Pumpkin Muffins Recipe

Autumn’s Fluffiest Pumpkin Muffins Recipe: A Warm Hug in Bites

Fall’s crisp breeze carries the warmest memories of freshly baked pumpkin muffins that fill kitchens with irresistible comfort.

Packed with rich seasonal spices, these tender muffins blend sweet and earthy flavors in every delectable bite.

Cinnamon and nutmeg dance through a soft, moist crumb that melts on your tongue.

Wholesome ingredients transform simple ingredients into a morning treat that feels like a warm hug.

The aroma of pumpkin spice weaves magic through your kitchen, promising pure deliciousness.

Each muffin emerges from the oven golden and inviting, ready to become your new autumn obsession.

One taste, and you’ll understand why these muffins are the ultimate celebration of fall’s most cherished flavors.

What Makes Pumpkin Muffins A Classic

  • Quick and Easy Baking: Whip up these pumpkin muffins with minimal effort and straightforward steps, perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
  • Burst of Seasonal Flavor: Enjoy the rich, warm spices of pumpkin pie tucked into a soft, moist muffin that captures the essence of autumn comfort.
  • Versatile Breakfast or Snack: Grab these delightful muffins as a grab-and-go breakfast, afternoon pick-me-up, or sweet treat for any moment of the day.
  • No-Fuss Storage: Keep these muffins fresh at room temperature for several days, making them a convenient option for busy households and meal prep.

Pumpkin Muffins Ingredient Breakdown

Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: A soft and fluffy base for our muffins.
  • Baking Soda: A magical leavening agent that helps muffins rise.
  • Cinnamon: A warm and cozy spice that adds depth.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: A blend of classic autumn flavors.
  • Ginger: A zesty spice that brings a subtle kick.
  • Salt: A flavor enhancer that balances the sweetness.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Vegetable Oil: A smooth binding ingredient for moisture.
  • Granulated Sugar: A classic sweetener for balanced flavor.
  • Brown Sugar: A rich, caramel-like sweetener with depth.
  • Pumpkin Puree: A smooth, seasonal star of the recipe.
  • Eggs: A protein-rich binding ingredient.
  • Milk: A creamy liquid that adds richness.
Baking Accessories:
  • Nonstick Spray, Cupcake Liners: Essential for easy muffin preparation and serving.

How To Bake Pumpkin Muffins

Step 1: Prepare Baking Setup

Warm up your oven to a toasty 425°F.

Grab your muffin pan and give it a quick spray with nonstick cooking spray or line it with cute cupcake liners.

This will ensure your muffins pop out perfectly.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking soda
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Pumpkin pie spice
  • Ground ginger
  • Salt

Blend these dry ingredients until they’re well combined and looking smooth.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together:
  • Vegetable oil
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Eggs
  • Milk

Blend these ingredients until they’re fully mixed and looking creamy.

Step 4: Create Muffin Batter

Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients.

Gently fold everything together using a spatula.

Mix just until the ingredients are combined – you want to avoid overmixing.

Stop when no flour pockets remain.

Step 5: Fill Muffin Liners

Spoon the batter into each muffin liner, filling them right to the top.

This will create those beautiful, rounded muffin tops.

Step 6: Bake with Precision

Start baking at 425°F for 5 minutes.

Then, without opening the oven, reduce the temperature to 350°F.

Continue baking for 16-17 minutes.

Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes.

Then transfer to a wire rack.

These tasty treats can be stored at room temperature for up to a week in an airtight container.

Tips For Moist Pumpkin Muffins

  • Start baking at a high temperature to create a dramatic rise, giving your muffins that bakery-style tall top and impressive appearance.
  • Gently fold wet and dry ingredients together, avoiding overmixing to keep the muffins tender and prevent tough, dense textures.
  • Use canned pumpkin puree for consistent moisture and rich flavor, ensuring your muffins stay soft and delectable throughout the week.
  • Adjust pumpkin pie spice and ground ginger to suit your taste preferences, creating a personalized flavor profile that matches your palate.
  • Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness, keeping them moist and delicious for up to one week.

Pumpkin Muffins Storage Tips

  • Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, keeping them soft and fresh.
  • Wrap individual muffins in plastic wrap, place in freezer bags, and freeze for up to 3 months for longer preservation.
  • Remove frozen muffins and let them sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours or warm gently in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
  • Warm muffins in the oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes to restore their original texture and bring back that fresh-baked taste.

Pairings For Pumpkin Muffins

  • Pair with Creamy Chai Latte: Whisk together warm chai tea with steamed milk and a touch of honey, creating a spicy-sweet companion that echoes the pumpkin muffin's warm autumn flavors.
  • Complement with Maple Butter Spread: Craft a decadent maple butter by blending softened butter with pure maple syrup, offering a rich, sweet topping that enhances the muffin's warm spice profile.
  • Match with Cinnamon Cream Cheese: Blend softened cream cheese with ground cinnamon and a hint of vanilla, creating a smooth, tangy spread that balances the muffin's deep pumpkin notes.
  • Serve with Caramel Drizzle: Prepare a light caramel sauce using brown sugar and heavy cream, drizzling it gently over the muffin to add a luxurious, golden sweetness that complements the pumpkin's earthy undertones.

Easy Twists On Pumpkin Muffins

  • Gluten-Free Pumpkin Muffins: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to make these muffins safe for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
  • Vegan Pumpkin Muffins: Swap eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and use coconut milk instead of dairy milk. Choose plant-based oil and ensure all ingredients are vegan-friendly.
  • Low-Sugar Pumpkin Muffins: Reduce granulated and brown sugar by half, and substitute with monk fruit sweetener or stevia. Add extra spices like nutmeg to enhance natural sweetness without increasing calories.
  • Protein-Packed Pumpkin Muffins: Incorporate vanilla protein powder into the dry ingredients and add chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for additional protein and crunch. This variation boosts nutritional value and keeps you feeling full longer.

FAQs

  • Why do I start baking at a high temperature and then lower it?

The initial high temperature of 425°F creates a tall, domed muffin top by rapidly activating the baking soda. Lowering to 350°F ensures the inside bakes evenly without burning the exterior.

  • Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

Yes, but make sure to strain fresh pumpkin puree to remove excess moisture. Canned pumpkin has a consistent water content, which helps maintain the muffins’ texture.

  • What if I don't have pumpkin pie spice?

You can make your own by mixing 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves. This combination mimics the flavor profile of store-bought pumpkin pie spice.

  • How do I know when the muffins are perfectly baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean with no wet batter, the muffins are done. The tops should also be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.

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Pumpkin Muffins Recipe

Pumpkin Muffins Recipe


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4.6 from 25 reviews

  • Total Time: 42 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Harvest season comes alive with moist pumpkin muffins that blend warm spices and rich autumn flavors. Comforting crumbles and perfectly balanced sweetness invite you to savor each delightful bite of this classic seasonal treat.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Dry Ingredients:

  • 1 3/4 cups (219g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Sweeteners and Wet Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup (67g) packed light or dark brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) melted coconut oil
  • 1 1/2 cups (340g) canned pumpkin puree
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) milk (dairy or nondairy)

Instructions

  1. Prepare all necessary baking equipment, ensuring a clean and organized workspace for crafting delectable pumpkin muffins.
  2. Position the oven rack in the middle position and heat to a robust 425°F (218°C). Thoroughly coat a 12-cavity muffin tin with nonstick spray or carefully line with paper cupcake liners.
  3. Create the dry mixture by combining flour, baking soda, warming spices like cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, ginger, and salt in a spacious mixing bowl. Whisk thoroughly to distribute ingredients evenly.
  4. In a separate vessel, blend liquid components including vegetable oil, granulated and brown sugars, vibrant pumpkin puree, farm-fresh eggs, and smooth milk. Mix until the ingredients achieve a harmonious consistency.
  5. Gently merge wet and dry mixtures, folding with minimal stirring to prevent overworking the batter. Stop mixing once no visible flour streaks remain.
  6. Distribute the luscious batter generously into each muffin cavity, filling to the absolute rim for maximum volume and beautifully rounded tops.
  7. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and immediately reduce temperature to 425°F for 5 minutes, then lower to 350°F (177°C) without opening the oven door.
  8. Continue baking for an additional 16-17 minutes, monitoring carefully until a slender wooden pick emerges clean when inserted into the muffin’s center.
  9. Remove from oven and allow muffins to rest in the tin for 5 minutes, enabling gentle cooling and easy removal.
  10. Transfer muffins to a wire rack, permitting complete cooling. Store in an airtight container at room temperature, enjoying within one week of preparation.

Notes

  • Swap white flour with whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives for a healthier, more dietary-friendly version of these muffins.
  • Reduce sugar content by using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, which can enhance the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.
  • Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture and flavor complexity without compromising the muffins’ delicate structure.
  • Cool muffins completely before storing to prevent condensation and maintain their perfect soft, fluffy texture.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 21-22 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 206
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 9g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 37mg
James Hambly

James Hambly

Founder & Recipe Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Education, Farm-to-Table Cooking, Southern Cuisine

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Hands-on training in professional cooking techniques, emphasizing farm-to-table practices and Southern cuisine.

The Chef’s Academy
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive culinary education covering global cuisines, kitchen management, and food safety.​


James grew up surrounded by the smells of cast-iron skillets and slow-cooked Southern meals in Asheville, North Carolina.
He sharpened his skills with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, and later leveled up with an Associate Degree from The Chef’s Academy.
James’s philosophy is simple: the best meals don’t need fancy tricks, just fresh ingredients, a hot pan, and a little bit of heart. His favorite days are spent testing one-pan wonders, chasing bold flavors, and creating recipes that feel easy, even on a busy night.

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