Spiced Butternut Squash Cupcakes
Medically reviewed by Christiana George Updated Date: June 9, 2023
O.M.G. I’ve been dying to share these cupcakes. I think these are the best tasting cupcakes ever. The flavor combinations are superb. I was playing around with some butter rum flavoring that my neighbor gave me and some fresh butternut squash puree I made, resulting in these fabulous, spiced Butternut Squash Cupcakes with butter rum flavor. I think I just found my new flavor to use in just about everything. I was always a vanilla girl, but now I think I am switching over to butter rum. It’s has a slightly sinful taste to it. I love it!
I used butternut squash a lot last year in my Maple Butternut Squash Bread, Biscoff Butternut Squash Oatmeal Cookies, Maple Butternut Squash Donuts, and No Bake Butternut Squash Cheesecakes. But I never got around to making cupcakes. This year I remedied that.
My neighbor gave me this bottle of butter rum flavoring and I thought it would be a good pairing with butternut squash. If you need help on how to make butternut squash puree just click here. It’s really easy.
Let me tell you, the smell of the butter rum baking is to die for. It just scented up the whole kitchen. I couldn’t wait to take these out of the oven. But then, tragedy happened. My nice domed cupcakes became flat tops. I was so dissappointed. I though all was ruined and the cupcakes would be dense, brick-like failures. Boy was I wrong. These were the lightest, fluffiest, moistest, and most flavorful cupcakes I had ever tasted. I wanted to devour every single one, but I held back. They weren’t even frosted yet.
Picking a frosting is always a tricky matter. You want it to be good, but not overpower the cupcake. It needs to accentuate the flavors in the cupcake. And these cupcakes were amazing on their own, so I didn’t want to mess that up. I choose to top them with my favorite Cinnamon Mascarpone Frosting. It’s the same one I used on my Churro Cupcakes, Churro Puff Pastry, Cinnamon Chocolate Cake, No Bake Butternut Squash Cheesecakes, Maple Carrot Cupcakes and even in my Pumpkin Spice Crepes. It adds just a dollop of flavor that throws your taste-buds over the edge. I can eat it by the bucket full.
I just added a little bit of frosting to each cupcake. I used an Ateco 827 frosting tip and some festive fall sprinkles for some color.
Just look at that beautiful inside, the perfect texture for a cupcake. I was intending to only use pecans in my mix, but I found out last minute that I didn’t have enough, so I subbed walnuts in for about half the amount needed. Now I don’t know which I prefer, walnuts or pecans. Both went well with the flavors. So you can choose either when making your cupcakes or you can go halfsies like me.
I still can’t believe how incredible these cupcakes came out. There a little bit of spice, a little bit of sweet, a little bit of rum, and a whole lotta deliciousness in each one. Trust me, you are going to want to make these.
Spiced Butternut Squash Cupcakes
by The Sweet Chick
Prep Time: 15- 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Keywords: bake dessert snack butternut squash pecans walnuts butter rum Thanksgiving cupcake cake American fall
Ingredients (30 cupcakes)
For the cupcakes
- 3/4 cups butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/4 cups light brown sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1/4 teaspoon LorAnn oils, butter rum flavor
- 2 cups butternut squash puree
- 2 1/3 cups all purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk (or buttermilk replacement, see below)
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (or 1/2 of each)
For the frosting
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz. mascarpone cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
For the cupcakes
Preheat oven to 350° F.
In a stand mixer, cream together the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
Then add the eggs, squash, and butter rum. Mix until well blended.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, spices, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Add a third of the flour mixture at a time to the squash mixture, alternately with the buttermilk, mixing well in between and scraping down the sides of the bowl.
Lastly, add the nuts and mix until fully incorporated.
Pour mixture into greased or lined muffin tins, about 3/4 full for each well.
Place muffin tins in oven and bake on 350ºF for 20-25 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Then take out of oven and place on cooling rack.
For the frosting
With stand mixer on medium speed (with whisk attachment), whisk heavy cream until stiff peaks form (be careful not to over beat, or cream will be grainy).
In a small bowl, stir together mascarpone, cinnamon, and confectioners’ sugar until smooth.
Gently fold whipped cream into mascarpone mixture until completely incorporated.
Using a spatula, or a cake decorating bag with your favorite tip (I used Ateco #827), frost each cupcake.
Serve immediately or keep refrigerated until ready to eat. Enjoy!
Notes
As a substitute for buttermilk, I used 1 tablespoon vinegar (white or rice) plus enough milk to equal 1 cup.
Cupcake recipe adapted from Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes from Taste of Home
Frosting recipe adapted from Martha Stewart.
Related Posts
Subscribe for New Racipies
Get mental health tips, updates, and resources delivered to your inbox.
Are Blackberries Acidic? Benefits and Risks
Blackberries are a delicious and nutrient-packed fruit enjoyed by people worldwide. However, for those prone to acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a common question arises:“Are blackberries acidic? Blackberries for acid reflux—are they safe or harmful?”
In this article, we will explore the acidity of blackberries, their impact on acid reflux, and how you can incorporate them into your diet without triggering symptoms. With their unique flavor and rich nutritional profile, blackberries deserve a closer look.
Are Blackberries Acidic? Understanding Their pH Levels
Blackberries are slightly acidic, with a pH ranging from 3.2 to 3.6. The acidity depends on factors such as ripeness and growing conditions. Here’s an overview of blackberry acidity:
| Food Item | pH Level | Acidity |
| Fresh Blackberries | 3.2–3.8 | Acidic |
| Blackberry Juice | 3.3–3.7 | Acidic |
| Blackberry Jam | 3.1–3.5 | Highly Acidic |
Although their pH places blackberries in the acidic category, they are packed with nutrients that contribute to overall health. Understanding how they affect acid reflux is essential for making informed dietary choices.
Related to Read: Are Blueberries Acidic?
Nutritional Benefits of Blackberries: A Superfood for Your Health
Blackberries are a powerhouse of essential nutrients, antioxidants, and fiber. Here’s what makes them stand out:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Blackberries contain anthocyanins and flavonoids, which protect against oxidative stress and inflammation.
- High in Fiber: Their fiber content supports digestive health and prevents constipation.
- Vitamin C and Vitamin K: These vitamins boost immune health and support blood clotting.
- Low in Calories: Blackberries are a guilt-free snack for those watching their calorie intake.
- Good Source of Manganese: This mineral is crucial for bone health and metabolism.
Including blackberries in your diet can support overall well-being while providing a tasty addition to meals and snacks.
Are Blackberries Safe for Acid Reflux? Examining Their Effects
For individuals with acid reflux, consuming acidic foods like blackberries can sometimes be a concern. However, their effects vary depending on individual tolerance levels.
1. Potential to Irritate the Esophagus
The natural acidity of blackberries might irritate the esophageal lining in sensitive individuals, especially if eaten in large quantities.
2. Fiber’s Role in Digestion
The high fiber content in blackberries can aid digestion and reduce pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), preventing acid reflux in some cases.
3. Antioxidants and Anti-inflammatory Properties
The antioxidants in blackberries may help soothe inflammation in the esophagus caused by acid reflux, potentially mitigating symptoms.
Author Tip: 7 Kinds of Foods to Avoid with GERD
How to Safely Enjoy Blackberries with Acid Reflux?
If you’re concerned about how blackberries may affect your acid reflux, here are some tips to minimize discomfort:
1. Consume in Moderation
Start with small portions to see how your body reacts. Avoid overeating to prevent triggering reflux symptoms.
2. Pair with Low-Acid Foods
Combine blackberries with alkaline foods like yogurt, oatmeal, or bananas to neutralize their acidity.
3. Choose Ripe Blackberries
Ripe blackberries are less acidic and gentler on the stomach compared to unripe ones.
4. Avoid Blackberry Juice
Blackberry juice is more acidic than fresh berries and may worsen acid reflux symptoms.
5. Incorporate Cooked Blackberries
Cooking blackberries slightly reduces their acidity, making them easier to tolerate.
Author Tip: 7-Day Meal Plan For Gastritis
Health Benefits of Blackberries Beyond Acid Reflux
In addition to their potential impact on acid reflux, blackberries offer numerous health benefits:
1. Improves Heart Health
The antioxidants and potassium in blackberries support cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure and protecting against heart disease.
2. Boosts Brain Function
Blackberries contain compounds that may improve memory and cognitive function, making them a brain-friendly food.
3. Supports Weight Management
Their low calorie and high fiber content make blackberries an excellent choice for weight loss or maintenance.
4. Enhances Skin Health
The vitamin C in blackberries promotes collagen production, which is essential for healthy and glowing skin.
5. Strengthens Bones
Vitamin K and manganese in blackberries contribute to bone density and strength.
FAQs
Are blackberries suitable for everyone with acid reflux?
Not everyone with acid reflux will react to blackberries. Individual tolerance levels vary, so it’s essential to monitor your body’s response.
Can I eat blackberry jam if I have acid reflux?
Blackberry jam often contains added sugars and preservatives, which can worsen reflux symptoms. Opt for fresh or homemade options with minimal additives.
Are frozen blackberries less acidic than fresh ones?
Freezing does not significantly alter the acidity of blackberries. However, texture and flavor may change slightly.
How many blackberries can I safely eat in a day?
Start with a small portion, such as half a cup, and gradually increase if no reflux symptoms occur.
Can blackberries improve digestion?
Yes, the fiber content in blackberries promotes regular bowel movements and supports gut health, which can indirectly benefit those with acid reflux.
Conclusion: Are Blackberries Safe for Acid Reflux?
Blackberries are slightly acidic but come with a plethora of health benefits, including improved digestion, heart health, and enhanced immunity.
For individuals with acid reflux, moderation and mindful pairing with low-acid foods are key to enjoying blackberries without discomfort.
By incorporating these vibrant berries into your diet in a reflux-friendly manner, you can reap their nutritional rewards while keeping acid reflux at bay.
Related Posts
Subscribe for New Racipies
Get mental health tips, updates, and resources delivered to your inbox.