Print

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe

5.2 from 19 reviews

Delight in the comforting flavors of autumn with these Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins. Moist pumpkin muffins are swirled with a rich, creamy vanilla-infused cream cheese filling, creating a perfect balance of spice and sweetness. Ideal for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these muffins are easy to prepare and bring a festive touch to any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Muffin:

  • 1 ¾ cups all purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup vegetable oil, or melted and cooled butter
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Cream Cheese Swirl:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin pan with paper baking cups to prevent sticking and set aside for easy cleanup.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, pumpkin spice, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and spices for balanced flavor.
  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and vanilla extract until thoroughly mixed.
  4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually whisk the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined and no lumps remain. Avoid overmixing to keep muffins tender.
  5. Fill Muffin Cups: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tins, filling each about three-quarters full to allow room for rising.
  6. Prepare Cream Cheese Swirl: In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract, then beat until fully combined and creamy.
  7. Add Cream Cheese Topping: Place about 1 tablespoon of the cream cheese mixture on top of each muffin batter. Use a toothpick to gently swirl the cream cheese into the pumpkin batter, creating a marbled effect for a beautiful presentation.
  8. Bake Muffins: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the pumpkin section comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs attached.
  9. Cool and Serve: Let muffins cool in the pan for 10 minutes before serving warm, or allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Notes

  • You can substitute vegetable oil with melted butter for a richer flavor.
  • Ensure the cream cheese and egg yolk are at room temperature for a smoother cream cheese swirl.
  • Swirling with a toothpick is optional but enhances the visual appeal of the muffins.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.
  • These muffins are best enjoyed warm but can be reheated briefly in the microwave.

Nutrition

Keywords: pumpkin muffins, cream cheese swirl, autumn recipes, pumpkin spice, breakfast muffins, easy baking