Why Make This Recipe
Spiced Pumpkin Muffins with Cream Cheese Icing are a delightful treat that captures the warm, cozy flavors of fall. These muffins are moist, flavorful, and topped with a creamy icing that takes them to the next level. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, they are sure to please everyone. Making these muffins is easy, and they fill your home with a comforting aroma that makes people feel welcome.
How to Make Spiced Pumpkin Muffins with Cream Cheese Icing
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups pumpkin puree
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon milk
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture and mix until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the muffins cool, prepare the cream cheese icing by creaming together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and milk until smooth.
- Once the muffins have cooled, frost them with the cream cheese icing and enjoy!
How to Serve Spiced Pumpkin Muffins with Cream Cheese Icing
Serve these muffins fresh from the oven, or after allowing them to cool slightly. They are great on their own or with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also serve them at cozy gatherings, parties, or family breakfasts. For an extra special touch, sprinkle some cinnamon on top of the cream cheese icing.
How to Store Spiced Pumpkin Muffins with Cream Cheese Icing
To keep your muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can store them in the fridge for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Simply place the iced muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They will last for up to three months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Spiced Pumpkin Muffins with Cream Cheese Icing
- Make sure your pumpkin puree is smooth for the best texture in the muffins.
- Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until combined to keep the muffins light and fluffy.
- Allow muffins to cool completely before icing to prevent the icing from melting.
- Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra flavor and texture.
Variation
You can easily adjust the spices in the muffins to suit your taste. Try adding ginger or cloves for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the icing.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?
A: Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just cook, puree, and strain it to get the right consistency.
Q: How do I know when the muffins are done?
A: Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they are done.
Q: Can I make the muffins without the cream cheese icing?
A: Absolutely! The muffins are delicious on their own, but the icing adds a nice touch if you want something extra.
