Irresistibly Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Ready in 30 Minutes
When the crisp autumn air begins to rustle the fallen leaves, nothing warms the heart quite like baking something sweet and cozy. I discovered the magic of Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins on one of those overcast afternoons, where the scent of spices and pumpkin filled my kitchen and wrapped around me like a blanket. These muffins blend the nostalgic flavors of cinnamon rolls with the wholesome goodness of pumpkin, resulting in a treat thatโs not only perfect for breakfast but also a delightful afternoon indulgence.
In just under 30 minutes, you can fill your home with an inviting aroma while whipping up a batch that will rival any cafe creation. Topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze, theyโre sure to please friends, family, or even just yourself! Letโs dive into this easy recipe that promises to bring all the cozy feels straight to your table.
Why are Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins a must-try?
Irresistible aroma: Bake these muffins, and your kitchen will be filled with the warm scents of pumpkin and cinnamonโperfect for autumn!
Quick to make: Whip up a batch in just 30 minutes, letting you enjoy a cozy treat without hours in the kitchen.
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves a muffin, especially when itโs swirled with cinnamon goodness and topped with a sweet cream cheese glaze.
Versatile dessert: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon snack. These muffins are perfect anytime!
Vegetarian delight: Enjoy a delicious treat that fits perfectly within a vegetarian diet! Make it even more versatile with gluten-free options by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffin Ingredients
For the Muffin Batter
- Canned pumpkin puree โ Provides moisture and flavor. Use plain pumpkin puree; avoid pie filling as it is sweetened and spiced.
- Melted butter (ยฝ cup) โ Adds richness and moisture. Can substitute with vegetable oil.
- Granulated sugar (ยพ cup) โ For sweetness and texture.
- Large egg (1) โ Binds ingredients together and adds moisture.
- Vanilla extract (1 tsp) โ Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- All-purpose flour (1ยฝ cups) โ Provides structure. Can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Baking soda (1 tsp) โ Leavening agent to help muffins rise.
- Baking powder (1 tsp) โ Additional leavening to ensure fluffiness.
- Salt (ยฝ tsp) โ Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tsp) โ Adds warmth and spice to the muffins.
For the Cinnamon Swirl
- Melted butter (ยผ cup) โ Acts as a binder for the swirl mixture.
- Brown sugar (ยผ cup) โ Provides sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tsp) โ Boosts the cinnamon flavor in the swirl.
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
- Powdered sugar (ยฝ cup) โ Adds sweetness and structure to the glaze.
- Vanilla extract (ยฝ tsp) โ Enhances flavor in the glaze.
- Milk (2-3 tbsp) โ Adjusts consistency of the glaze; use more for a thinner glaze.
How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins
Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Prepare your muffin tin by greasing it or lining it with paper liners for easy removal.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin puree, melted butter, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until nice and smooth. In a separate bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
Prepare Cinnamon Swirl: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combinedโthis will be the heavenly swirl in your muffins.
Fill Muffin Tins: Spoon the muffin batter into each muffin cup, filling them about two-thirds full. Drizzle or swirl the cinnamon mixture on top of the batter and use a toothpick to create delicious swirls.
Bake: Pop the muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Theyโre done when a toothpick inserted comes out cleanโyour kitchen should smell divine!
Make Glaze: While the muffins are cooling, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and just enough milk to achieve your desired consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled muffins for a sweet finishing touch.
Optional: Sprinkle with chopped pecans for an added crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins?
These delightful muffins pair perfectly with your favorite beverages and sides, making for a cozy meal experience.
- Hot Coffee: A warm cup of coffee enhances the sweetness of the muffins while balancing the pumpkin spice flavors.
- Spiced Tea: Offer a warm, aromatic tea to complement the cinnamon notes, creating a comforting afternoon pause.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of fruits adds a bright, juicy contrast to the rich muffin, lightening each bite.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and berries alongside muffins creates a satisfying, textural breakfast delight.
- Cream Cheese Spread: For an extra indulgence, spread cream cheese on half of the muffin for a creamy contrast to the warm spice.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup brings additional sweetness and a touch of fall flavors, enhancing the experience.
- Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai blend seamlessly with the flavors of the muffin, creating a harmonious pairing.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the pumpkin theme with a homemade or cafรฉ-style pumpkin spice latte to accompany your treats.
- Nutty Granola: Serve alongside a small bowl of nutty granola for added crunch and to offer a wholesome texture contrast.
Storage Tips for 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 moist.
- Fridge: If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate the muffins in an airtight container for up to 5 days, but be aware they may lose some fluffiness.
- Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the muffins unfrosted in a single layer for up to 3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
- Reheating: To enjoy a warm muffin, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) for about 10 minutes. Drizzle with glaze just before serving for your delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are a fantastic option for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the muffin batter and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, which allows you to save time on busy mornings. Additionally, the cinnamon swirl mixture can be made ahead and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. To maintain the muffins’ delightful texture, avoid mixing the batter too much, as this can lead to denser muffins. When ready to bake, simply fill the muffin tins, swirl in the cinnamon mixture, and bake as directed. Your kitchen will be filled with warm, inviting aromas and youโll have moist, fluffy muffins to enjoy with minimal effort!
Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting twists that let your creativity shine in the kitchen!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk for regular milk in the glaze, and use coconut oil in place of butter for a deliciously rich flavor.
- Nutty Addition: Stir in ยฝ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the muffin batter for added crunch and earthy tones.
- Spice Boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of allspice to the batter for an extra layer of cozy warmth.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix in a handful of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a delightful contrast to the cinnamon and pumpkin flavors.
- Maple Glaze: Replace the vanilla in the glaze with maple extract for a uniquely sweet touch that complements the autumnal flavors beautifully.
- Soufflรฉ Style: Pour the batter into a small ramekin instead of a muffin tin for a fluffy pumpkin soufflรฉ that makes a beautiful dessert or breakfast.
- Savory Twist: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese into the batter for a unique, savory version that balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon swirl mixture for a surprising heat that complements the sweetness.
Experimenting with these variations will create personalized treats that are sure to delight!
Expert Tips for Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins
- Pumpkin Choice: Use plain canned pumpkin puree instead of pie filling to avoid extra spices and sugars that can alter the muffin’s flavor.
- Mixing Matters: Avoid overmixing the batter; a few lumps are fine. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins rather than the light and fluffy texture you’re aiming for with these Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins.
- Perfect Swirls: For the best cinnamon swirl, just gently swirl the mixture instead of fully combining it with the batter. This keeps the delightful cinnamon pockets intact!
- Storage Secrets: Store these muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or freeze them without glaze. Thaw and glaze them right before serving for a fresh taste.
- Glaze Consistency: Adjust the milk in your cream cheese glaze to achieve your preferred thicknessโmore milk for a thinner glaze and less for a thicker, richer finish.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe FAQs
What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely use plain canned pumpkin puree for these muffins! Avoid purchasing pumpkin pie filling, as it’s already sweetened and seasoned, which can alter the flavor and sweetness of your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins. Look for labels that indicate โ100% pure pumpkinโ for the best results.
How should I store my Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins?
You can store your muffins at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days in a tightly sealed container, though this may slightly affect their fluffiness. Just remember to let them cool completely before storing!
Can I freeze Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze these muffins for longer enjoyment! To do this, allow the muffins to cool fully, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as desired.
What if my batter is too thick or thin?
If your batter appears too thick, it may be that youโve measured your flour incorrectly. Carefully sift your flour before measuring or use the spoon and level method. You can add a splash of milk to nudge the consistency if it looks dry. If it’s too thin, sprinkle in a little more flour gradually until it reaches the desired thicknessโa thicker batter is better for those lovely crunchy tops.
Are these muffins vegetarian?
Yes, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are a vegetarian delight! They feature wholesome ingredients like canned pumpkin, butter, and eggs. For those following a vegan diet, you can substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based butter alternative. Just remember to adjust other ingredients accordingly!
Irresistibly Soft Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Ready in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Prepare your muffin tin by greasing it or lining it with paper liners for easy removal.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin puree, melted butter, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until nice and smooth. In a separate bowl, combine the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
- In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until well combinedโthis will be the heavenly swirl in your muffins.
- Spoon the muffin batter into each muffin cup, filling them about two-thirds full. Drizzle or swirl the cinnamon mixture on top of the batter and use a toothpick to create delicious swirls.
- Pop the muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Theyโre done when a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- While the muffins are cooling, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to achieve your desired consistency. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled muffins.
