Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

Soft and moist, Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins are the perfect treat for any occasion. These delightful muffins combine the rich flavor of pumpkin with warm spices and a sweet crumb topping, making them ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, you’ll love how quickly you can whip up a batch of these delicious treats.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create these muffins without stress.
• Flavorful: The combination of pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice results in a rich, comforting flavor that’s perfect for fall.
• Versatile: Enjoy them for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or served warm as a dessert.
• Perfectly Moist: Thanks to the addition of oil and pumpkin puree, these muffins stay soft and tender for days.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to personalize your muffins!

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience seamless, gather the essential kitchen tools.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Muffin pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fork

Why These Tools Matter

• Muffin pan: Ensures uniform baking and shapes your muffins perfectly.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps keep wet and dry ingredients separate before combining.
• Whisk: A must-have for thoroughly mixing ingredients to achieve a smooth batter.

Ingredients

Soft and moist pumpkin crumb cake muffins with pumpkin pie spice and maple icing topping.

Ingredients:
– 1 and 3/4 cups (219g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon store-bought or homemade pumpkin pie spice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) canola or vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar
– 1 and 1/2 cups (340g) canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/4 cup (60ml) milk, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup (94g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) packed light or dark brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon store-bought or homemade pumpkin pie spice
– 6 Tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 and 1/2 cups (180g) confectioners’ sugar
– 2 Tablespoons (30ml) pure maple syrup
– 2 Tablespoons (30ml) milk

How to Make Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Spray a 12-count muffin pan with nonstick spray or line it with cupcake liners. Since this recipe makes 15 muffins, prepare a second muffin pan in the same manner. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking soda
3. Ground cinnamon
4. Pumpkin pie spice
5. Salt

Ensure that all ingredients are thoroughly combined before setting aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. Canola oil
2. Granulated sugar
3. Brown sugar
4. Canned pumpkin puree
5. Eggs
6. Milk

Mix until smooth before pouring the wet ingredients into the dry mixture.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; you want some lumps remaining.

Step 5: Fill Muffin Liners

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin liners, filling each almost full.

Step 6: Prepare Crumb Topping

In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Flour
2. Granulated sugar
3. Brown sugar
4. Pumpkin pie spice

Using a fork, mix in melted butter until crumbs form without over-mixing.

Step 7: Add Crumb Topping

Spoon the crumb mixture evenly over the muffin batter and gently press it down into the batter so it adheres well.

Step 8: Bake the Muffins

Bake for 5 minutes at 425°F (218°C). Without opening the oven door, reduce the temperature to 350°F (177°C). Bake for an additional 16–17 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Total baking time is approximately 21–22 minutes.

Step 9: Cool & Icing Preparation

Allow muffins to cool in their pan for about 10 minutes while preparing icing by whisking together:
1. Confectioners’ sugar
2. Maple syrup
3. Milk

Drizzle over warm muffins before serving! Store tightly covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to one week. Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins!

How to Serve Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

Serving pumpkin crumb cake muffins can elevate your breakfast or snack time. These delightful treats are versatile and pair well with various beverages and accompaniments.

With Coffee

• Rich Brew: A cup of freshly brewed coffee complements the spices in the muffins, enhancing their flavor.
• Espresso: For a more intense coffee experience, enjoy these muffins with a shot of espresso.

With Tea

• Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea match perfectly with the pumpkin flavors, creating a cozy pairing.
• Green Tea: For a lighter option, green tea adds a refreshing balance to the richness of the muffins.

As a Dessert

• With Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat after dinner.
• Serve Warm: Enjoy them warm from the oven for maximum comfort and flavor.

With Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the warm muffins.
• Cinnamon Ice Cream: For extra spice, try cinnamon ice cream to enhance the pumpkin pie spice flavor.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

To achieve the best pumpkin crumb cake muffins, follow these helpful tips to ensure they turn out soft and delicious every time.

• Bold Ingredients: Use fresh ingredients, especially canned pumpkin puree, as it significantly affects flavor and moisture.
• Bold Mixing Technique: Gently fold wet into dry ingredients to maintain fluffiness; over-mixing can lead to dense muffins.
• Bold Baking Time: Keep an eye on baking times as ovens vary. Start checking for doneness a few minutes early to avoid overbaking.
• Bold Topping Technique: Press down on the crumb topping gently so it adheres well, creating a delightful texture contrast.
• Bold Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

Pairing side dishes with your pumpkin crumb cake muffins can create a balanced meal or snack experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with fruits and granola for a healthy complement that adds creaminess and crunch.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the muffins.
3. Cheese Plate: Include mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese to add creaminess that pairs well with spices.
4. Nuts and Seeds Mix: A handful of mixed nuts offers crunch and healthy fats that balance out sweetness.
5. Oatmeal Bowl: Serve alongside oatmeal topped with honey and nuts for a wholesome breakfast duo.
6. Smoothie: A fruit smoothie can provide hydration and additional nutrients while keeping things light.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin crumb cake muffins can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Using cold eggs or milk can result in uneven mixing. Always bring these ingredients to room temperature before starting.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense muffins. Mix just until combined to keep them light and fluffy.
• Skipping the Muffin Liners: Not using liners can cause sticking and make cleanup difficult. Always use liners or grease your muffin pan well.
• Not Measuring Flour Properly: Scooping flour directly from the bag can pack it down, leading to dry muffins. Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
• Baking at Incorrect Temperatures: Failing to preheat the oven properly can affect baking times. Always ensure your oven is fully preheated before placing your muffins in.

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Pumpkin crumb cake muffins can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Container: Use an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freezing Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

• Duration: You can freeze these muffins for up to 3 months.
• Container: Wrap muffins individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and warm the muffins for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds per muffin for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place a muffin in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins so special?

Pumpkin crumb cake muffins are soft, moist, and infused with warm spices that create a comforting flavor, making them perfect for any occasion.

Can I customize my Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to enhance flavor and texture according to your preference.

How do I ensure my Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins rise properly?

Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, and follow the recipe measurements closely for the best results.

Are there gluten-free options for Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends specifically designed for baking.

Conclusion

These pumpkin crumb cake muffins are not only delicious but also versatile enough for breakfast or dessert. Their soft texture combined with a sweet maple icing makes them irresistible. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!

---