Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

Soft and moist pumpkin crumb cake muffins are the perfect treat for any occasion. With a delightful blend of pumpkin pie spice and a sweet maple icing topping, these muffins stand out as an autumn favorite. They are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, making them suitable for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Enjoy the warm flavors and comforting texture that make Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these muffins can be whipped up in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and warm spices creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family breakfast or a festive gathering, these muffins fit right in.
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture!
• Freezes Well: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for quick breakfasts or snacks later.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your baking experience much smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Muffin pan: Ensures your muffins bake evenly and hold their shape.
• Mixing bowls: Allows you to mix dry and wet ingredients separately before combining them, which helps achieve the perfect batter consistency.
• Whisk: A key tool for blending ingredients smoothly without overmixing.

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). Prepare a 12-count muffin pan by spraying it with nonstick spray or lining it with cupcake liners. This recipe yields 15 muffins, so prepare a second muffin pan in the same way.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until combined. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together the oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, and milk until smooth.
2. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.
3. Gently fold everything together until just combined—be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Fill Muffin Liners

Spoon the batter into each muffin liner until they are almost full.

Step 5: Prepare Crumb Topping

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and pumpkin pie spice until thoroughly mixed.
2. Use a fork to lightly mix in the melted butter until crumbs form—don’t over-mix.
3. Evenly distribute the crumbs on top of the muffin batter and gently press them down into it.

Step 6: Bake Muffins

Bake in the preheated oven for:
1. 5 minutes at 425°F (218°C).
2. Keeping the muffins in the oven, reduce the temperature to 350°F (177°C).
3. Bake for an additional 16–17 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Total baking time is around 21–22 minutes.

Step 7: Cool & Icing Preparation

Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes while you prepare the icing:
1. In a bowl, whisk together all icing ingredients until smooth.
2. Drizzle over warm muffins before serving.

These delightful Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins will surely become one of your favorite baked treats! Cover tightly for storage; they last at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for up to one week. Enjoy!

How to Serve Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

These delightful pumpkin crumb cake muffins are perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, enjoying a cozy afternoon tea, or simply indulging your sweet tooth, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pair your muffins with a steaming cup of coffee for a classic combination.
• Tea: A warm cup of chai or herbal tea complements the spices in the muffins beautifully.
• Hot Chocolate: For a sweeter option, serve the muffins with rich hot chocolate, especially in colder months.

As Part of a Breakfast Spread

• Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruits for a wholesome breakfast alongside the muffins.
• Fresh Fruit: Serve sliced apples or pears for a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the muffins.
• Scrambled Eggs: Add protein to your morning by pairing these muffins with fluffy scrambled eggs.

At Dessert Time

• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on top of a warm muffin creates a delicious dessert.
• Whipped Cream: Top each muffin with whipped cream for an indulgent treat that enhances their flavors.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

To ensure your pumpkin crumb cake muffins turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing eggs and milk to room temperature helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold wet and dry ingredients together until just combined to avoid dense muffins.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your flour for accurate measurements; too much flour can lead to dry muffins.
• Check Doneness Early: Start checking for doneness at 20 minutes to prevent overbaking; use a toothpick to test.
• Let Them Cool: Allow muffins to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks for even cooling.
• Customize Toppings: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruit into the batter for added flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

Pairing side dishes with pumpkin crumb cake muffins can enhance your meal experience. Here are some tasty options you can consider.

1. Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang that balances the sweetness of the muffins.
2. Cinnamon Applesauce: Serve warm applesauce infused with cinnamon as a comforting side.
3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda for an interesting flavor contrast.
4. Roasted Nuts: A small bowl of roasted almonds or walnuts provides crunch and richness.
5. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad offers brightness and freshness, complementing the muffin’s flavors.
6. Granola Bars: Incorporate homemade or store-bought granola bars as an additional healthy snack option.
7. Smoothie Bowl: Blend up your favorite smoothie and serve it in bowls topped with seeds, nuts, and berries alongside the muffins.
8. Chia Seed Pudding: A creamy chia pudding can be served as an additional sweet treat that pairs well with pumpkin flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making pumpkin crumb cake muffins can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some errors to watch out for:

• Incorrect Measuring: Many bakers underestimate the importance of accurate measurements. Always spoon and level your flour for precise results.
• Overmixing Batter: Mixing too vigorously can result in dense muffins. Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients until just combined.
• Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Using cold eggs or milk can affect the batter’s consistency. Allow your ingredients to come to room temperature before mixing.
• Not Using Fresh Spices: Ground spices lose potency over time. Make sure your pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon are fresh for maximum flavor.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven muffins. Always preheat your oven and follow the temperature instructions closely.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store muffins in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
• Place a paper towel inside the container to absorb excess moisture and keep muffins fresh.

Freezing Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

• Freeze muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months; just ensure they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Warm muffins for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual muffins on high for about 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place muffins in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid. Heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins?

Pumpkin crumb cake muffins are moist, flavorful treats made with pumpkin puree and topped with a crunchy crumb topping that adds texture.

Can I customize my Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins?

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

How do I make these muffins gluten-free?

To adapt this recipe, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Ensure that other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How long do Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins last?

Stored properly, these muffins last up to 2 days at room temperature or up to 1 week in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

These pumpkin crumb cake muffins are not only soft and moist but also incredibly versatile. They make for a delightful breakfast or snack option that everyone will love. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins!

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