Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins are a delightful treat that everyone will enjoy! Soft, moist, and packed with warm spices, they’re perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. The best part? This recipe is simple to make in just one bowl, making it ideal for busy mornings or impromptu gatherings. With the comforting flavors of pumpkin and sweet chocolate chips, these muffins stand out as a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: The batter comes together in just one bowl, making cleanup a breeze.
• Versatile: Enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a delightful dessert.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a double batch and freeze extras for quick access to delicious treats later.
• Flavorful and Spiced: Each bite is infused with warm pumpkin pie spices that evoke the essence of fall.
• Family Favorite: These muffins are sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand makes baking these muffins even easier. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Muffin tin
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Muffin tin: Ensures perfectly shaped muffins that rise beautifully.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps keep ingredients organized while mixing.
• Whisk: A great tool for combining wet ingredients evenly.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding in flour and chocolate chips without overmixing.

Ingredients

These pumpkin chocolate chip muffins are soft, moist, and filled with warm spices. The batter is quick to make in just one bowl. This is my family’s favorite pumpkin muffin recipe! I like to make a double batch and freeze the extras for quick breakfasts and snacks. See the notes below for my tip on doubling the recipe.

For the Muffins

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (see note)
• ½ cup honey or pure maple syrup
• ¼ cup milk (dairy, almond, etc.)
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
• 1 ½ cups white whole wheat flour (or regular whole wheat flour or all-purpose flour)
• ½ cup chocolate chips (I like to use mini chocolate chips)

How to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350° F. Spray a muffin tin with cooking spray. If you prefer, you can also use a mini muffin pan.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

Place the butter in a large bowl and melt it in the microwave until fully liquefied.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

To the melted butter, add the canned pumpkin puree, honey or pure maple syrup, and milk. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined. Then whisk in the eggs and vanilla extract.

Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients

Add the baking soda, baking powder, and salt to the mixture. Whisk until everything is well incorporated. Next, whisk in the pumpkin pie spice.

Step 5: Incorporate Flour and Chocolate Chips

Using a rubber spatula, gently mix in the white whole wheat flour along with the chocolate chips. Be careful not to overmix; just combine until there are no dry spots.

Step 6: Portion into Muffin Pan

Scoop your batter into the prepared muffin pan using a large scoop for convenience. If desired, sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top of each muffin before baking.

Step 7: Bake

Bake your muffins for 15-18 minutes or until a tester inserted into the center comes out clean. If you’re making mini muffins, they will take about 12 minutes to bake. Let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve them warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

These pumpkin chocolate chip muffins are perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s breakfast, a snack, or dessert, you can elevate your serving experience with a few delightful suggestions.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

• Coffee: Enjoy these muffins with a hot cup of coffee for a cozy morning treat.
• Herbal Tea: A warm herbal tea complements the spices in the muffins beautifully.

Add a Spread

• Cream Cheese: Spread a layer of cream cheese for added richness and flavor.
• Peanut Butter: For a nutty twist, add peanut butter on top of your muffin.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Apples: Fresh apple slices provide a crunchy contrast to the soft muffins.
• Berries: A side of mixed berries adds freshness and brightens up the plate.

Create a Breakfast Platter

• Yogurt Parfait: Pair your muffin with yogurt and granola for a well-rounded breakfast.
• Egg Muffins: Serve alongside savory egg muffins for a hearty meal.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

To ensure your pumpkin chocolate chip muffins turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Bold Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh pumpkin puree and high-quality chocolate chips for the best flavor.
• Bold Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the muffins light and fluffy.
• Bold Measure Accurately: Use proper measuring techniques for flour and other ingredients to avoid dense muffins.
• Bold Check Doneness Early: Start checking your muffins a minute or two before the suggested baking time to prevent overbaking.
• Bold Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the pumpkin pie spice mix according to your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

Pumpkin chocolate chip muffins pair well with various side dishes. Here are some tasty options that complement their flavors perfectly.

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with honey and granola for added protein and crunch.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides a sweet contrast and adds nutritional value.
3. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal on the side makes for an energizing breakfast combo.
4. Cheese Plate: Include some sliced cheese for a savory touch alongside the sweet muffins.
5. Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds offers vibrant flavors and textures.
6. Cottage Cheese: Serve cottage cheese sprinkled with cinnamon as a nutritious side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin chocolate chip muffins can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold eggs or milk can lead to uneven mixing. Always bring your ingredients to room temperature before use.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make your muffins tough instead of light and fluffy. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
• Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your muffins and check for doneness a couple of minutes early to prevent overbaking.
• Skipping the muffin liner or spray: Not greasing the muffin tin may cause your muffins to stick. Always prepare your pan to ensure easy removal.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can lead to dense muffins. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store pumpkin chocolate chip muffins in an airtight container.
• They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

• Allow muffins to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Frozen muffins can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350° F and warm the muffins for about 10 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin for about 15-20 seconds until warm; be careful not to overheat as it can dry them out.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet on low heat, covered, and warm for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make pumpkin chocolate chip muffins healthier?

You can substitute honey with applesauce or reduce the amount of sugar used. Consider adding nuts or seeds for extra nutrition.

Can I use fresh pumpkin?

Yes! If using fresh pumpkin, roast and puree it before measuring. This will give your muffins a delicious flavor.

What is the best way to store my muffins?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them as described earlier.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, dried fruit, or even coconut flakes for added texture and flavor.

Why are my muffins dense?

Dense muffins typically result from overmixing or too much flour. Ensure you measure accurately and mix until just combined.

Conclusion

These pumpkin chocolate chip muffins are a delightful treat that combines warmth and sweetness in every bite. They’re perfect for breakfast or as a snack any time of day. Feel free to customize with your favorite spices or mix-ins for a unique twist!

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