Imagine biting into a warm, perfectly spiced muffin that captures the essence of fall in every single delectable crumb. These spiced pumpkin and cream cheese streusel-topped muffins are not just a recipe—they're a sensory journey that transforms your kitchen into a cozy autumn haven. With a luxurious cream cheese center and a crunchy streusel crown, these muffins promise to be the star of your breakfast table, weekend brunch, or afternoon coffee break.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 muffins
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup streusel topping
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined and no lumps remain.
- In a separate medium bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough muffins.
- Soften the cream cheese at room temperature, then dollop small spoonfuls into the center of each muffin batter, gently pressing it slightly into the batter.
- Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over each muffin, covering the cream cheese and batter surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the muffins cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve warm or at room temperature. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Tips
- Room temperature ingredients are key: Ensure eggs and cream cheese are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Don't overmix the batter: Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep muffins tender and light.
- For extra cream cheese flavor, try adding a pinch of vanilla extract when softening the cream cheese.
- Use fresh spices for the most vibrant flavor—check your spice cabinet and replace if they're more than 6 months old.
- For a more decadent streusel, consider adding chopped pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the topping.
- Let muffins cool slightly in the tin to help them set and prevent crumbling when removing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 45mg
