Welcome to our seasonal baking section! Today, we’re sharing a delicious recipe for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins. These muffins are perfect for fall, featuring a moist pumpkin base with a creamy, sweet cream cheese swirl. They’re sure to be a hit with everyone. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the Muffins:
- 1 (15 ounces) can of pumpkin (pure pumpkin puree)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Swirl:
- 1 large egg yolk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl
- Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, egg yolk, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and well combined. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Batter
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease with non-stick spray.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, brown sugar, pumpkin spice, salt, and granulated sugar.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 3: Assemble the Muffins
- Fill Muffin Cups: Fill each muffin cup about 2/3 full with the pumpkin batter.
- Add Cream Cheese Swirl: Add a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture to the center of each muffin. Use a toothpick or a knife to gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the muffins comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the moist pumpkin flavor with the creamy, sweet cream cheese swirl!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Pumpkin Puree: Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, for this recipe.
- Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for a smooth swirl mixture.
- Swirling: Be gentle when swirling the cream cheese mixture to create a marbled effect without fully mixing it into the batter.
Variations
Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Muffins
Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the muffin batter for a chocolatey twist.
Nutty Pumpkin Muffins
Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for added crunch.
Spiced Pumpkin Muffins
Increase the pumpkin spice to 1 1/2 tablespoons and add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for extra spice.
Maple Cream Cheese Swirl
Add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup to the cream cheese mixture for a hint of maple flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these muffins a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze these muffins?
Yes, you can freeze the muffins. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
What can I serve with these muffins?
These muffins are delicious on their own but pair well with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a slightly denser muffin with more fiber.
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins are a delicious and festive treat perfect for the fall season. With their moist pumpkin base and creamy, sweet cream cheese swirl, they’re sure to become a favorite. Enjoy making and sharing these delightful muffins with your family and friends!
