Pumpkin Spice Muffins

Pumpkin spice muffins are the perfect autumn treat, combining warm spices with the rich flavor of pumpkin. These moist and fluffy muffins are easy to make and are ideal for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Whether you enjoy them plain or topped with a bit of butter or cream cheese, they’re sure to be a seasonal favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly spiced – A delicious blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves gives these muffins their signature flavor.
• Moist and tender – Thanks to the pumpkin puree, these muffins have a soft and fluffy texture.
• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this a go-to recipe.
• Great for meal prep – These muffins store well, making them a convenient grab-and-go option.
• Customizable – Add nuts, chocolate chips, or a streusel topping for extra flavor and texture.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Pumpkin pie spice
• Cinnamon
• Salt
• Pumpkin puree
• Brown sugar
• Granulated sugar
• Eggs
• Vegetable oil (or melted butter)
• Vanilla extract
• Milk

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
2. Mix the dry ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Combine the wet ingredients – In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, oil, vanilla extract, and milk until well combined.
4. Mix the batter – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
5. Fill the muffin tin – Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
6. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and serve – Let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes about 12 muffins
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 18-22 minutes
• Total time: Approximately 30 minutes

Variations

• Nutty addition – Fold in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Chocolate lovers – Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet twist.
• Streusel topping – Mix butter, flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon to create a crumbly topping before baking.
• Gluten-free option – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.
• Maple flavor – Replace the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a hint of natural sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep in the fridge for up to a week in an airtight container.
• Freezing: Wrap muffins individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.

FAQs

How can I make these muffins healthier?

You can substitute some of the sugar with honey or maple syrup and use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes! Roast and puree fresh pumpkin, then strain excess moisture for the best results.

Can I make these muffins dairy-free?

Yes, use almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk, and replace butter with coconut oil.

Why did my muffins turn out dense?

Overmixing the batter can lead to dense muffins. Stir until just combined for a light texture.

How can I make mini pumpkin spice muffins?

Use a mini muffin tin and bake at 350°F for about 12-15 minutes.

What can I use instead of vegetable oil?

Melted butter, coconut oil, or applesauce are great substitutes for vegetable oil.

Can I add a cream cheese filling?

Yes! Mix cream cheese with powdered sugar and spoon a small amount into the center of each muffin before baking.

How do I know when my muffins are done?

Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re ready.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to bake in batches if needed.

What spices are in pumpkin pie spice?

Pumpkin pie spice typically contains cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and sometimes allspice.

Conclusion

Pumpkin spice muffins are an easy and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of fall. With their soft texture and warm spices, they make the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them plain, topped with butter, or with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, these muffins are sure to become a favorite in your home. Try out different variations to make them your own and enjoy every bite!

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