Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling

Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling are the ultimate treat for fall. These muffins are moist, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy gathering or a simple afternoon snack. With their rich cream cheese center and delightful pecan topping, they stand out from your average muffin. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or just craving something sweet, these pumpkin muffins are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, spices, and cream cheese makes for a rich and comforting flavor profile.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions, these muffins come together quickly, making them perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a weekend brunch, these muffins fit right in.
• Moist Texture: The addition of cream cheese filling ensures that each muffin is packed with moisture and richness.
• Customizable Topping: Feel free to adjust the pecan topping or even add a glaze for extra sweetness.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into baking your pumpkin spice muffins with cream cheese filling, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tin
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: Essential for shaping your muffins perfectly. It ensures even baking and helps achieve that desirable dome shape.
• Electric mixer: Makes it easy to combine ingredients thoroughly, especially when mixing the cream cheese filling.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. They ensure every ingredient is just right.

Ingredients

For the Muffins

• 1 cup pecans (chopped)
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups sugar
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin pie spice
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned, unsweetened)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Filling

• 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
• ⅓ cup powdered sugar (or icing sugar)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 3 teaspoons corn syrup
• ½ cup brown sugar (packed)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ground

How to Make Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Muffin Tin

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your muffin tin or line it with paper liners.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a mixing bowl, beat together the room temperature cream cheese, powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter with the pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, and remaining vanilla extract. Stir until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Fill Muffin Tins

Spoon about half of the batter into each muffin cup. Add a dollop of cream cheese filling on top of this layer of batter. Cover with remaining batter until each muffin cup is about two-thirds full.

Step 7: Prepare Topping

In a small bowl, mix together chopped pecans, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, corn syrup, and granulated sugar. Sprinkle this mixture generously over each filled muffin cup.

Step 8: Bake

Place in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool

Once baked, remove from oven and allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your delicious pumpkin spice muffins with cream cheese filling!

How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling

Pumpkin spice muffins with cream cheese filling are perfect for any occasion. They are delightful as a snack or dessert and can be served in various ways to enhance their flavor and presentation.

With a Warm Beverage

• Coffee: Pair your muffins with a hot cup of coffee for a cozy morning treat.
• Chai Tea: The spices in chai complement the flavors of the muffins beautifully.
• Hot Chocolate: A rich hot chocolate makes a sweet combination for dessert.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cheese Board: Include your muffins on a cheese board with assorted cheeses and fruits for an elegant touch.
• Mini Desserts: Serve alongside mini desserts like tartlets or brownies for a variety of options.

With Toppings

• Cream Cheese Frosting: Drizzle some extra cream cheese frosting on top for added sweetness.
• Maple Syrup: A light drizzle of maple syrup enhances the fall flavors.

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How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling

To make sure your pumpkin spice muffins with cream cheese filling turn out perfectly, follow these helpful tips.

• Preheat Oven Properly: Ensure the oven is fully preheated before baking to achieve even cooking.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature eggs and cream cheese for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix just until combined to keep the muffins light and fluffy.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices will enhance the flavor profile significantly.
• Check Doneness Early: Start checking your muffins a few minutes before the suggested baking time to prevent overbaking.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling

These pumpkin spice muffins pair well with several side dishes that complement their rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances the sweetness of the muffins perfectly.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and berries adds texture and creaminess.
3. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts provide crunch and an extra layer of flavor.
4. Apple Slices with Caramel Dip: The crispness of apples paired with sweet caramel creates a delightful contrast.
5. Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars offer a chewy texture that pairs well with the softness of the muffins.
6. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: These chips add crunchiness alongside sweetness, making them an excellent pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin spice muffins with cream cheese filling can be a fun experience, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using Cold Cream Cheese: Always use room temperature cream cheese for the filling. Cold cream cheese can lead to lumps and an uneven texture.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the muffins dense rather than fluffy.
• Skipping the Pecan Topping: Don’t skip the pecan topping! It adds crunch and enhances flavor. Make sure to sprinkle it generously before baking.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use dry measuring cups for flour and sugar. Inaccurate measurements can ruin the texture of your muffins.
• Ignoring Baking Time: Keep an eye on your muffins as they bake. Oven temperatures vary, and overbaking can lead to dry muffins.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store pumpkin spice muffins with cream cheese filling in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling

• Place cooled muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Pumpkin Spice Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat muffins for about 10–15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Microwave each muffin for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place muffins in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making these delicious pumpkin spice muffins with cream cheese filling, you’re not alone!

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

You can use fresh pumpkin puree, but make sure it is well cooked and drained of excess moisture.

How do I know when my muffins are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are ready!

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding chocolate chips, cranberries, or walnuts for additional taste and texture.

Final Thoughts

Pumpkin spice muffins with cream cheese filling are perfect for fall gatherings or cozy mornings at home. Their delightful flavors and moist texture make them irresistible. Feel free to customize with different nuts or spices to make them your own!