Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin pan with cupcake liners.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the molasses and vanilla extract until fully combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Fold in the orange zest and chopped crystallized ginger, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Divide the batter evenly among the lined cupcake cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, frost with cream cheese frosting or serve plain for a delightful ginger treat.
Notes
Dust the cooled cupcakes with powdered sugar for an elegant touch and top with a small piece of candied ginger.