There’s nothing that screams autumn like the smell of pumpkin spice wafting through your home. These deliciously moist pumpkin spice muffins are perfect for a fall breakfast or a sweet afternoon tea treat. Not only are they easy to make, but they also fill your kitchen with the most delicious aromas of cinnamon and nutmeg, reminiscent of cozy sweaters and falling leaves.
Ingredients
Get ready to indulge in the spirit of fall with this fantastic list of ingredients that’ll bring warmth and flavor to your baking.
Equipments
To bake the perfect pumpkin spice muffins, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Prepare a muffin tin, mixing bowls, a whisk, a spatula, and an oven thermometer for accuracy. These muffins are easiest to make with simple, basic equipment you likely already have in your kitchen.
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Muffins – Step By Step
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your muffins bake evenly and fully. A properly heated oven is crucial for the rising of your pumpkin spice muffins. Line your muffin tin with paper liners for easy removal and cleanup. Double-check the temperature with an oven thermometer if you have one, as accuracy is key.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine 1 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended and set aside. Proper mixing of dry ingredients ensures an even distribution of leaveners, which helps the muffins rise properly.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, and 1 cup of pumpkin puree. Make sure to mix until smooth and fully combined. The mixing of wet ingredients creates a rich flavor base that holds the muffins’ ingredients together and imparts moisture.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense muffins. A delicate hand in mixing will help keep the muffins light and fluffy. Using a spatula at this stage will make folding the ingredients together easier and more effective.
Step 5: Add Mix-ins
Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) and 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or raisins if desired. These mix-ins add texture and additional flavor complexity. Ensure the additions are evenly distributed through the batter. This step is perfect for adding a personalized touch—feel free to substitute or add your favorite spices and ingredients.
Step 6: Fill Muffin Tins
Using a spoon or a scoop, fill each liner in the muffin tin about 2/3 full with batter. This allows room for the muffins to rise without overflowing. Spreading the batter evenly ensures each muffin bakes uniformly and bakes around the same time.
Step 7: Bake
Place the muffin tin on the center rack in the preheated oven. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Oven temperatures can vary, so be sure to check for doneness rather than relying on time alone. This baking process is what will develop the perfect muffin texture—soft on the inside with a slightly crispy exterior.
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Muffins
Serve your pumpkin spice muffins warm topped with a pat of butter or a dollop of cream cheese for an extra layer of richness. They pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or a spiced tea. These muffins also serve as a wonderful base for more luxurious dessert presentations, topped with a spiced cream or caramel drizzle.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
Use fresh spices for the best flavor—consider grinding your spices for that extra fresh touch. If you’re using canned pumpkin, make sure it’s pure pumpkin puree and not pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugars and spices. Allow your muffins to cool for at least 10 minutes before removing from the tin to prevent them from breaking apart.
High-Protein Pumpkin Spice Muffins for a Nutritious Twist
If you’re looking to add some muscle-building power to your muffins, try substituting all-purpose flour with almond flour and adding a scoop of vanilla protein powder. This version gives you the delightful combination of high protein content without sacrificing flavor. Use Greek yogurt instead of some of the oil for a creamy texture and additional protein punch.
Adding protein makes these muffins a perfect post-workout snack or a go-to breakfast for those busy mornings. They’re nutritious yet keep you filled and energized without nasty blood sugar spikes.
Low-Carb Pumpkin Spice Muffins – A Guilt-Free Indulgence
For those seeking a low-carb option, replace regular flour with almond or coconut flour. Incorporating low-calorie sweeteners such as stevia or erythritol can help in reducing sugar content. This adaptation keeps the muffins delightfully moist while reducing carbs, ideal for those managing glucose levels or following a keto lifestyle.
This version still captures the quintessential autumn flavors but will be a hit for those cautious about their carb intake. Enjoy muffins that are carb-conscious yet perfectly satisfying.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw frozen muffins at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave for a just-out-of-the-oven sensation.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned? Yes, just make sure to puree it very well to ensure a smooth texture.
How do I make my muffins more moist? Ensure not to overmix the batter and consider adding more pumpkin puree for extra moisture.
Can I make the muffins without eggs? Yes, you can substitute eggs with flaxseeds soaked in water or use a commercial egg replacer.
What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice? You can make your own by mixing cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to suit your taste.
How should I adjust if I want a stronger spice flavor? Simply increase the amount of pumpkin pie spice or add more of your favorite individual spices.
“faqOfArticlePost”: [{“question”: “Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?”,”answer”: “Yes, just make sure to puree it very well to ensure a smooth texture.”},{“question”: “How do I make my muffins more moist?”,”answer”: “Ensure not to overmix the batter and consider adding more pumpkin puree for extra moisture.”},{“question”: “Can I make the muffins without eggs?”,”answer”: “Yes, you can substitute eggs with flaxseeds soaked in water or use a commercial egg replacer.”},{“question”: “What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?”,”answer”: “You can make your own by mixing cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves to suit your taste.”},{“question”: “How should I adjust if I want a stronger spice flavor?”,”answer”: “Simply increase the amount of pumpkin pie spice or add more of your favorite individual spices.”}]
Spread the Joy of Pumpkin Spice Muffins
Whether you’re a fan of pumpkin, a lover of all things spiced, or simply on the hunt for a delicious muffin, this recipe is your go-to solution. These seasonal treats are easy to make and delight anyone lucky enough to try them. Feel free to share your results, suggestions, and photos in the comments below. We love hearing from our readers and seeing your wonderful creations. Happy baking!
Pumpkin Spice Muffins
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- all-purpose flour
- baking soda
- baking powder
- pumpkin pie spice
- salt
- large eggs
- granulated sugar
- vegetable oil
- pumpkin puree
- chopped nuts
- chocolate chips
Instructions
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, oil, and pumpkin puree until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in nuts and chocolate chips or raisins, if desired.
- Spoon the batter into the muffin liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.