Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe

If you’re craving something that captures the cozy vibes of fall in every bite, then you absolutely must try these Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins. They’re the ultimate mashup of moist, spiced pumpkin muffins infused with that iconic cinnamon roll swirl and topped with a silky glaze. Whether you’re looking for breakfast inspiration or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins bring all the warmth, sweetness, and comfort you want without any complicated dough or extra fuss. Trust me, once you taste their tender crumb and luscious cinnamon centers, these muffins will quickly become your new seasonal favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the secret to bringing these Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins to life. Each component plays a special part: the pumpkin purée lends vibrant color and moisture, spices inject warming notes, and the cinnamon swirl creates that irresistible gooey center.

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base for a tender muffin crumb.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the muffins rise and stay light.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Ensures a fluffy texture with the right lift.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon: Adds the signature warmth that defines pumpkin-spiced treats.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Brings a slightly sweet, nutty nuance.
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves: A little goes a long way to deepen the spice profile.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter.
• ½ cup brown sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
• 1 ½ cups canned pumpkin purée: The star ingredient for moistness and that unmistakable pumpkin flavor.
• ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the muffins tender and moist.
• ¼ cup milk (any kind): Lightens the batter just enough.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavors with a lovely floral aroma.
• ¼ cup brown sugar (for swirl): Creates that sweet cinnamon ribbon inside.
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for swirl): Infuses the classic cinnamon roll flavor.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for swirl): Makes the cinnamon sugar swirl irresistibly luscious.
• ½ cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Sweetens and smooths the glaze topping.
• 1–2 tablespoons milk (for glaze): Adjusts the glaze consistency.
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze): Adds depth and sweetness to the glaze.

How to Make Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or give it a good spray of non-stick cooking spray. This upfront step ensures even baking and easy cleanup later, setting you up for muffin success.

Step 2: Mix the Swirl

In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup brown sugar, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons melted butter. Stir until crumbly and well mixed. This cinnamon swirl mixture is the magic that creates those gooey pockets of cinnamon sweetness inside each muffin.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

Now whisk together the dry ingredients in a medium bowl: 1 ¾ cups flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Properly blending the spices with the flour ensures that every muffin has that perfectly balanced pumpkin spice flavor.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin purée, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla until smooth and well combined. This smooth wet mixture is where the fluffy pumpkin muffin base begins.

Step 5: Mix Batter

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. It’s important not to overmix here to maintain those tender, light Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins everyone loves. Slight lumps are perfectly okay!

Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups

Spoon about 1 ½ tablespoons of batter into each muffin cup. Add a small spoonful of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter, then top with a little more batter. Use a toothpick or knife to lightly swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter—be gentle so you keep those distinctive swirls rather than blending the swirl completely into the muffin.

Step 7: Bake

Pop the tray into the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Add Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to create a smooth glaze. Drizzle generously over the warm muffins and allow the glaze to set. This finishing touch adds that irresistible shine and extra sweetness that echoes a cinnamon roll’s icing.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Garnishes

While these muffins are incredible on their own, think about topping them with a light dusting of cinnamon or a sprinkle of finely chopped pecans or walnuts to add crunch and visual appeal. A little extra glaze drizzle never hurts either for that extra indulgence.

Side Dishes

Pair your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins with a hot coffee, chai latte, or pumpkin spice tea to really amplify those autumn vibes. For a more substantial breakfast, serve alongside creamy Greek yogurt and fresh fruit for balance and a burst of freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these muffins in a rustic wooden basket lined with a cozy linen napkin for that perfect fall brunch vibe. You can also cut them in half and lightly toast for an extra crisp edge, slathering them with butter or cream cheese for a twist on the classic cinnamon roll experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins stay moist and delicious when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Keep them covered to prevent drying out and enjoy them as a quick snack or breakfast treat.

Freezing

If you want to prepare them in advance or save leftovers, wrap individual muffins tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to three months without losing their flavor or texture.

Reheating

To bring frozen or leftover muffins back to life, warm them gently in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or pop them in a toaster oven for a few minutes until heated through. Add a quick drizzle of glaze or butter after reheating for that freshly baked feeling.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes! Fresh pumpkin purée works just fine, but be sure to drain it well since homemade purées often have more moisture. This prevents the batter from becoming too wet and ensures your muffins bake properly.

Can I make these without the glaze?

Absolutely. The muffins have plenty of flavor and sweetness on their own. Skipping the glaze makes for a simpler muffin, and you can always sprinkle a cinnamon sugar mix on top before baking for some added crunch.

Can I freeze these muffins?

Definitely! These Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins freeze beautifully. Wrap them individually after they’ve fully cooled, then pop them in the freezer for up to three months. They thaw quickly and taste almost as good as fresh.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to bake these right after mixing to keep them light and fluffy. However, you can prepare your dry and wet ingredients separately the night before to save time, then mix everything together just before baking.

Why are my muffins dense?

Density can result from overmixing or adding too much liquid. Stir gently and stop as soon as the dry ingredients are incorporated to keep your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins wonderfully tender.

Final Thoughts

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are a cozy, delightful treat that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Their tender crumb, swirled cinnamon center, and sweet glaze make every bite pure comfort. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or savoring one quietly with your morning coffee, these muffins are sure to brighten your day and become a beloved staple in your fall baking repertoire. Go ahead and treat yourself – your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins adventure awaits!

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