Moist Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
A buttery crumb meets warm spices for a dessert-worthy fall treat.
Moist Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Frosting: Your New Favorite Fall Treat
When autumn arrives, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through the kitchen. These moist pumpkin spice muffins, crowned with a generous swirl of cream cheese frosting, are the perfect way to celebrate the season. They’re tender, warmly spiced, and just sweet enough—equally at home at a brunch table or as a comforting dessert. Plus, they’re easy enough for bakers of any skill level to master.
Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Spice Muffins
These muffins are a standout for several reasons:
- Moist and Fluffy Texture: Thanks to pumpkin puree and evaporated milk, these muffins stay moist for days.
- Bold Spice Flavor: A blend of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg gives them a classic fall taste.
- Creamy Frosting: The tangy-sweet cream cheese frosting is the perfect complement to the spiced muffin base.
- Easy to Make: The batter comes together quickly with simple ingredients and basic kitchen tools.
Ingredients
For the Muffins
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup butter, cut into pieces
- 1 cup (heaping) pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup evaporated milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup golden raisins (optional)
For the Topping
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1/4 cup salted butter, softened
- 1 ounce cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 pound powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Muffin Batter
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Generously grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
- Cut in Butter: Add the butter pieces to the dry ingredients. Use two knives or a pastry cutter to cut the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. If using, fold in the golden raisins.
- Fill Muffin Cups: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups. The batter may not fill all twelve cups unless each is only half full—that’s normal.
Adding the Spiced Topping
- Make the Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Sprinkle Generously: Sprinkle the spiced sugar mixture over the top of each unbaked muffin.
Baking the Muffins
- Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the muffins cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat Butter and Cream Cheese: In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low at first, then increasing the speed as the sugar is incorporated.
- Add Vanilla: Mix in the vanilla extract and beat until the frosting is light and creamy.
- Frost the Muffins: Once the muffins are completely cool, spread the frosting on top. For a decorative touch, use a piping bag with a large star tip.
- Store Properly: Because of the cream cheese, store frosted muffins in the refrigerator. The icing will soften at room temperature, so keep them chilled until ready to serve.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Spice Muffins
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until the ingredients are combined to keep the muffins tender.
- Use Fresh Spices: Fresh ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger will give your muffins the best flavor.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, cream cheese, and egg are at room temperature for the smoothest batter and frosting.
- Variations: Try adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter, or swap raisins for dried cranberries for a different twist.
What others are reading
Why Pumpkin Puree is Key
Pumpkin puree isn’t just for flavor—it adds moisture and a subtle sweetness that makes these muffins incredibly tender. Avoid using pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices. Pure pumpkin puree gives you control over the sweetness and spice level, so your muffins turn out just right.
The Role of Cream Cheese Frosting
The tangy cream cheese frosting balances the sweetness of the muffins, adding a creamy, rich layer that takes them from everyday to extraordinary. The frosting is also customizable: add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of maple extract for extra fall flair.
Serving Suggestions
These muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. They pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk. For a special occasion, dust the frosted tops with extra cinnamon or a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice. They also make a thoughtful gift when packaged in a cute box or basket.
Storing and Freezing
Store frosted muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze unfrosted muffins for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature, then frost just before serving for the freshest taste. If you plan to freeze frosted muffins, be aware that the texture of the frosting may change slightly upon thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of milk?
A: Evaporated milk adds richness and moisture, but you can substitute regular milk or a milk alternative (like almond or oat milk) if needed. The texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Q: Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
Q: How do I know when the muffins are done?
A: Muffins are done when the tops are golden brown and a wooden skewer inserted in the center comes out clean, with no wet batter clinging to it.
Q: Can I leave out the raisins?
A: Absolutely. The raisins are optional, and the muffins will still be delicious without them. Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips instead.
Q: How should I store leftover frosting?
A: Store leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Let it soften slightly at room temperature before re-whipping for the best texture.
Q: Can I turn this recipe into cupcakes?
A: Yes, you can bake the batter in cupcake liners and adjust the baking time if needed. For a dedicated pumpkin spice cupcake recipe, see other variations that may include additional steps or ingredients.
Pumpkin Spice Muffins vs. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip
| Feature | Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Frosting | Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins |
|---|---|---|
| Main Flavors | Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, creamy frosting | Pumpkin, chocolate chips, warm spices |
| Texture | Moist, tender, lightly spiced crumb | Moist, studded with melty chocolate |
| Topping | Cream cheese frosting, spiced sugar | Mini chocolate chips sprinkled on top |
| Best For | Dessert, special occasions, brunch | Breakfast, snack, lunchbox treat |
Conclusion
Moist, warmly spiced pumpkin muffins with a rich cream cheese frosting are a quintessential fall treat that everyone should try making at least once. With this easy recipe, you can bring the cozy flavors of autumn to your table and share them with family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying muffins for the first time, these pumpkin spice muffins are sure to become a seasonal favorite.
More Fall Baking Ideas
If you love these muffins, you might also enjoy trying:
- Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins: For a chocolate twist, try adding semisweet chocolate chips to your pumpkin batter.
- Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes: For a more cake-like texture, check out recipes with maple cream cheese frosting for extra indulgence.
- Apple Cinnamon Muffins: Swap pumpkin for applesauce and add extra cinnamon for a different autumn flavor.
Happy baking, and enjoy the flavors of fall!
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a44157120/pumpkin-chocolate-chip-muffins-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a8888/moist-pumpkin-spice-muffins-with-cream-cheese-frosting/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=723s6GkT4DY
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a66023366/pumpkin-spice-cupcakes-recipe/
- https://www.keyingredient.com/recipes/176140/moist-pumpkin-spice-muffins-from-the-pioneer-woman-cooks/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/a11183/my-favorite-pumpkin-recipes/
Similar Articles
Read full bio of medha deb
