Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin purée, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract. Stir these wet ingredients until smooth.
- Gently add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring just until no dry flour remains; don’t overdo it!
- Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full.
- Bake in the oven for about 20 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Best ways to enjoy it
For a delightful serving experience, enjoy your pumpkin muffins fresh from the oven with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or a spicy chai latte to enhance their flavors. If you’re hosting a brunch, consider them alongside a fruit salad or a cheese platter for a well-rounded offering.
Keeping leftovers fresh
To ensure your muffin goodness lasts, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them! Wrap each muffin in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply warm them in the microwave or let them thaw at room temperature.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure your pumpkin purée is pure and not pie filling, which contains extra sugars and spices.
- Mix your dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of the baking soda and spices.
- For even fluffier muffins, avoid over-mixing the batter; stir just until combined.
- Consider adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for a personalized twist!
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few ways to remix the basic recipe! You can try adding different spices like ginger or cardamom for a unique flavor profile. Top the muffins with a streusel topping or a dollop of cream cheese frosting for an inspired dessert twist. For a healthier muffin, replace half of the sugar with mashed bananas, and consider tossing in some flaxseeds for added nutrition.
Your questions answered
What’s the prep time for these muffins?
You can prepare the batter in about 15-20 minutes. Baking will take around 20-22 minutes, making this a quick treat.
Can I substitute pumpkin purée?
Yes! You can use applesauce or even mashed bananas if you’re looking for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful of the moisture they add.
How do I know when the muffins are done baking?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. If there’s wet batter on the toothpick, give the muffins a few more minutes in the oven.
How should I store the muffins for freshness?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing!
