Name: Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins That Will Brighten Your Day
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (Ensure it's plain pumpkin puree, not pie filling.); ½ cup melted butter (Can substitute with vegetable oil for a lighter option.); ¾ cup granulated sugar (Can reduce for a less sweet muffin.); 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1½ cups all-purpose flour (Can swap for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.); 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ cup melted butter; ¼ cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ cup powdered sugar (Adjust for desired sweetness.); ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 2–3 tablespoons milk (Adjusts consistency.)

As I whisked together the warm pumpkin puree and the fragrant spices, memories of cozy autumn mornings rushed back. There’s just something magical about those moments, especially when you’re indulging in the scrumptious delights of Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins! These delightful muffins capture the essence of fall with their soft texture and warm spices, making them perfect for breakfast or a delightful afternoon snack. Best of all, they come together in under 30 minutes and whip up with minimal effort! The creamy glaze on top adds just the right amount of sweetness, making them irresistible. Whether you're a busy home chef or someone longing for a taste of comfort food, these muffins are bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Are you ready to fill your home with those heartwarming autumn aromas? Let’s get baking!

Why are Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins a Must-Try?

Flavors of Fall: These muffins blend the rich taste of pumpkin with the warm spices of cinnamon, creating a comforting treat that evokes cozy autumn vibes.

Quick and Easy: In less than 30 minutes, you can enjoy freshly baked muffins—perfect for those busy mornings or spontaneous snack cravings.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether served at brunch or as a cozy afternoon treat, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are sure to impress your family and friends.

Versatile Options: Looking for dietary alternatives? You can easily swap in a gluten-free flour blend! Check out some Breakfast Egg Muffins to keep your mornings flavorful and stress-free.

Perfectly Sweet: Topped with a creamy glaze, each muffin is just the right amount of sweet, making them a delightful indulgence that's not overly rich.

Dive into this recipe and bring a bit of autumn magic into your kitchen!

Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffin Ingredients

• Discover the warm, delightful flavors!

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; can reduce 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 – Provides structure; can swap for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
1 teaspoon baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent for muffin rise.
1 teaspoon baking powder – Additional leavening ensures fluffiness.
½ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and that quintessential fall flavor.
For the Cinnamon Swirl
¼ cup melted butter – Adds richness and depth to the swirl.
¼ cup brown sugar – Brings moisture and a deeper flavor.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Complements the muffin's warm flavors perfectly.
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
½ cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the glaze; adjust for desired sweetness.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the glaze's flavor.
2–3 tablespoons milk – Adjusts the consistency of the glaze; add more for a thinner glaze.

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are sure to become a favorite in your home, filling your kitchen with comforting, fragrant autumn scents!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with liners. This step is crucial as it ensures your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins bake evenly, giving them a perfectly golden hue. Gather all your ingredients close by for a smooth baking experience, and prepare to fill your home with delightful fall aromas!

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. Whisk these ingredients together until they become a smooth and well-blended mixture. The pumpkin puree adds moisture and flavor, setting a warm base for your muffins, so take your time to ensure everything is well incorporated.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate 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 mixture provides the necessary structure for your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins, so ensure it is evenly mixed. Once combined, you’re ready to bring the two mixtures together for a harmonious blend.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add your dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, gently stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your muffins light and fluffy! The batter may be slightly lumpy; that’s perfectly fine. This step is vital in achieving that tender muffin texture, which will be beautifully enhanced by the warm spices.

Step 5: Prepare Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together ¼ cup of melted butter, ¼ cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This delicious cinnamon swirl adds delightful pockets of flavor to your muffins. Ensure it's well combined to create a gooey, delightful mixture that will elevate your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins to another level of deliciousness.

Step 6: Fill Muffin Tins
Scoop the muffin batter into your prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full. Add a spoonful of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top of each batter scoop. Use a toothpick or a knife to swirl gently through the batter, creating beautiful marbling. This step adds both visual appeal and flavor, ensuring every bite is a treat!

Step 7: Bake
Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes. Your muffins are ready when they turn a lovely golden color and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The mouth-watering aroma of pumpkin and cinnamon will fill your kitchen, creating excitement for the delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins on their way.

Step 8: Cool the Muffins
Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is essential for achieving the perfect texture and getting that wonderfully soft crumb, and it allows the rich flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 9: Make the Glaze
While your muffins cool, prepare the cream cheese glaze by whisking together ½ cup of powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2–3 tablespoons of milk. Adjust the milk quantity until you achieve your desired glaze consistency, and mix until completely smooth. This sweet topping will perfectly complement the flavors of your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins, enhancing their deliciousness!

Step 10: Drizzle and Serve
Once the muffins are completely cool, drizzle the cream cheese glaze generously over each muffin. The creamy, sweet topping will add a beautiful finishing touch to your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins. These delightful treats are now ready to enjoy, whether for breakfast or as a tasty afternoon snack!

Storage Tips for Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Room Temperature: Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft texture and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and sealed in a resealable bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, microwave frozen muffins for about 30 seconds or until warm, then drizzle with glaze just before serving for a fresh taste!
Glaze Storage: If you have leftover glaze, store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Rewhisk before using to restore its creamy consistency.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

These tender muffins will create a warm, inviting breakfast or snack experience when paired with complementary dishes and beverages.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture and comforting taste of mashed potatoes balance the warm spices of the muffins beautifully.
Spiced Chai Tea: This warm beverage enhances the flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon, creating a cozy drinking experience that pairs perfectly with the muffins.
Apple Butter: Slathering some homemade apple butter on a warm muffin adds a hint of sweetness and a lovely fruity layer that brightens up every bite.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: The creamy, tangy yogurt mixed with fresh fruits and granola offers a delightful contrast in texture and a refreshing complement to the muffins’ sweetness.
Warm Maple Syrup: Drizzling a bit of golden maple syrup over your muffin not only sweetens things up but also ties in perfectly with the autumnal flavors.
Pecan Pie Bars: For a sweet ending, serve these rich bars alongside the muffins, as their nutty flavor and caramel layers resonate with the pumpkin essence.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Swirl Wisely: Don’t overmix the cinnamon swirl with the batter—this helps maintain beautiful pockets of flavor in your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins.
Correct Measurements: Ensure you measure your flour accurately. Too much flour can lead to dense muffins, so fluff it up before scooping.
Cooling Time: Let muffins cool before glazing. This prevents the glaze from melting and allows the flavors to fully develop for that perfect bite.
Batch Baking: If you're making a larger batch, consider freezing unfrosted muffins. They keep well for later, preserving their delightful taste and texture!
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for delicious gluten-free Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins without sacrificing flavor!

Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Variations

Invite your creativity to shine by customizing these delightful muffins with a few simple twists!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious, gluten-free treat.
Dairy-Free: Swap the butter for coconut oil and use a dairy-free cream cheese for the glaze.
Less Sweet: Reduce the sugar by half for a less sweet muffin that still embraces all those cozy fall flavors.
Spice It Up: Experiment with nutmeg or allspice in addition to cinnamon for a more complex flavor profile.
Pumpkin Chocolate Swirl: Add chocolate chips into the batter or the cinnamon swirl to introduce a rich, decadent twist.
Pumpkin Squares: Use an 8x8 baking pan for pumpkin cinnamon roll squares that are easy to slice and serve.
Mini Muffins: Bake mini versions for bite-sized treats—perfect for sharing at gatherings or brunch.
Cream Cheese Filling: Inject a dollop of cream cheese filling into the center of each muffin before baking for an extra creamy surprise.

These variations not only cater to different dietary preferences but also keep the excitement alive in your kitchen! If you're in the mood for more breakfast inspiration, be sure to check out these delightful Breakfast Egg Muffins for your next culinary adventure! Embrace the season, and happy baking!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the wet ingredients and dry ingredients and refrigerate the combined batter for up to 24 hours in advance to save time on busy mornings. Additionally, the cinnamon swirl can be prepared and stored in an airtight container in the fridge, ensuring it remains fresh. When you're ready to bake, simply scoop the batter into the muffin tin, add the swirl, and bake directly from the refrigerator for just 20–25 minutes for warm, fluffy muffins. This makes it easy to enjoy the comforting flavors of fall without the stress of last-minute baking!

Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe FAQs

How do I choose a good pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When selecting pumpkin puree, look for plain canned pumpkin that contains only pumpkin puree, without added sugar or spices. This ensures that your muffins are made with the pure, rich flavor of pumpkin, not sweetened pumpkin pie filling, which could alter the taste and texture of your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins.

How should I store leftover muffins?
To keep your muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep them longer, I recommend wrapping the unfrosted muffins tightly in plastic wrap, placing them in a resealable bag, and freezing them for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy them later—just thaw and glaze before serving!

Can I freeze these muffins?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins, wait until they are completely cooled. Then, wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a resealable freezer bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply microwave a frozen muffin for about 30 seconds or until warmed through and drizzle with the glaze just before enjoying.

What if my muffins turn out dense?
If your muffins turn out denser than expected, it might be due to overmixing the batter or not measuring the flour correctly. For the perfect texture, mix just until combined. I also recommend fluffing your flour before scooping to avoid adding too much, which can result in a heavy muffin. Keep those tips in mind for your next baking adventure!

Are there any dietary considerations for pets?
It's best to avoid giving your pets any muffins, especially those containing ingredients like sugar and dairy from the glaze. If you're concerned about allergies or dietary restrictions, consult with your veterinarian before sharing human food with your furry friends. The Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are delicious, but they are meant for human enjoyment only!

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Very! To make these Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This ensures you get the delightful taste and texture of the muffins without the gluten, making them suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Enjoy the baking!