These are The Best Homemade Pumpkin Muffins you’ll ever make! Perfect for cozy fall mornings or a delightful afternoon snack, these muffins are soft, moist, and bursting with warm spices. Topped with a cinnamon-sugar crust, they will become a staple in your home for any occasion.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients
- Wet Ingredients
- Topping
- How to Make The Best Homemade Pumpkin Muffins
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
- Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Step 5: Prepare the Topping
- Step 6: Fill and Bake
- Step 7: Cool and Serve
- How to Serve The Best Homemade Pumpkin Muffins
- Morning Delight
- Sweet Additions
- Fruit Pairings
- Savory Options
- How to Perfect The Best Homemade Pumpkin Muffins
- Best Side Dishes for The Best Homemade Pumpkin Muffins
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing The Best Homemade Pumpkin Muffins
- Reheating The Best Homemade Pumpkin Muffins
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
- How do I know when my muffins are done?
- What can I add to customize my pumpkin muffins?
- How should I store leftover muffins?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a taste that is both comforting and festive.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy these muffins for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert—perfect for any time of day!
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for quick breakfasts or snacks on busy days.
- Customizable Options: Add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to personalize your muffins!
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking, gather your tools to make the process smoother. Using the right equipment can enhance your baking experience and ensure great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Muffin pans
- Muffin liners
- Mixing bowls
- Electric stand mixer (or whisk)
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Muffin pans: These ensure your muffins bake evenly and maintain their shape.
- Electric stand mixer: It saves time and effort when mixing wet ingredients thoroughly.
- Whisk: A simple but effective tool for combining dry ingredients and ensuring there are no lumps.
Ingredients
For these delicious muffins, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Wet Ingredients
- 1 (15 oz) can pure pumpkin (or homemade puree)
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups + 1 tablespoon sugar (divided)
Topping
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
How to Make The Best Homemade Pumpkin Muffins
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line two 12-cup muffin pans with muffin liners.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a small bowl, whisk together the following:
* All-purpose flour
* Baking powder
* Baking soda
* Salt
* Pumpkin pie spice
Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Combine the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, and 1 1/4 cups of sugar.
2. Mix on low speed until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients:
– Mix on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your muffins tender.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, stir together:
– The remaining tablespoon of sugar
– Cinnamon
This will create a tasty topping for your muffins.
Step 6: Fill and Bake
Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups:
– Fill each about two-thirds full.
– Sprinkle the tops generously with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
– Bake for 20-25 minutes until they are puffed up and golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Enjoy these The Best Homemade Pumpkin Muffins fresh from the oven or store them for later!
How to Serve The Best Homemade Pumpkin Muffins
These pumpkin muffins are not just delicious; they are also versatile. You can enjoy them in various ways that enhance their flavor and texture. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most out of your muffins.
Morning Delight
- With Coffee: Pair your muffins with a cup of freshly brewed coffee for a perfect morning pick-me-up.
- With Tea: Enjoy these muffins alongside a warm cup of herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
Sweet Additions
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top for a richer taste.
- Honey Drizzle: Drizzle honey over your muffin for added sweetness and moisture.
Fruit Pairings
- Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of mixed berries for a refreshing contrast.
- Apple Slices: Pair with crisp apple slices to add crunch and extra flavor.
Savory Options
- Cheese Platter: Include a selection of cheeses for an interesting sweet and savory combination.
- Yogurt Dip: Serve alongside Greek yogurt for a protein boost and creaminess.

How to Perfect The Best Homemade Pumpkin Muffins
To ensure your pumpkin muffins come out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh pumpkin puree or spices for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to keep the muffins light and fluffy.
- Check Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when they are done baking.
- Cool Properly: Allow your muffins to cool in the pan before transferring them to prevent sogginess.
- Storage Matters: Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness for longer periods.
Best Side Dishes for The Best Homemade Pumpkin Muffins
These pumpkin muffins pair well with several delightful side dishes. Here are some tasty options:
- Vanilla Yogurt: A creamy accompaniment that complements the spices in the muffins.
- Maple Syrup: A drizzle adds sweetness and enhances the autumn flavors.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the richness of the muffins.
- Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal can make for a hearty breakfast alongside your muffins.
- Smoothie Bowl: Serve with a nutrient-packed smoothie bowl for an energizing start to your day.
- Scrambled Eggs: For a savory option, scrambled eggs add protein and richness to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making the best homemade pumpkin muffins can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of for perfect results.
- Using stale ingredients – Always check your baking powder and baking soda for freshness. Expired ingredients can lead to flat muffins.
- Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can make your muffins tough. Mix until just combined for a light, fluffy texture.
- Not measuring accurately – Use proper measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients. This ensures the right balance of moisture and structure.
- Skipping the cooling period – Letting muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes helps them set and prevents sticking.
- Ignoring oven temperature – Preheat your oven correctly. An improperly heated oven can affect baking time and muffin texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store muffins in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 1 week in the refrigerator.
Freezing The Best Homemade Pumpkin Muffins
- Wrap muffins individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating The Best Homemade Pumpkin Muffins
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F and warm muffins for about 10 minutes. This restores their soft texture.
- Microwave – Heat one muffin at a time for 15-20 seconds on high. Be careful not to overheat, or they may become dry.
- Stovetop – Place a muffin in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes. This method keeps them moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making The Best Homemade Pumpkin Muffins, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use freshly cooked pumpkin puree. Just make sure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
How do I know when my muffins are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your muffins are ready!
What can I add to customize my pumpkin muffins?
You can mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried cranberries for added flavor and texture.
How should I store leftover muffins?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Final Thoughts
The Best Homemade Pumpkin Muffins are not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy them as breakfast or snack any day of the week. Feel free to customize them with your favorite add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips for an extra treat!
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The Best Homemade Pumpkin Muffins
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 muffins 1x
Description
Discover the joy of baking with The Best Homemade Pumpkin Muffins, perfect for cozy fall mornings or as a delightful afternoon snack. Bursting with warm spices and topped with a cinnamon-sugar crust, these muffins are soft, moist, and incredibly easy to make. Using simple ingredients, this versatile treat can be enjoyed any time of day—whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. Plus, they are freezer-friendly, so you can whip up a batch ahead of time for quick access on busy days. Customize them to your liking by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for even more flavor!
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 (15 oz) can pure pumpkin
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/4 cups + 1 tablespoon sugar (divided)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two muffin pans with liners.
- In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.
- In a stand mixer bowl, combine pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, and sugar; mix on low speed until combined.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix the remaining sugar with cinnamon for the topping.
- Fill muffin cups two-thirds full with batter and sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown; check doneness with a toothpick.
- Allow muffins to cool in the pan for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin (68g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg