Pumpkin Spice Muffins

Name: Pumpkin Spice Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients: 1 cup pumpkin puree; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 cup brown sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Sugar Crafted

I absolutely adore making Pumpkin Spice Muffins, especially when the weather turns crisp and cool. The warm, inviting aroma that fills my kitchen as they bake is simply irresistible! These muffins are the perfect blend of pumpkin puree, aromatic spices, and a hint of sweetness, making them a seasonal treat that everyone loves. Whether I’m enjoying them with my morning coffee or sharing them with friends during a gathering, they never fail to bring a smile. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

Created by

Keira Dalton

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:49:36.141Z

When I first experimented with Pumpkin Spice Muffins, I wanted to create a recipe that encapsulated the essence of fall. After several attempts, I found that combining fresh pumpkin puree with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves offered the ideal balance of flavor. My secret tip? Browning the butter first adds an incredible richness that elevates the taste even further!

As I continued to perfect my muffins, I discovered that using real spices instead of pre-mixed pumpkin spice could bring a whole new depth to the flavor profile. Each bite is a delightful blend of moisture and a light crumb that melts in your mouth. These muffins have become a staple in my home and I can’t wait to share them with you!

Why You'll Love These Muffins
Rich pumpkin flavor balanced with warm spices
Moist, tender texture that delights the palate
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or an afternoon treat

Understanding Pumpkin Puree

Using real pumpkin puree is essential for achieving that moist texture and rich flavor in your pumpkin spice muffins. Canned pumpkin puree is convenient and consistent, but you can also roast and puree fresh pumpkin. If you choose the latter, select a sugar pumpkin for the best results. The key is to ensure the puree is not too watery; excess moisture can lead to dense muffins. If using homemade puree, give it a little time to drain off any additional liquid before adding it to your batter.

Pumpkin not only contributes to the flavor and moisture but also offers nutritional benefits such as antioxidants and fiber. This makes your muffin not just a tasty treat but also a more wholesome option. If you want to experiment with different flavors, consider integrating other purees like butternut squash or sweet potato, which can provide a unique twist while maintaining the muffin's deliciousness.

Perfecting the Muffin Texture

To achieve moist muffins with a tender crumb, it's crucial not to overmix your batter. When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir gently until just combined; a few lumps are perfectly acceptable. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough muffins as it develops gluten. Also, make sure not to skip the baking soda and powder; they are pivotal for leavening and will ensure that your muffins rise beautifully. If you're unsure, a quick visual check is a great tactic—look for a smooth batter with no dry flour pockets.

Another crucial factor is the baking time. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your muffins starting around the 18-minute mark. They should be golden around the edges, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If they are not browning adequately, it might be a sign that your oven temperature is lower than indicated, so consider using an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious muffins:

Ingredients

1 cup pumpkin puree
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your muffins:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, brown sugar, and eggs until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Add Nuts (Optional)

Fold in the chopped walnuts if desired.

Fill Muffin Tin

Scoop the batter into the lined muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.

Bake

Bake for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

If you want extra moisture, try adding a little sour cream to the batter. You can also experiment with different spices based on your taste preferences!

Storage and Freezing Tips

Once your muffins have cooled, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you're planning to keep them longer, consider freezing them to preserve freshness. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and warm them in the microwave for about 15 seconds for that freshly-baked taste.

Make sure to label your containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness. If you opt to freeze your muffins, you can also adjust your baking batch size. For instance, the recipe easily doubles, allowing you to create a larger batch for gatherings or simply to have on hand.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

While the classic pumpkin spice is delicious on its own, feel free to get creative by adding different spices or flavorings. For a spicier kick, incorporate a pinch of ground ginger or a dash of allspice. If you prefer a sweeter touch, consider adding chocolate chips or dried cranberries into the batter. These additions can complement the warm spices, providing a lovely contrast to the pumpkin’s earthiness.

Alternatively, you could make a cream cheese frosting to top your muffins for a delightful finish. Simply mix cream cheese with a bit of powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. This adds a luscious creamy element that pairs beautifully with the spice flavors. It's an excellent way to elevate your muffins for special occasions or simply when you're looking for a more indulgent treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned pumpkin?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly for this recipe.

→ How can I make these muffins gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Can I freeze these muffins?

Yes, these muffins freeze well! Just place them in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for brown sugar?

You can use granulated sugar, although it may slightly change the flavor and texture!