The aroma of warm spices wafting through the kitchen is a powerful reminder of cozy autumn days. As the leaves turn, there's something comforting about indulging in Pumpkin Spice Muffins that perfectly encapsulate the season. This recipe not only brings a delightful twist to your morning routine but is also a fantastic way to use canned pumpkin puree, making it a quick and easy option for busy home chefs. Packed with rich spices and optional walnuts for some texture, these muffins are crowd-pleasers that can warm even the chilliest of days. Plus, they freeze wonderfully, allowing you to savor the flavors of fall any time of year. Curious to discover how to whip up these delicious treats in just a matter of minutes? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are these muffins irresistible?
Simplicity is key: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, these Pumpkin Spice Muffins are easy to whip up, even for beginner bakers.
Warm, cozy flavors come from a blend of spices that not only taste great but fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
Customizable with optional walnuts and raisins, you can make them your own or play around with other mix-ins.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it's a casual breakfast, a heartfelt gift, or a comforting snack, these muffins fit right in.
Make ahead and freeze for busy days! Enjoy the taste of fall whenever the craving strikes. Want to elevate your treats further? Check out these No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Bars for an unbeatable dessert option!
Pumpkin Spice Muffin Ingredients
• Get ready to indulge in the delightful flavors and warmth of fall with these simple ingredients!
For the Batter
- All-purpose flour – A versatile base that gives these muffins perfect structure and texture.
- Baking soda – Helps the muffins rise beautifully, ensuring they are fluffy and light.
- Baking powder – Provides an additional lift to create airy, tender muffins.
- Salt – Enhances the flavor by balancing out the sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon – Adds warm, sweet notes that evoke cozy autumn vibes.
- Ground nutmeg – A little spice goes a long way in creating that nostalgic fall flavor.
- Ground ginger – Adds a subtle warmth that pairs beautifully with pumpkin.
- Ground cloves – Contributes an aromatic touch that makes your muffins truly irresistible.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the muffins for a perfect balance of flavors.
- Brown sugar – Adds moisture and a depth of flavor with its hint of caramel.
- Large eggs – Binds the ingredients together and provides richness.
- Canned pumpkin puree – The star ingredient that not only provides flavor but also moisture in your muffins.
- Vegetable oil – Keeps the muffins moist and tender without being heavy.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of sweetness.
Optional Add-Ins
- Walnuts – Adds a crunchy texture; feel free to substitute with pecans for a different twist.
- Raisins – Offers a burst of sweetness; for a budget-friendly option, use any dried fruit you have on hand.
Enjoy making these cozy Pumpkin Spice Muffins, and for a delightful treat that requires no baking, check out these No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Bars!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Spice Muffins
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a standard muffin tin with paper liners. This step ensures your Pumpkin Spice Muffins don’t stick and make for easy cleanup. While the oven heats, gather all your ingredients and equipment, making your baking process smooth and enjoyable.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. To this dry mixture, add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ½ teaspoon of ground ginger, and ½ teaspoon of ground cloves. Stir until evenly combined, letting the warm scent of spices fill your kitchen.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together ¾ cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of packed brown sugar, and 2 large eggs until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree, ½ cup of vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, thoroughly blending everything together. Aim for a velvety texture that reflects the deliciousness of the Pumpkin Spice Muffins to come.
Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Take care not to overmix; you want to keep the muffins fluffy. The batter will be thick and a little lumpy, which is perfect for your cozy Pumpkin Spice Muffins.
Step 5: Fold in Optional Ingredients
If you’re using them, gently fold in 1 cup of chopped walnuts and ½ cup of raisins at this stage for added texture and sweetness. Mixing these ingredients will enhance the depth of flavor in your muffins, making them a delightful treat for anyone who tries them.
Step 6: Fill the Muffin Cups
Using a scoop or a spoon, fill each muffin cup about ⅔ full with the prepared batter. This allows room for the muffins to rise beautifully while baking. Ensure that your muffin cups are evenly filled, so your Pumpkin Spice Muffins bake uniformly and look delightful when they puff up.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the muffins are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The tops should be golden brown and spring back slightly when touched, signaling that these Pumpkin Spice Muffins are perfectly baked.
Step 8: Cool the Muffins
Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step allows air to circulate around the muffins, preventing sogginess and ensuring you have a delightful treat ready to enjoy!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Spice Muffins
Room Temperature: Keep your cooled Pumpkin Spice Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring they stay moist and delicious.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store the muffins in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Wrap them individually to prevent drying out.
Freezer: Freeze the muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container once solid. They can last up to 3 months!
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw muffins overnight in the fridge and warm them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. They’ll taste just as delightful as the day you baked them!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Spice Muffins are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can mix the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance. Additionally, you can whisk together the wet ingredients and keep them refrigerated for up to 24 hours to save even more time. When you're ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry mixtures, fold in your optional add-ins, and follow the baking instructions. To maintain quality, ensure that the wet mixture is kept chilled and the dry mix is sealed tightly to avoid moisture. With these prep steps, you'll enjoy the delightful aroma of freshly baked muffins with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Spice Muffins
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Use Fresh Spices: Spices lose their potency over time. Freshly ground spices can elevate your muffins' flavor, making them taste more vibrant and aromatic.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins instead of light and fluffy ones.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and canned pumpkin puree are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter, leading to better texture in your muffins.
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Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check the muffins; they’re done when it comes out clean! Don't wait too long to avoid dryness.
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Play with Mix-Ins: Don’t be afraid to experiment! Try adding chocolate chips, cranberries, or even butterscotch chips for a different twist without compromising the essence of your Pumpkin Spice Muffins.
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Storage Secrets: Store cooled muffins in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can be frozen for later enjoyment, letting you savor pumpkin flavors anytime!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Spice Muffins
The warm flavors of these muffins create a cozy atmosphere perfect for sharing with loved ones.
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Creamy Chai Latte: The spiced notes of chai beautifully complement the pumpkin flavor, creating a perfect cozy drink pairing.
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Maple Glazed Bacon: The sweet and savory combination adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with the muffin's soft texture, enhancing each bite.
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Fresh Apple Slices: Crisp and juicy, apples add a refreshing element that balances the richness of the muffins, making it a satisfying snack.
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Greek Yogurt with Honey: Creamy and slightly tangy yogurt drizzled with honey offers a creamy contrast that pairs wonderfully with the warm muffin spices.
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Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: For a sweet treat, these donuts complement the pumpkin muffins with a similar flavor profile, creating an indulgent brunch spread.
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Spiced Hot Chocolate: Luxurious, buttery hot chocolate infused with spices deepens the fall flavors, creating a warm hug in a mug.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzling a little caramel sauce over the muffins adds an indulgent sweetness that elevates the entire experience.
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Iced Tea with Lemon: A refreshing iced tea cuts through the richness of the muffins while its citrus notes brighten the entire meal.
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Pumpkin Soup: For a true fall feast, serve a warm bowl of pumpkin soup on the side for a delightful theme and complementary flavors.
Pumpkin Spice Muffin Variations
Feel free to get creative with these muffins, transforming them to match your taste and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for muffins everyone can enjoy. Just be sure to check your flour blend for proper ratios!
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Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) and swap vegetable oil for coconut oil or melted vegan butter. These delightful twists don’t compromise flavor!
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Lower Sugar: Use half the amount of granulated and brown sugar, and add mashed bananas for natural sweetness. You’d be surprised just how wonderfully sweet your muffins can still be!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to your spice mix for an unexpected heat that complements the sweetness perfectly. It’s a dance of flavors that keeps you coming back for more!
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Chocolate Lovers: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips instead of nuts or in addition. Chocolate and pumpkin is a match made in heaven, adding a delightful richness to each bite.
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Nut-Free: Replace walnuts with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a crunchy element without the nuts. This modification ensures everyone can partake in the deliciousness!
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Fruit Fusion: Incorporate ½ cup of chopped apples or pears in addition to or instead of raisins for added moisture and a refreshing fruitiness that contrasts wonderfully with the spices.
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Dessert Twist: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk after cooling for a sweet finish that feels truly special. It elevates your muffins from cozy breakfast treats to delightful desserts!
For more delicious bites, try making these No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Bars as the perfect follow-up to your pumpkin-spice creations!
Pumpkin Spice Muffins Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When selecting canned pumpkin puree, opt for 100% pure pumpkin without added spices or sugars. Look for a deep orange color without any dark spots, indicating freshness. Brands like Libby’s are often recommended. If you're ever in doubt, a quick taste can help confirm the quality!
What’s the best way to store leftover muffins?
The more, the merrier! Keep your cooled Pumpkin Spice Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week, wrapping each muffin individually to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze the muffins? If so, how?
Very! To freeze your Pumpkin Spice Muffins, first let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about an hour. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, squeezing out as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months!
What should I do if my muffins are too dry?
Oh no! If your muffins turn out dry, it may be due to overmixing or baking them too long. To troubleshoot, ensure you mix just until combined and use a toothpick to check for doneness a minute or two earlier next time. If you find them dry after baking, try serving with a spread of cream cheese or butter for extra moisture.
Are there any allergy considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you're cooking for someone with allergies, be cautious of the optional walnuts. You can omit them or substitute with seeds or coconut flakes instead. Always check ingredient labels for allergens present in the canned pumpkin or spices, especially to avoid cross-contamination.
How can I make these muffins healthier?
Great question! To make Pumpkin Spice Muffins healthier, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. You can also reduce the sugars slightly or use natural sweeteners like maple syrup. Additionally, unsweetened applesauce can replace some of the oil for a lighter muffin. Enjoy experimenting!

Decadent No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Bars You’ll Love
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- 9x9 inch baking dish
- refrigerator
- spatula
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Filling
- 2 packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream cold
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup strawberries, chopped for topping
Instructions
Preparation
- In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9x9 inch baking dish.
- In another bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
- Spread the filling over the crust and smooth the top with a spatula. Refrigerate for at least 60 minutes or until set.
- Once set, top with chopped strawberries before serving. Slice into bars and enjoy!
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