As the leaves turn golden and a crisp breeze dances outside, there’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of freshly baked goods. These Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are my go-to recipe for cozy mornings or spontaneous afternoon snacks. Combining the sweet warmth of pumpkin and cinnamon, they create delightful treats that are irresistibly moist, and with under 30 minutes of baking time, your kitchen will soon fill with that comforting autumn aroma. What’s even better is that they come with a creamy glaze that adds just the right touch of sweetness, making them a hit with family and friends. Plus, they can easily be made gluten-free, allowing everyone to enjoy these seasonal marvels. Wouldn't you love to treat yourself to a bite of fall today?
Why are Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins a must-try?
Warmth and Comfort: You'll feel the essence of fall with every bite of these delightful muffins. Effortless Preparation: With a simple process that takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, it's perfect for busy mornings. Irresistibly Moist: Thanks to the pumpkin, these muffins boast a soft, fluffy texture that keeps you coming back. Flavorful Swirl: The cinnamon swirl elevates each muffin into a delightful treat, while the creamy glaze adds just the right amount of sweetness. Versatile Option: Feel free to indulge in gluten-free variations—everyone deserves a taste of these seasonal sensations! Whether enjoyed warm with a cup of coffee or as an afternoon snack, they are sure to impress, just like these Breakfast Egg Muffins.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffin Ingredients
For the Muffins
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree – Adds rich moisture and flavor; ensure it's plain pumpkin puree, not pie filling.
- ½ cup melted butter – Enriches texture; can substitute with vegetable oil for a lighter option.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar – Provides sweetness; you can reduce the amount for a less sweet muffin.
- 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together for structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour – Gives structure; can replace it with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent to help the muffins rise.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Adds extra fluffiness for the muffins.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and highlights flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Infuses warmth and that lovely fall flavor.
For the Cinnamon Swirl
- ¼ cup melted butter – Adds richness to the cinnamon swirl.
- ¼ cup brown sugar – Contributes moisture and depth of flavor to each bite.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Complements the flavor of the muffins.
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
- ½ cup powdered sugar – Provides sweetness; perfect for glazing.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Acts as a flavor enhancer in the glaze.
- 2–3 tablespoons milk – Adjusts the consistency of the glaze; add more for a thinner glaze.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), filling your kitchen with comforting warmth. Prepare a muffin tin by lining it with paper liners, which will prevent the muffins from sticking and make cleanup a breeze. Set the tin aside as you gather to mix together the pumpkin cinnamon roll muffin ingredients.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree, ½ cup of melted butter, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Use a whisk or spatula to blend these ingredients together until they are smooth and well incorporated. This mixture will serve as the flavorful foundation for your muffins' moist texture.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 1½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This dry mixture will help create structure in your muffins. Once combined, make a small well in the center to make it easier to mix with the wet ingredients in the next step.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a moist batter without any dry flour. The resulting batter should be thick and slightly lumpy, which is ideal for your pumpkin cinnamon roll muffins.
Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of melted butter, ¼ cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Stir until well blended, creating a rich and fragrant swirl that will elevate the flavor of your muffins. This mixture will add delightful pockets of sweet cinnamon goodness throughout.
Step 6: Fill Muffin Tins
Spoon the prepared muffin batter into the lined muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full. Next, add a dollop of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top of each muffin. Using a toothpick or skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter to create beautiful marbling while keeping defined pockets of cinnamon.
Step 7: Bake the Muffins
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You will know they are ready when the tops are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Enjoy the enticing aroma of freshly baked pumpkin cinnamon roll muffins filling your home as they bake!
Step 8: Cool the Muffins
Once the muffins are baked, remove the tin from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures they retain moisture while allowing the muffins to set perfectly.
Step 9: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2-3 tablespoons of milk until smooth and glossy. Adjust the milk quantity to reach your desired glaze consistency; a thicker glaze will stay on top, while a thinner one will drizzle down the sides of the muffins.
Step 10: Glaze and Serve
Once the pumpkin cinnamon roll muffins have cooled completely, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the tops in a sweeping motion. Allow the glaze to set for a moment before serving. These glazed muffins are now ready to be enjoyed warm, perfect for cozy mornings or a delightful afternoon snack!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are ideal for meal prep, saving you time on busy mornings! You can prepare the muffin batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, keeping it fresh and ready to bake. Additionally, the cinnamon swirl mixture can be made and stored in the fridge, ensuring all the flavors meld beautifully. If you'd like, you can even bake the muffins in advance and store them unfrosted in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze them for longer storage. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the muffins for a few minutes in the oven to restore their delightful softness and drizzle the cream cheese glaze just before serving for that fresh-baked touch.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Variations
Feel free to get creative with these muffins and tailor them to your taste preferences!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy a cozy treat.
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Dairy-Free: Replace melted butter with a non-dairy butter alternative and use almond or coconut milk for the glaze.
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Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch alongside the soft muffins.
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Spicy Twist: Mix in ½ teaspoon of nutmeg or allspice in addition to the cinnamon for a more robust flavor profile.
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Less Sweet: Omit the cream cheese glaze or reduce the sugar in the batter for a lighter muffin experience.
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Mini Muffins: Use mini muffin tins instead, baking for 12-15 minutes for adorable bite-sized treats perfect for gatherings!
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Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Squares: Bake in an 8x8 pan instead, and cut into squares for a different serving style that’s still delicious.
Try pairing these muffins with a warm cup of coffee or enjoy them as a delightful afternoon snack alongside a refreshing tea. You might also love indulging in other seasonal delights like Breakfast Egg Muffins for a well-rounded seasonal brunch!
Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins
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Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to maintain a tender texture. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins.
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Swirl with Care: When adding the cinnamon swirl, don’t overmix it with the muffin batter. This keeps those delightful pockets of cinnamon intact.
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Check Your Pumpkin: Always use plain canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which is sweetened and spiced differently.
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Baking Time: Keep an eye on the muffins during the last few minutes of baking. They can quickly go from perfect to overbaked.
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Cool Completely: Allow muffins to cool on a wire rack before drizzling with glaze—this prevents the glaze from melting into the muffins.
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Gluten-Free Option: For gluten-free pumpkin cinnamon roll muffins, simply replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
What to Serve with Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins
Enjoying these delightful muffins is just the beginning of your cozy autumn experience—let's build a full spread that complements every bite!
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture and subtle flavor contrast beautifully with the sweet muffins, making for a comforting meal.
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Spiced Apple Cider: The warm, spiced notes in the cider echo the flavors in the muffins, creating a harmonious beverage pairing to sip and savor.
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Maple-Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots drizzled with maple syrup harmonize perfectly with the pumpkin spice, adding freshness and color to your table.
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Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche filled with spinach and cheese provides a savory balance to the sweet muffins, ideal for a brunch spread.
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Fall Green Salad: A salad with mixed greens, candied pecans, and dried cranberries brightens up the plate while complementing the muffins' rich flavors.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm muffins with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat that highlights their sweetness and cinnamon swirl.
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Chai Latte: The spiced warmth of chai harmonizes beautifully, echoing the cinnamon notes in the muffins while providing a cozy drink option.
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Dark Chocolate Shavings: Sprinkling dark chocolate over the glaze adds both richness and a touch of sophistication—definite crowd-pleasers!
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Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the muffins, offering a delightful autumnal side.
How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins
Room Temperature: Keep muffins in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and ensure they stay moist.
Fridge: If you prefer longer storage, you can refrigerate the muffins, but they may dry out quicker. Consume within 4 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted muffins wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy your pumpkin cinnamon roll muffins, reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, adding the glaze just before serving for a fresh, delightful taste.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe FAQs
What kind of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely, it's important to use plain canned pumpkin puree for the best flavor and texture. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices that would alter the taste of your muffins.
How should I store my pumpkin cinnamon roll muffins?
You can store your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and moist. If you want to extend their life, refrigerate them, but consume within 4 days to avoid drying out.
Can I freeze pumpkin cinnamon roll muffins?
Very! To freeze your muffins, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, reheat them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
What should I do if my batter is too thick?
If you find your batter is too thick, it's often due to using too much flour. Gently fold in a little bit of milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a thick yet pourable consistency. Just remember, overmixing can lead to dense muffins!
Are these muffins safe for people with gluten allergies?
The pumpkin cinnamon roll muffins can easily be made gluten-free! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This ensures that everyone can enjoy these delightful treats without worry.
Delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins for Cozy Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a muffin tin by lining it with paper liners.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree, ½ cup of melted butter, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together 1½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined.
- In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of melted butter, ¼ cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
- Spoon the muffin batter into the lined muffin tin, adding a dollop of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top of each muffin.
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- In a small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2-3 tablespoons of milk until smooth.
- Once cooled, drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the muffins.
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