Why make this recipe
Pumpkin muffins are a delightful treat that brings the cozy flavors of fall into your kitchen year-round. They are moist, flavorful, and can easily brighten your morning or snack time. This recipe not only pleases your taste buds but also allows you to enjoy the health benefits of pumpkin, which is rich in vitamins and fiber. Adding a creamy glaze and a delicious cinnamon swirl takes these muffins to another level of indulgence!
How to make pumpkin muffins
Ingredients:
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- ½ cup melted butter (or vegetable oil)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For the cinnamon swirl:
- ¼ cup melted butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For the cream cheese glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 Tbsp milk
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners or spray with nonstick spray.
- In a bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined; avoid overmixing to ensure soft muffins.
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the swirl.
- Fill the muffin cups halfway with batter. Add a spoonful of the cinnamon swirl on top, then add more batter until cups are nearly full. Use a toothpick to swirl lightly.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops are golden.
- While the muffins cool, whisk together the glaze ingredients until smooth. Drizzle this over the slightly cooled muffins.
How to serve pumpkin muffins
These pumpkin muffins are delicious on their own and can be served warm or at room temperature. You can enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day. The cream cheese glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness, making them perfect for any occasion.
How to store pumpkin muffins
To store your pumpkin muffins, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can freeze them. Place the cooled muffins in a freezer bag or container, and they’ll last for up to 2 months. Just thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy.
Tips to make pumpkin muffins
- Don’t overmix your batter; this keeps the muffins light and fluffy.
- Use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for the best flavor.
- For a deeper cinnamon flavor, you can increase the amount of ground cinnamon in the batter or swirl.
- Make sure to use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
Variation
You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to the batter for added texture and flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or add oats for a heartier muffin.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can roast and puree fresh pumpkin. Just ensure it’s well-drained for the right consistency.
Can I make these muffins without eggs?
Yes! You can use a flax egg or applesauce as a substitute for the egg for a vegan option.
How can I make these muffins gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking.

Pumpkin Muffins
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful pumpkin muffins with a creamy glaze and a delicious cinnamon swirl, perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- ½ cup melted butter (or vegetable oil)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- For the cinnamon swirl:
- ¼ cup melted butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- For the cream cheese glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 Tbsp milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners or spray with nonstick spray.
- In a bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined; avoid overmixing to ensure soft muffins.
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the swirl.
- Fill the muffin cups halfway with batter. Add a spoonful of the cinnamon swirl on top, then add more batter until cups are nearly full. Use a toothpick to swirl lightly.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops are golden.
- While the muffins cool, whisk together the glaze ingredients until smooth. Drizzle this over the slightly cooled muffins.
Notes
For a deeper cinnamon flavor, increase the amount of ground cinnamon. Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: pumpkin, muffins, fall, cinnamon, baked goods