Why Make This Recipe
Mini Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins are a delightful treat that celebrates the cozy flavors of fall. They’re perfect for a quick breakfast, an afternoon snack, or as a sweet addition to any gathering. These muffins are not just delicious; they are also made with wholesome ingredients, making them a guilt-free indulgence. Plus, their mini size means you can enjoy more than one without feeling overstuffed!
How to Make Mini Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins
Ingredients:
- 1 and 3/4 cups (220g) whole wheat flour or all-purpose flour, or mix of both
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup (4 Tbsp; 56g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup (170g) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk (any kind)
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup (4 Tbsp; 56g) unsalted butter, melted
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Spray a 24-count mini muffin pan with nonstick spray and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt together.
- In a medium bowl, whisk the melted butter and brown sugar together. Then add the egg, vanilla extract, pumpkin puree, and milk, whisking until well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Avoid over-mixing; the batter will be thick.
- Using a small spoon, spoon the batter into the muffin tins, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The muffins should bounce back when lightly poked.
- Remove from the oven and cool in the muffin pan for 10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon together. Lightly dunk a warm muffin in the melted butter, then coat it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Set the muffin upright on a cooling rack and repeat with the remaining muffins.
- These muffins taste best eaten on the same day. Cover and store any leftovers at room temperature for up to 1 day, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Loosely cover them to prevent the coating from becoming mushy.
How to Serve Mini Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins
Serve these muffins warm, fresh out of the oven or at room temperature. They are perfect on their own, but you could also pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. If you want to add a little extra, serve them with maple syrup or a drizzle of cream cheese icing.
How to Store Mini Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins
To keep your muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them for even longer, consider freezing them. Just make sure to wrap each muffin in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
Tips to Make Mini Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins
- Measure your flour accurately; spoon it into the measuring cup and level it with a knife for best results.
- Don’t over-mix the batter; this keeps the muffins light and fluffy.
- Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist!
- You can adjust the amount of cinnamon sugar coating to your taste.
Variation
You can easily modify the recipe by using different spices or add-ins. For a nutty flavor, consider adding walnuts or pecans. For a bit of chocolatey goodness, chocolate chips would complement the pumpkin perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, allergen-friendly flour, or a mix of different flours as long as you maintain the total amount.
Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate it, then bake in the morning for fresh muffins.
What can I do if I don’t have pumpkin puree?
You can substitute with applesauce or try using mashed banana for a different flavor but keep in mind it will alter the flavor of the muffins.
Enjoy whipping up a batch of these Mini Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins. They are sure to bring warmth and cheer to your kitchen!