Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins: A Perfect Fall Treat



How to Make Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins

Step 1: Prepare the Muffin Pan

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with cooking spray.

Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Muffin Batter

  1. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Set aside.
  2. Combine the wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  3. Mix the batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the muffins dense.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

  1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Muffins

  1. Spoon the pumpkin muffin batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
  2. Add a dollop (about 1-2 teaspoons) of the cream cheese mixture on top of each muffin.
  3. Using a toothpick or skewer, gently swirl the cream cheese into the pumpkin batter to create a marbled effect.

Step 5: Bake the Muffins

  1. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin (not the cream cheese part) comes out clean.
  2. Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins

  1. Use room temperature cream cheese: This ensures a smooth and creamy swirl without lumps.
  2. Don’t overfill the muffin cups: Leave some space for the muffins to rise without spilling over.
  3. Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour.
  4. Enhance the flavors: Add a pinch of cardamom or allspice for extra warmth in the pumpkin batter.
  5. Store properly: Keep muffins in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain the freshness of the cream cheese.

Serving Suggestions

These muffins are a versatile treat that can be enjoyed:

  • As a breakfast or snack: Pair them with a cup of hot coffee or tea.
  • As a dessert: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream.
  • For gifting: Wrap them in a festive box for a thoughtful autumn-themed gift.

Storage and Freezing

  • Refrigerate: Store the muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze: Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm in the microwave or oven before serving.