The Delectable Holiday Dessert Ina Garten Makes Instead Of Pumpkin Pie

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On the list of unknown facts about Ina Garten, that the Barefoot Contessa doesn't especially adore a certain pie is an especially surprising one. While autumn desserts are Garten's favorite, she's not the biggest fan of pumpkin pie, which is revered by so many Americans. On her Substack feed, Garten explained how she felt "meh" about pumpkin pie, and shared her favorite substitute for when a festive fall sweet treat is needed.

"[T]he truth is I've never really loved pumpkin pie," Garten confessed. "So instead, I like to make Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Maple Frosting. Pumpkin is a great base for cupcakes because it keeps the cake moist. They still have classic pumpkin pie spices, like cinnamon and ginger, but instead of sharing a pie, everyone gets their own individual cake."

Having glanced at Garten's recipe for pumpkin spice cupcakes, we can definitely see the appeal. They get depth of flavor from pumpkin purée (not to be confused with pumpkin pie filling) and many of the same seasonings that make up pumpkin spice blend. To really turn up the spice in the cakes, we love to substitute a Vietnamese cinnamon powder, which has a more intense flavor than other varieties. The frosting has a cream cheese base, with a sweet kiss of maple syrup and vanilla extract.

To make pumpkin spice cupcakes that would measure up to the Barefoot Contessa's, make sure you reach for plain canned pumpkin, and not pie filling. Pie filling, as the name suggests, is ready to be put in a dessert with spices and sweetener already added. Be careful not to overwork your cupcake batter! You just want the wet and dry ingredients barely combined, as mixing too much will produce a tough crumb. Pumpkin adds succulent moistness to the cake, as Ina Garten mentioned, and you definitely don't want to miss out.

Some variations that can add serious character to your cupcakes include browning your butter before incorporating it for a pleasant nuttiness that enhances the warmth of the spices, or using dark brown sugar instead of light brown for an added kick of earthy molasses. For the look and taste of the season, adorn your frosted cupcakes with caramel drizzle, candied nuts, and/or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. 

Although Garten loves serving all her guests an individual cupcake, a cupcake recipe can be easily adapted into a sheet or layer cake, or even a jelly roll. A layer cake can make for a more impressive presentation on your holiday table, and gives you extra real estate for decorating. Of course, you'll want to adapt your baking instructions accordingly.