I’m just going to say it… I LOVE PUMPKIN RECIPES!!!  Especially in the fall.  One of my very favorite easy pumpkin recipes is this super quick recipe for “Pumpkin Gems” that starts with a cake mix and a can of pumpkin!  These little cupcakes are so moist and delicious and you will absolutely love the smell of your house while they are baking.  Frosting is optional but recommended!  Just swab the top with your favorite cream cheese frosting and voila!  Fall perfection!

If you don’t have a favorite cream cheese frosting recipe, you can simply cream together an 8oz package of cream cheese with 1/2 cup softened butter and 1 tsp vanilla or maple extract, then slowly add in 3 1/2-4 cups of powdered sugar, (until it is the consistency you like!)  It’s that easy!

Here is the recipe for the cakes:

Ingredients:

• 1 yellow cake mix
• 3 eggs
• 1/2 cup oil
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 2 tsp cinnamon
• 15oz can of 100% pumpkin (NOT pumpkin pie filling)
• Optional:  Your favorite cream cheese frosting

Instructions: 

1. Preheat oven to 350.  Prepare cupcake pans with liners for 24 cupcakes
2. Put all ingredients together in the mixer and beat it on high for 2 minutes 
3. Fill cupcake pans 3/4 full, (makes 24), and bake for approximately 15-17 minutes
4. Place the gems on a wire rack to cool, then frost with your favorite frosting if desired and serve