The scent of warm cinnamon swirls mixed with an unmistakable hint of pumpkin spice wafts through my kitchen as I pull these Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins from the oven. They’re the perfect embodiment of fall, with a soft, tender texture that beckons you to start your day—or indulge in a cozy afternoon snack. What I love most about these muffins is how quick they are to whip up; you can have them ready in under 30 minutes, making homemade deliciousness effortlessly achievable. Plus, the delightful cream cheese glaze takes them to a whole new level of indulgence. Are you ready to fill your home with that warm, inviting aroma? Let’s dive into this comforting recipe!
Why Are These Muffins So Special?
Irresistible Combination: Each bite is a delightful fusion of pumpkin spice and cinnamon, capturing the essence of cozy fall flavors.
Quick to Make: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy these treats without spending hours in the kitchen!
Glorious Texture: The soft, tender crumb perfectly mirrors the comforting texture of classic cinnamon rolls—nobody can resist!
Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or holiday gatherings, these muffins are bound to impress. If you loved this recipe, you might also want to check out our Healthy Pumpkin Oat cookies for another quick fall treat!
Elevated Sweetness: The creamy glaze adds an indulgent finish, transforming your muffins into a gourmet experience.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffin Ingredients
For the Muffin Batter
• Canned Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and a rich pumpkin flavor; remember to use plain pumpkin puree, not sweetened pie filling.
• Melted Butter (or Vegetable Oil) – Adds richness and moisture; can substitute with vegetable oil for a lighter option.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the muffins and enhances the flavor.
• Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds structure.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor, giving your muffins a delightful taste.
• All-Purpose Flour – Forms the base structure; for a gluten-free option, substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to help the muffins rise.
• Baking Powder – Ensures a light texture alongside the baking soda.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; don’t skip this!
• Ground Cinnamon – Provides the hallmark flavor of pumpkin spice—essential for that cozy feel.
For the Cinnamon Swirl
• Melted Butter – Creates the perfect swirl texture to elevate your muffins.
• Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture to the filling, enhancing the flavor profile.
For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze for that indulgent finish.
• Milk – Adjusts glaze consistency; use more for a thinner glaze that drizzles beautifully.
These Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are sure to become a staple in your fall baking rotation!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins
Step 1: Prep Muffin Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree, 1/4 cup of melted butter, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-blended, showcasing that lovely pumpkin hue. This forms a fragrant, rich base for your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. This blend of dry ingredients ensures a light, fluffy muffin texture. Slowly add it to the wet ingredients in your first bowl, mixing gently until just combined without overmixing.
Step 3: Prepare Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of melted butter, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. This creates a sweet, sticky cinnamon swirl mixture that will elevate your muffins. Set it aside; the delightful aroma will soon waft through your kitchen as you prepare to fill your muffin liners.
Step 4: Fill Muffin Liners
Line a 12-cup muffin pan with liners and spoon half of the muffin batter into each liner, filling them about halfway. Drizzle a generous spoonful of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter, creating a sweet pocket of flavor. Top with the remaining batter to fill the liners, ensuring an even distribution. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture, creating beautiful patterns.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the muffins for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re ready when the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The scent of pumpkin and cinnamon will have your mouth watering as they bake to perfection.
Step 6: Make Glaze
While the muffins cool in the pan, prepare the glaze by whisking together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of milk in a bowl. Adjust the milk to achieve your desired glaze consistency, ensuring it’s smooth and spreadable. This creamy glaze will be the heavenly finish for your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins.
Step 7: Glaze Muffins
Once the muffins have cooled for about 10 minutes, gently remove them from the pan and transfer them to a wire rack. Drizzle the prepared glaze generously over the cooled muffins, allowing it to cascade down the sides. This final touch adds a sweet creaminess that perfectly complements the pumpkin spice flavors.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins
Pair these muffins with delightful companions to create a comforting, satisfying meal experience.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture complements the sweet muffins wonderfully, offering a savory contrast.
- Spiced Apple Cider: Warm, spiced cider enhances the pumpkin flavors, perfect for cozy autumn gatherings.
- Maple Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a savory crunch, balancing the sweetness of the muffins with its smoky flavor.
- Savory Overnight Oats: A hearty bowl of oats with nuts and spices offers a healthy, filling breakfast option alongside the muffins.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, refreshing fruits like apples and pears provide a refreshing contrast to the rich muffins.
- Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of the muffins turns them into an elegant dessert, enhancing their indulgent nature.
- Coffee or Chai Latte: A warm cup of spiced coffee or chai complements the flavors beautifully while enriching your cozy experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream beside the muffins for a delightful dessert combo that melts in your mouth.
These pairings not only highlight the deliciousness of the Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins but also ensure a memorable gathering.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Variations
Feel free to play with these delicious ideas to truly make these muffins your own!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend; enjoy the same wonderful texture without the gluten.
- Dairy-Free: Swap out the butter and milk for coconut oil and almond milk for a plant-based version that’s just as delightful.
- Extra Spice: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the batter for a warm and spicy kick that will awaken your senses.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for an extra layer of flavor and texture. The nuttiness pairs beautifully with the pumpkin.
- Citrus Zest: Incorporate a tablespoon of orange or lemon zest into the glaze to brighten up the flavor profile and add a hint of freshness.
- Mini Muffins: For bite-sized treats, bake in mini muffin tins, adjusting the baking time to about 12 minutes. Perfect for sharing or snacking!
- Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle cinnamon-sugar on top of the batter for an extra sweet crunch that compliments the creamy glaze.
- Cream Cheese Center: Add a dollop of softened cream cheese to the center of each muffin for a delightful surprise that mimics classic cinnamon rolls.
If you enjoyed these Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins, you might also love our Thick Chewy Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies to satisfy your sweet cravings!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are fantastic for meal prep, saving you valuable time during busy mornings! You can prepare the muffin batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. To do this, simply mix all the wet and dry ingredients, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Additionally, you can make the cinnamon swirl mixture ahead and keep it refrigerated as well. When you’re ready to bake, spoon the batter into the muffin liners and add the cinnamon swirl before baking as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, delicious muffins that taste just as delightful with minimal effort, perfect for your fall mornings!
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins
Room Temperature: Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and delicious.
Fridge: If you prefer them chilled, these muffins can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days; just be sure to wrap them well to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted muffins in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.
Reheating: To reheat, pop them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until warm, ensuring your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins stay moist and fluffy!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins
- Choose the Right Pumpkin: Use plain pumpkin puree instead of sweetened pie filling to ensure the correct flavor and sweetness level in your muffins.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently combine ingredients to maintain a light texture. Overmixing will lead to dense muffins, not the fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins you desire.
- Swirl with Care: When creating the cinnamon swirl, drizzle it carefully and swirl gently; this technique helps maintain distinct pockets of flavor.
- Adjust Baking Times: For mini muffins, reduce the baking time to about 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Using fresh spices and quality butter can enhance the overall flavor and aroma of your muffins—little details make a big difference!
Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin should I use?
Absolutely! It’s best to use plain canned pumpkin puree for this recipe. Avoid using sweetened pie filling, as it alters the flavor and sweetness of your muffins, and could lead to a baked good that’s too sweet.
How should I store my muffins?
You can keep the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to extend their freshness, they can also be refrigerated for up to 5 days—just make sure they’re wrapped well to prevent them from drying out!
Can I freeze these muffins?
Very! For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted muffins in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave them on low for 20-30 seconds until warm.
What should I do if the muffins come out dense?
If your muffins turn out dense, the likely culprit is overmixing your batter. To prevent this, combine the wet and dry ingredients just until no dry flour remains; a few lumps are perfectly fine! Also, double-check the freshness of your baking soda and powder for optimal rise.
Are these muffins suitable for pets?
While these muffins are delicious for us, they contain ingredients like sugar and spices that can upset a pet’s stomach. It’s best to keep these treats for humans only—make sure your furry friends enjoy their own special treats instead!
Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just be mindful to mix gently, as gluten-free flour can sometimes yield denser results if overmixed. Enjoy your gluten-free Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins!
Irresistibly Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, melted butter, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Add to wet ingredients, mixing gently.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon for the swirl. Set aside.
- Line muffin pan with liners, fill half with muffin batter, drizzle cinnamon swirl mixture, then top with remaining batter. Swirl with a knife.
- Preheat oven to 350°F and bake muffins for 20-25 minutes until tops are golden brown.
- While cooling, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk for the glaze. Adjust milk for consistency.
- Once cooled, remove muffins from pan and drizzle glaze over muffins.
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