the touch and a skewer inserted in the centre of a cupcake comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack. At this stage you can freeze the cakes for 4 months.STEP 3To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese and sugar together until smooth then spread on top of the cupcakes. Leave plain or decorate with toasted pecans. Store in the fridge, but return to room temperature to serve for the best flavour and texture.
