Looking for a delightful autumn treat that combines the warm flavors of pumpkin with a creamy cream cheese filling? These Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins are the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and comforting flavors in a single bite.
Anecdote or Story (optional): As the leaves start to change and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked pumpkin treats wafting through the house. These pumpkin muffins with a surprise cream cheese filling have become a favorite in my home, bringing joy and warmth on chilly mornings.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins
– Autumn Delight: A perfect balance of pumpkin spice and cream cheese goodness.
– Moist and Flavorful: Each bite is filled with a moist muffin, creamy filling, and crunchy streusel.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings or breakfast with friends and family.
– Simple Yet Impressive: Impress your guests with these bakery-style muffins made at home.
Ingredient Notes
– MUFFINS:
– 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 can Libby’s easy pumpkin pie mix (32 oz)
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup orange juice, apple juice, or water
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup dried fruit like cranberries, dates, currents, or raisins (optional)
– CREAM CHEESE FILLING:
– 8 oz cream cheese
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– STREUSEL TOPPING:
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 Tbsp brown sugar
– 2 Tbsp cold butter
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 2 Tbsp chopped nuts (optional)
How to Make Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line muffin tins with paper cups.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
Combine flour, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix pumpkin pie mix, oil, juice or water, and eggs.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and stir until just moistened.
Step 5: Add Fruit
Fold in the dried fruit if desired.
Step 6: Fill Muffin Papers
Spoon the batter into the muffin papers, filling halfway.
Step 7: Make Filling
Combine cream cheese, egg, and vanilla for the filling. Transfer to a piping bag and fill each muffin.
Step 8: Prepare Streusel
Mix all streusel ingredients until combined. Sprinkle over muffins.
Step 9: Bake and Enjoy
Bake for about 15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool before serving.
Storage Options
For best results, store these muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage and reheat in the oven for a freshly baked taste.
Variations and Substitutions
– Sweet Twist: Add chocolate chips to the muffin batter for a chocolaty surprise.
– Nutty Flavor: Replace the chopped nuts in the streusel with almonds or walnuts.
– Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour to make these muffins suitable for a gluten-free diet.
– Spiced Streusel: Increase the cinnamon and add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves to the streusel topping.
What to Serve With Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins
– Hot Coffee or Tea: Warm beverages complement the cozy flavors of these muffins.
– Fruit Salad: A refreshing side of fresh fruit adds a light touch to the meal.
– Yogurt Parfait: Pair the muffin with a creamy yogurt parfait for a balanced breakfast.
– Whipped Cream: Indulge in a dollop of whipped cream on top for added sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned pumpkin instead of pumpkin pie mix?
Absolutely! Simply add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to give your muffins that warm fall flavor.
Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the muffins ahead of time and refrigerate them. Rewarm in the oven before serving for the best taste and texture.
Can I freeze the muffins?
These muffins freeze well. Once cooled, place them in a freezer-safe container and label with the date. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Can I substitute the cream cheese filling with another flavor?
Certainly! Experiment with different fillings like chocolate cream cheese, raspberry compote, or even a spiced apple filling for a unique twist.
After making these Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins, expect a delightful sensory experience. The warm aroma of pumpkin spice combined with the creamy filling will tantalize your taste buds, making every bite a comforting and satisfying treat. Share these muffins with loved ones and watch them delight in the perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins
Equipment
- Muffin Tins
- Mixer
- Piping Bag
Ingredients
Muffins
- 3 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 cups pumpkin puree
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 2/3 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs room temperature
Cream Cheese Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Streusel Topping
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp butter cold and cubed
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F and line muffin tins with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, baking soda, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, oil, and eggs until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- For the cream cheese filling, beat cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until creamy.
- For the streusel topping, mix flour, brown sugar, and butter until crumbly.
- Fill muffin tins halfway with batter, pipe a small amount of cream cheese filling in the center, and top with remaining batter. Sprinkle with streusel topping.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow to cool before serving.