If you’re on the hunt for a cozy treat that perfectly captures the spirit of autumn, look no further than this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins Recipe. These muffins are an absolute dream, bursting with the warm flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon, and finished with a sweet, crunchy cinnamon sugar topping that will have you coming back for more. Soft and moist on the inside, with a tantalizing golden crust, they make a fantastic breakfast, snack, or even dessert. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is a heartfelt way to celebrate all things pumpkin!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple yet essential ingredients come together beautifully to create the perfect balance of flavor, moisture, and texture in your muffins. Each component plays a key role, from the rich pumpkin puree that keeps the muffins tender to the pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon that bring warm, comforting notes to every bite.
- 1 cup pumpkin puree: Adds moisture and gives the muffins their star autumn flavor.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and a soft crumb.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Contributes deep, molasses-like sweetness and helps keep muffins moist.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Balances sweetness and helps create a light texture.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the muffins tender and gives them a moist finish.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and add richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps muffins rise and become fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acid in pumpkin for leavening.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice: A warming blend that’s key for that signature pumpkin spice taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds extra cinnamon warmth to the batter.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Used for brushing the tops to help the cinnamon sugar adhere.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: For the crunchy cinnamon sugar topping.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Mixed with sugar to create the irresistible topping.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin pan with paper liners or lightly grease it to ensure your muffins come out easily and keep their lovely shape. This simple step sets the stage for perfectly baked muffins every time.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and luscious. This blend forms the flavorful and moist base for the muffins, so mix well to combine.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and ground cinnamon. These dry ingredients will give your muffins the right rise, spice, and texture.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Gently add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—overworking the batter can make the muffins tough instead of tender and fluffy.
Step 5: Fill Muffin Cups and Bake
Spoon the batter into the muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The smell of pumpkin and cinnamon will start filling your kitchen, giving you all the cozy vibes.
Step 6: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
While the muffins are still warm, brush each one with melted butter. Then, dip or sprinkle the tops with the cinnamon sugar mixture made from granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This gives the muffins a delightful, slightly crunchy finish that contrasts perfectly with the soft interior.
Step 7: Cool and Enjoy
Let the muffins cool slightly before digging in. This step helps the muffins set and ensures you get that perfect bite every time. Now, your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins Recipe is ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, try topping your muffins with a light dusting of powdered sugar, a small dollop of cream cheese frosting, or even a drizzle of maple glaze. These garnishes elevate the muffins and add visual appeal along with complementary flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair these muffins with a warm cup of spiced chai tea, pumpkin spice latte, or simply a hot mug of your favorite coffee. They also make a fantastic accompaniment to creamy yogurt or fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast or snack.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins Recipe arranged on a beautiful rustic wooden platter, sprinkled with chopped toasted pecans or drizzled with honey for added flair. You could even hollow out the centers and fill them with a spoonful of cinnamon-spiced apple compote for a fun surprise!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your muffins fresh and moist, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to avoid condensation, which can make them soggy.
Freezing
These muffins freeze beautifully! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you want a quick treat, just thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven.
Reheating
Reheat muffins in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or pop them into a toaster oven for a few minutes to revive that freshly baked warmth and crisp cinnamon sugar topping. This little bit of heat brings the flavors to life again and makes them taste like they’ve just come out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?
Yes! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly in this recipe and is actually the most common and convenient option. Just be sure it is pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which includes added sugars and spices.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil with butter?
You can substitute melted butter for vegetable oil if you prefer, which will add a richer flavor. Use equal amounts for a lovely buttery twist, but remember it may make the muffins slightly denser.
How can I make these muffins vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap the eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer, and use a plant-based oil and vegan butter for brushing. The texture will be just as delicious with these simple swaps.
Will the muffins be sweet enough with less sugar?
Absolutely! You can reduce the sugars slightly if you want a less sweet muffin, but keep in mind that the cinnamon sugar topping adds a big part of the sweetness and crunchy texture, so don’t omit that.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Definitely! Adding chopped pecans, walnuts, or chocolate chips to the batter is a fantastic way to personalize your Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins Recipe and add some extra texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you enjoy making and savoring this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins Recipe as much as I do. These muffins bring warmth and joy to any occasion, combining simple ingredients with classic autumn flavors for a treat that’s hard to resist. So grab your mixing bowl and get ready to fill your kitchen with the delicious smell of pumpkin and cinnamon today!
Print
Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins are a moist, flavorful treat perfect for autumn or any time you crave a spiced pumpkin delight. Easy to prepare and baked to golden perfection, they feature a tender crumb infused with pumpkin and warm spices, topped with a buttery cinnamon sugar coating for a sweet, crunchy finish.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare muffin pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin pan with paper liners or lightly grease the pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pumpkin pie spice, and ground cinnamon, ensuring all spices and leavening are evenly distributed.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients and stir gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the muffins tender.
- Fill muffin cups: Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full to allow room for rising.
- Bake: Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
- Add cinnamon sugar topping: While the muffins are still warm, brush the tops with melted butter and then either dip or sprinkle them with the cinnamon sugar mixture to create a delicious, sweet crust.
- Cool and serve: Allow the muffins to cool slightly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack or serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, substitute vegetable oil with melted butter in the batter.
- Ensure you do not overmix the batter to avoid dense muffins.
- You can store these muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Feel free to add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for variation.
- Use canned pumpkin puree or homemade pumpkin puree according to availability.
