Best Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins Recipe Now

Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

If you’re longing for the perfect fall treat, you’ll fall head over heels for these Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins. Imagine moist, tender pumpkin-spiced muffins crowned with a sweet, crunchy crumb topping that adds the perfect texture in every bite. This Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins recipe brings together the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin puree, baking into a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying them with your morning coffee or sharing them as a cozy snack, these muffins are sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Moist and Fluffy Texture: Thanks to pumpkin puree and oil, these muffins stay soft and moist without being dense.
  • Perfectly Spiced: A balanced blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger spices brings classic fall warmth without overpowering sweetness.
  • Crunchy Crumb Topping: The buttery crumb topping adds delightful texture contrast, making every bite more exciting.
  • Easy and Quick to Make: Simple steps and common pantry staples make this recipe accessible for beginners and busy bakers alike.
  • Great for Meal Prep: Muffins store and freeze well, ideal for busy mornings or sweet treats on the go.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have at home. Each one plays a vital role in delivering the perfect taste, texture, and beautiful orange hue that makes Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins so special.

  • Pumpkin puree: The heart of the recipe, adding moisture and vibrant autumn flavor.
  • All-purpose flour: Provides structure for the muffins while keeping them tender.
  • Sugar: A mix of granulated and brown sugar adds sweetness and depth.
  • Vegetable oil: Ensures moistness without heaviness.
  • Eggs: Bind ingredients together and contribute to the fluffy rise.
  • Baking powder and baking soda: Combined leaveners lighten the crumb for perfect lift.
  • Spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger): Warm spices create that unmistakable fall flavor.
  • Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
  • Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle aromatic depth.
  • For the crumb topping – butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon: These combine for the addictive crunchy finish.

Variations for Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

One of the best parts about making Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins is how easy they are to customize. Feel free to mix in flavors or swap ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs without losing that cozy fall spirit.

  • Nutty Upgrade: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping for extra crunch and flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend using xanthan gum for structure.
  • Healthier Swap: Replace sugar with maple syrup or coconut sugar for a more natural sweetness boost.
  • Chocolate Twist: Fold in mini dark chocolate chips to add a touch of indulgence.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut oil instead of butter in the topping and a plant-based milk alternative for moisture.
Best Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins Recipe Now

How to Make Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

Step 1: Prepare the crumb topping

Start by combining cold butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a bowl. Use a fork or pastry cutter to blend everything until coarse crumbs form. Set aside in the fridge to maintain its chilliness.

Step 2: Mix dry ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This creates the flavorful base that will make your Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins perfectly spiced.

Step 3: Combine wet ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat together eggs, vegetable oil, sugar, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth and well incorporated, which keeps the batter moist and flavorful.

Step 4: Blend wet and dry mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients gradually and gently fold until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your muffins tender and light.

Step 5: Fill muffin tins and add crumb topping

Divide the batter evenly among lined or greased muffin cups. Sprinkle a generous amount of the prepared crumb topping over each muffin, enhancing flavor and texture.

Step 6: Bake until golden

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool before enjoying.

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

  • Use room temperature eggs: They blend more easily with other ingredients, ensuring an even texture.
  • Measure flour properly: Spoon it lightly into the measuring cup and level off to avoid dense muffins.
  • Don’t overmix: Folding gently preserves air bubbles, making muffins soft and fluffy.
  • Chill the crumb topping: Keeping it cool until baking helps it stay crisp on top.
  • Check doneness early: Ovens vary; start testing for doneness at 18 minutes to avoid overbaking.

How to Serve Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple glaze, or a smear of cream cheese frosting can elevate your Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins for a charming presentation and extra flavor boost.

Side Dishes

Pair your muffins with warm coffee, chai tea, or a glass of cold milk to complement the spices perfectly. For a heartier breakfast, serve alongside scrambled eggs or fresh fruit.

Creative Ways to Present

Place muffins in a rustic basket lined with a fall-themed cloth napkin for a cozy, inviting look. Alternatively, use pretty cupcake liners and top with a cinnamon stick for a festive fall occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain their fresh taste and fluffy texture.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze muffins individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature overnight before serving.

Reheating

Warm muffins in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or in a low oven (300°F/150°C) for 5 to 10 minutes to regain that freshly-baked warmth and softness.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

It’s best to use plain pumpkin puree because canned pumpkin pie filling contains added spices and sugar, which can affect the flavor and texture of your muffins.

How can I make these muffins vegan?

Replace eggs with flax eggs or applesauce, and swap butter with plant-based alternatives in the crumb topping to make delicious vegan Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins.

Why are my muffins dense instead of fluffy?

Overmixing the batter or packing the flour too tightly can lead to dense muffins; be sure to fold gently and measure ingredients properly.

Is it okay to substitute the oil with melted butter?

Absolutely! Melted butter adds a richer flavor but may make the texture slightly denser compared to oil’s lighter moisture.

Can I double this Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins recipe?

Yes, doubling works well; just make sure to mix batter in a larger bowl and bake in batches to ensure even cooking.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the cozy, heartwarming scent and taste of freshly baked Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins when fall arrives. This recipe is a fantastic way to welcome the season indoors with simple ingredients and a little love. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself, these muffins promise to bring smiles, warmth, and a perfect bite of autumn bliss. Give them a try and watch them become a treasured classic in your baking collection!

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Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

Moist and tender Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins featuring warm fall spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, crowned with a buttery, crunchy crumb topping. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or snack, these muffins blend comforting flavors with an irresistible texture and are easy to make with common pantry staples.

  • Author: Judy
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 12 muffins 1x
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Crumb Topping

  • ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
  • ½ cup brown sugar, packed
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crumb topping: Combine cold butter, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a bowl. Use a fork or pastry cutter to blend everything until coarse crumbs form. Place the mixture in the fridge to keep it chilled until needed.
  2. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. This will create the spiced base for the muffins.
  3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat eggs, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined to ensure moisture and flavor throughout the batter.
  4. Blend wet and dry mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture gradually, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep muffins light and fluffy.
  5. Fill muffin tins and add crumb topping: Evenly divide the batter among lined or greased muffin cups. Generously sprinkle the prepared crumb topping over each muffin to provide a crunchy texture.
  6. Bake until golden: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let muffins cool before serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature eggs for better blending and even texture.
  • Measure flour properly by spooning into the cup and leveling off to avoid dense muffins.
  • Do not overmix the batter; folding gently preserves air bubbles and softness.
  • Keep the crumb topping chilled until baking to help it remain crisp.
  • Start checking muffins for doneness at 18 minutes to avoid overbaking.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 muffin
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: pumpkin muffins, crumb topping, fall baking, pumpkin spice, easy muffins, breakfast, snack

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