The first time I made Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins, the warm, spiced aroma of pumpkin and cream cheese filled my kitchen and instantly turned it into a cozy haven. Each bite combines the velvety tang of cream cheese with the sweet, earthy flavors of pumpkin, perfectly balanced by warm spices.
These muffins are more than just a treat—they’re a seasonal celebration that has become a staple in my home, ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful snack.
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins Recipe
- Scrumptious Swirl: The decadent cream cheese swirl is as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
- Perfectly Fluffy: These muffins bake up light, airy, and moist every time.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, they’re easy to whip up on a whim.
- Versatile Treat: Great for mornings, mid-afternoon snacks, or even as a dessert.
Ingredient Notes
- Dry Ingredients: Baking soda, all-purpose flour, pumpkin pie spice, salt.
- Wet Ingredients: Pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, large eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, large egg yolk.
How to Make Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins
Step 1: Prepare the Muffin Tin
Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Add the eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Step 4: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until the batter is just combined.
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Liners
Divide the batter evenly among the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Swirl
In a small bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk until smooth.
Step 7: Swirl and Bake
Spoon a dollop of the cream cheese mixture onto each muffin and use a toothpick to gently swirl it into the batter. Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Storage Options
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Freezer: Wrap muffins individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave.
Variations and Substitutions
- Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in semi-sweet or white chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
- Try Sweet Potato: Substitute pumpkin puree with sweet potato puree for a subtle flavor change.
- Incorporate Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter for extra crunch.
- Spice it Up: Add a dash of nutmeg or cloves for a more complex spice profile.
What to Serve With Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins
- Hot Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage complements the muffins’ cozy flavors.
- Fresh Fruits: A side of mixed berries adds a refreshing contrast.
- Whipped Cream or Yogurt: Dollop on top for added creaminess.
- Drizzle of Honey or Maple Syrup: Elevates the sweetness and creates a dessert-like feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins?
Yes, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
How can I make mini muffins?
Use a mini muffin tin and reduce the baking time to about 12-15 minutes.
Do I need to refrigerate these muffins?
Since they contain cream cheese, it’s best to store them in the fridge if not consumed within a day.
Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
The result is a batch of fluffy, golden muffins swirled with creamy, tangy filling that perfectly balances the warm spices of pumpkin. Each muffin is a cozy, fall-inspired treat that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins
Ingredients
Muffin Batter
- Baking Soda
- Pumpkin Puree
- Brown Sugar
- 2 Large Eggs
- 2 tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice
- 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1 3/4 cups All-purpose Flour
- 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
Cream Cheese Swirl
- 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- Large Egg Yolk
- 8 oz Softened Cream Cheese
- 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Muffin Tin
- Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
- Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
- Step 5: Fill Muffin Liners
- Step 6: Make Cream Cheese Swirl
- Step 7: Swirl and Bake
- Step 8: Cooling