Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling
Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling are the perfect treat for any fall occasion. These delightful muffins combine the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices with a rich, creamy center. Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, they will impress family and friends alike. With their moist texture and delicious topping, these muffins are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The blend of pumpkin, spices, and cream cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that captures the essence of fall.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any gathering; these muffins fit any occasion.
- Moist and Delicious: The cream cheese filling ensures each muffin is soft and delectable.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore these tasty pumpkin spice muffins.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your pumpkin spice muffins with cream cheese filling, gather the essential tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Muffin tin
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Muffin tin: This is essential for shaping your muffins perfectly. A good muffin tin ensures even baking.
- Electric mixer: Makes blending ingredients easy, especially when mixing the cream cheese filling until smooth.
Ingredients
For the Muffins
- 1 cup pecans (chopped)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 3 teaspoons corn syrup
- ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ground
- 2 ½ cups all purpose flour
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin pie spice
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned, unsweetened)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar (or icing sugar)
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking for your muffins.
Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tin
Grease your muffin tin or line it with paper liners. This helps in removing the muffins easily once baked.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 cups sugar
2 tablespoons pumpkin pie spice
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
Whisk together until well blended.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix:
1 cup pumpkin puree
½ cup melted butter
2 large eggs
¼ cup milk
3 teaspoons corn syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Stir until combined.
Step 5: Create the Batter
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined—do not overmix!
Step 6: Prepare Cream Cheese Filling
In a separate bowl, beat together:
4 ounces room temperature cream cheese
⅓ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix until smooth.
Step 7: Assemble Muffins
Fill each muffin cavity halfway with batter. Add a spoonful of cream cheese filling on top of this layer. Then cover with more batter until almost full.
Step 8: Top with Pecans
Sprinkle chopped pecans over each muffin before baking for added crunch.
Step 9: Bake
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Allow muffins to cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling
Pumpkin spice muffins with cream cheese filling are delicious and versatile. These muffins can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert.
For Breakfast
- Serve warm with butter for a comforting start to your day.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning routine.
As a Snack
- Enjoy them plain or topped with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an afternoon treat.
- Slice them in half and spread some jam for added flavor.
For Dessert
- Pair the muffins with vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert option.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top for a sweet finish.
At Gatherings
- Arrange on a platter at brunches or parties to impress your guests.
- Serve alongside other fall-themed treats for a seasonal touch.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling
To achieve the best pumpkin spice muffins with cream cheese filling, consider these helpful tips.
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smoother batter and enhances the texture of your muffins.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the muffins fluffy and tender.
- Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when they are done baking.
- Cool before serving: Let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to maintain their shape.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling
Pumpkin spice muffins pair well with several side dishes that complement their sweet and spicy flavors. Here are some great options to consider:
- Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai enhance the flavors of the muffins perfectly.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the muffins.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt and granola for a delicious contrast in texture and flavor.
- Maple Bacon: The savory sweetness of maple bacon pairs beautifully with pumpkin spice.
- Cheese Board: Include cream cheese or goat cheese to add a tangy flavor that contrasts well.
- Hot Chocolate: A rich cup of hot chocolate makes for a cozy pairing on chilly days.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling can be delightful, but avoiding common mistakes ensures perfect results.
- Using cold cream cheese: Starting with cold cream cheese makes it hard to mix smoothly. Always let it reach room temperature before using.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense muffins. Stir until just combined for a lighter texture.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can alter the recipe’s outcome. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Skipping the topping: The pecan topping enhances flavor and texture. Don’t skip it for that extra crunch!
- Ignoring oven temperature: Ovens can vary in temperature. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking conditions.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store muffins in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling
- Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best flavor.
Reheating Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm muffins for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one muffin at a time for 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place muffins in a skillet on low heat, covering until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling.
Can I use fresh pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned. Just ensure it’s well-drained.
How do I know when my muffins are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are ready!
Can I substitute the cream cheese filling?
Absolutely! You can use ricotta or mascarpone cheese as alternatives.
What can I add to enhance flavor?
Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried cranberries for added texture and taste.
Final Thoughts
These Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling are perfect for fall gatherings or cozy weekends at home. Their moist texture and warm spices make them irresistible. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite nuts or spices!
Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 muffins 1x
Description
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of fall with these Pumpkin Spice Muffins filled with a luscious cream cheese center. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, these muffins boast a delightful combination of warm pumpkin and spice notes complemented by a rich, creamy filling. Their moist texture and crunchy pecan topping make them an instant favorite at any gathering. Easy to prepare and versatile enough for various occasions, these muffins are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 2 cups sugar
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a muffin tin.
- In one bowl, mix together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients: pumpkin puree, melted butter, eggs, milk, corn syrup, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients until just combined.
- For the cream cheese filling, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Fill each muffin cavity halfway with batter, add a spoonful of cream cheese filling on top, then cover with more batter.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans on top of each muffin before baking for added crunch.
- Bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Desserts
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin (85g)
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 185mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
