Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe

If you’re craving something that perfectly combines the cozy warmth of fall spices with the soft, tender delight of freshly baked treats, look no further than these Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins. Bursting with the rich flavor of pumpkin and the irresistible swirl of cinnamon sugar, these muffins feel like a hug in every bite. They’re moist, fluffy, and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze that makes them utterly addictive. Whether it’s breakfast, snack time, or a sweet treat after dinner, Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are sure to become your new favorite comfort food.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are thoughtfully chosen to create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures in your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins. Each one plays a crucial role, from the moist pumpkin puree to the spicy cinnamon twist and the creamy glaze that finishes everything off beautifully.

• Pumpkin puree: Adds moisture, vibrant color, and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor essential for fall-inspired baking.
• Melted butter (or vegetable oil): Keeps the muffins tender and rich with a buttery undertone.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter just right without overpowering the spices.
• Large egg: Helps bind the ingredients and contributes to a fluffy texture.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors with its mellow warmth.
• All-purpose flour: Forms the base structure for perfectly soft muffins.
• Baking soda and baking powder: Work together to create a light, airy crumb.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and boosts overall flavor.
• Ground cinnamon: Provides that classic cinnamon roll spice that makes these muffins special.
• Brown sugar: Used in the cinnamon swirl for a deep caramel sweetness.
• Cream cheese glaze ingredients (powdered sugar, vanilla extract, milk): Combine to create a smooth, tangy finishing touch that perfectly complements the pumpkin and cinnamon.

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Step 1: Prepare your oven and muffin tin

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or generously spray it with nonstick spray—this little prep step will ensure your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins come out cleanly and maintain their shape beautifully.

Step 2: Mix wet ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, melted butter, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This blend not only builds the flavor foundation but also ensures your muffins stay moist and tender.

Step 3: Combine dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. This dry mixture is what gives the muffins their structure and that warm, cozy spice profile.

Step 4: Gently fold wet and dry ingredients

Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and gently fold them together just until combined. Overmixing here can cause the muffins to turn dense, so a light hand keeps them airy and soft—perfect for that melt-in-your-mouth feeling.

Step 5: Prepare the cinnamon swirl

Mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl to make the irresistible cinnamon swirl that will be layered inside your muffins. This little swirl is the star that transforms your muffins into pumpkin cinnamon roll magic.

Step 6: Assemble the muffins

Fill each muffin cup halfway with the pumpkin batter, then spoon a generous dollop of the cinnamon swirl on top. Cover the cinnamon with more batter until the cups are nearly full. Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the cinnamon into the batter gently, creating beautiful cinnamon pockets throughout.

Step 7: Bake until golden

Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The muffins are ready when they’re springy to the touch, the tops turn a lovely golden color, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Finish with cream cheese glaze

While the muffins cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth to create a luscious cream cheese glaze. Drizzle this glaze over the warm Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins for an extra layer of sweet and tangy delight that will have everyone reaching for a second.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Garnishes

While the glaze adds a beautiful shine and flavor, you can elevate your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins even more by sprinkling chopped pecans or a dusting of cinnamon on top. A light sprinkle of powdered sugar also adds an elegant, snowy finish perfect for sharing with guests.

Side Dishes

These muffins are wonderful on their own but pair beautifully with a warm cup of coffee, chai tea, or hot apple cider. For a more substantial breakfast, serve alongside creamy scrambled eggs or a simple spinach salad to balance sweetness with savory freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins in a rustic basket lined with a cozy cloth napkin, perfect for brunch gatherings. Or arrange them on a festive platter garnished with fresh pumpkin slices, cinnamon sticks, and autumn leaves for a stunning seasonal centerpiece that will impress every guest.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep leftover Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them to maintain freshness for up to five days while preserving their soft texture.

Freezing

Want to enjoy these muffins on a busy morning? Freeze cooled Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. This way, you can have a delicious treat ready whenever a pumpkin craving hits.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm your muffin in the microwave for about 20 seconds or pop it in a toaster oven for a few minutes until warmed through and softly gooey again. If you’ve frozen the muffins, let them thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes before reheating for best results.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Absolutely! If using fresh pumpkin, cook and puree it until smooth, then measure to get one cup. Keep in mind fresh pumpkin may have a slightly different moisture content, but it will still give your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins a fresh, homemade flavor.

Is it okay to substitute the butter with oil?

Yes, vegetable oil can be used instead of butter and will keep your muffins moist. However, butter adds richness and depth of flavor that complements the pumpkin and spices perfectly, so if possible, I recommend sticking with butter for the best taste.

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but choose one designed for baking to ensure the texture stays tender. You might need to adjust baking time slightly and be careful not to overmix when using gluten-free flours.

Do these muffins freeze well with the cream cheese glaze already applied?

For best results, freeze the muffins without the glaze. Freeze muffins first, then thaw and add the glaze just before serving to keep the glaze fresh, shiny, and perfectly smooth.

How spicy are these Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins?

They have a gentle warmth from cinnamon but are not overly spicy. You can easily adjust the amount of cinnamon if you prefer a milder or stronger cinnamon flavor, making these muffins suitable for all taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

If you haven’t yet given Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins a try, you’re in for a treat that’s as comforting as it is delicious. These muffins bring together the best of fall flavors with that classic cinnamon roll feel, all in a conveniently handheld package. Whip up a batch for your next brunch or cozy afternoon snack—you may just discover your new favorite pumpkin recipe to enjoy year after year!

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