As the leaves change colors and the air turns crisp, there's no better way to embrace the autumn season than with some warm, delicious treats.I hit the jackpot with this pumpkin cream cheese filled muffin. Packed with the flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of sweetness, these muffins shine at breakfast, make perfect snacks, or can even serve as a delightful dessert. In this post, we'll highlight the joy of making these scrumptious muffins and provide a step-by-step recipe to ensure that you can bring this seasonal delight right to your kitchen.

The magic of Pumpkin Flavors

Pumpkin is in my opinion the best comfort food and so versatile, from spiced lattes to rich pies, this versatile ingredient brings warmth and comfort with every bite. Its rich, earthy taste pairs beautifully with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

Adding cream cheese takes these traditional muffins up a notch. The creamy texture and slight tang create a delicious contrast, enhancing the flavor profile. Each bite becomes a memorable experience.

And here's a fun fact: Pumpkin is incredibly nutritious! It's rich in vitamins A and C, providing about 70% of your daily vitamin A needs in just one cup. Plus, it's high in fiber, which can help with digestion and keep you feeling full.

Ingredients You’ll Need

for the best pumpkin cream cheese filled muffins

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s list the ingredients you need to whip up these delicious pumpkin cream cheese filled muffins:

Crumb topping

• 1/3 cup (67g) packed light brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 cup (4Tbsp; 56g) unsalted butter, melted

• 2/3 cup (84g) all-purpose flour

For the Muffin Batter:

• 1 cup (227g) of canned pumpkin puree (make sure it's not pumpkin pie filling)

• 1/2 cup of granulated sugar

• 1/2 cup of coconut sugar or brown sugar, packed (i like coconut sugar to lower the refined sugar content)

• 1/2 cup (120ml) avocado oil (or melted cocnut oil)

• 2 large eggs

• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

• 1 3/4 cups (219g) of all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon of baking powder

• 1 teaspoon of baking soda

• 2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice

• 1/2 teaspoon of salt

  
  

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

• 8 oz of cream cheese, softened

• 2 tablespoons of sugar

• 1 egg yolk

• 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract

  
  

Step-by-Step Recipe

With everything prepared, let’s walk through the process of making these delightful muffins. You can also check out my youtube video

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sugar, add in egg yolk and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy. Place this delicious mixture in the refrigerator as you prepare the muffin batter.

Step 3: make your crumb topping

In a small bowl add your cinnamon and sugar, next pour your melted butter on top, stir it all together, then add the flour, with a fork mix it togther until it resembles a crumbly topping. set aside

Step 4: Make the Muffin Batter

In a large mixing bowl, mix together the pumpkin puree, both sugars, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Remember, it’s okay if there are a few lumps; overmixing can lead to dense muffins.

Step 4: Assemble the Muffins

Scoop about a tablespoon of muffin batter into each muffin cup to create a base. Add a spoonful of the cream cheese filling in the center of each cup. Then, top off each muffin with another tablespoon of muffin batter, ensuring that the cream cheese filling is completely enclosed. Then top each muffin with the crumb topping.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Place your muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 18-20 minutes. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the muffin (not the filling).

Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

now you are ready to eat the best pumpkin cream cheese filled muffin ever!

Tips for Perfect Muffins

• Don’t skip the cream cheese filling: It elevates these muffins to something truly special!

  
  

• Use pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling: This ensures your muffins won't be overly sweet or have an unbalanced spice profile.

  
  

• Adjust the spices: If you enjoy a bit more spice, consider increasing the pumpkin pie spice by 1/2 teaspoon. You can even sprinkle a bit of cinnamon on top before baking for an added aroma.

  
  

• Store properly: Keep these muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw before enjoying!

  
  

Serving Ideas

These pumpkin cream cheese filled muffins are wonderfully versatile. Serve them warm with a cup of your favorite coffee or herbal tea. They also shine at brunches or cozy fall picnics.

You could drizzle a simple icing made with powdered sugar and milk over the cooled muffins for a delightful touch. Or add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the top before baking to enhance their flavor and presentation.

Embracing Autumn with Flavor

Baking pumpkin cream cheese filled muffins is not just about pleasing your palate; it’s a celebration of the comforting flavors of fall! Their luscious texture and delightful creaminess transport you to a cozy café on a chilly afternoon.

Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or gathering friends, these muffins are bound to be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and prepare to experience the warmth and joy of homemade pumpkin muffins right in your kitchen. Happy baking!