Introduction
Pumpkin spice muffins are the perfect treat for any autumn day, combining the warm flavors of spices with the moistness of pumpkin. These delightful muffins are simple to prepare and make a great breakfast option or snack. Topped with a crunchy streusel, they are sure to impress your family and friends. Here’s a closer look at the ingredients that will create this delightful treat.
Ingredients
For the Muffins:
1¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup pumpkin puree
For the Streusel Topping:
½ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
½ cup chopped pecans
Prep Time
Preparation of these muffins takes about 15 minutes, allowing you to enjoy the process of mixing and measuring the ingredients without feeling rushed.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Bake the muffins for 20-25 minutes. In total, you can expect to spend around 40-45 minutes from prep to bake. This recipe yields 12 delicious muffins, perfect for sharing or enjoying throughout the week.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by either lining it with paper liners or greasing the cups.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground ginger, ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves, ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Set this mixture aside.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of vegetable oil. Whisk them together until the mixture is well combined.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add 2 large eggs and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the sugar-oil mixture. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-integrated.
Step 5: Incorporate Pumpkin Puree
Stir in 1 cup of pumpkin puree, mixing until it is fully incorporated into the wet ingredients.
Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix just until combined, being careful not to overmix the batter.
Step 7: Fill the Muffin Cups
Evenly divide the batter among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
Step 8: Prepare the Streusel Topping
In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of packed brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
Step 9: Mix the Streusel
Stir in ¼ cup of melted unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 10: Add Pecans
Fold in ½ cup of chopped pecans into the streusel mixture.
Step 11: Add Streusel to Muffins
Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter in each muffin cup.
Step 12: Bake the Muffins
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Step 13: Cool the Muffins
Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Ingredient Substitutions
You can substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce for a healthier option.
Storage Tips
Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions
These muffins are delicious on their own but can also be served with butter or cream cheese for added flavor.
Cook techniques
Whisking
Whisking helps to combine dry ingredients like flour and baking powder, as well as to incorporate wet ingredients to create a smooth batter. Ensure to whisk until no lumps remain but avoid overmixing to prevent dense muffins.
Folding
Folding is a gentle mixing technique used to combine ingredients without deflating the batter. When adding the streusel ingredients to the melted butter, fold them together until just combined.
Measuring
Accurate measuring of ingredients is crucial for successful baking. Use standard measuring cups and spoons for dry ingredients and liquid measuring cups for wet ingredients to achieve consistency in your muffins.
Baking
Baking at the correct temperature (350°F or 175°C) is essential for ensuring even cooking. Use an oven thermometer if you want to ensure accuracy.
Cooling
Allowing muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack helps maintain their shape and allows for proper air circulation, preventing sogginess.
FAQ
Can I substitute pumpkin puree with other ingredients?
Yes, you can substitute pumpkin puree with applesauce, mashed bananas, or other fruit purees, but this may alter the flavor and texture of the muffins.
What can I use instead of vegetable oil?
You can use other neutral oils like canola oil, melted coconut oil, or even unsalted butter, keeping in mind that butter will change the flavor slightly.
Can I make the muffins without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal, applesauce, or silken tofu to make the muffins egg-free.
How do I store leftover muffins?
Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Can I add other mix-ins to the muffins?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, dried fruit, or additional nuts to customize your muffins to your taste.
Conclusion
The pumpkin muffins with streusel topping provide a delightful combination of flavors and textures, offering a warm and inviting treat perfect for any occasion. The spices enhance the natural sweetness of the pumpkin, while the crunchy streusel adds a satisfying contrast. These muffins are not just delicious; they also fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone eager to try them.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Apple Cinnamon Muffins
Combine grated apples with the existing spices for a fruity twist, enhancing the flavor with a touch of tartness.
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Muffins
Mix in chocolate chips to the batter for a rich, decadent option that pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin base.
Walnut Banana Muffins
Substitute chopped pecans with walnuts and add mashed bananas for a moist and nutty muffin experience.
Carrot Cake Muffins
Incorporate shredded carrots along with the pumpkin puree, and add crushed pineapple for extra moisture and sweetness.
Cranberry Orange Muffins
Add dried cranberries and zest from an orange to introduce a bright and tangy flavor profile to the classic muffin recipe.
Maple Pecan Muffins
Substitute the granulated sugar with maple syrup and add chopped pecans to infuse a rich, autumnal flavor into the muffins.
Peanut Butter Swirl Muffins
Swirl in peanut butter into the batter for a creamy, nutty flavor that complements the pumpkin beautifully.
