Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

Soft and moist, Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Bursting with the warm flavors of pumpkin pie spice and topped with a sweet maple icing, these muffins are ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even as an afternoon snack. Their unique crumb topping adds a delicious crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender muffin base. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy day at home, these muffins are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these muffins come together quickly.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin puree and spices creates a rich, comforting taste that’s perfect for fall.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them warm out of the oven or save some for later—these muffins are great any time of day.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet crumb topping and soft texture.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time for quick breakfasts throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins, gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Muffin pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fork

Why These Tools Matter

• Muffin pan: Ensures even baking and helps shape your muffins perfectly.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients without spills.
• Whisk: A must-have for achieving a smooth batter free from lumps.

Ingredients

Soft and moist pumpkin crumb cake muffins with pumpkin pie spice and maple icing topping.

• 1 and 3/4 cups (219g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon store-bought or homemade pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120ml) canola or vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1 and 1/2 cups (340g) canned pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup (94g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (50g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon store-bought or homemade pumpkin pie spice
• 6 Tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 and 1/2 cups (180g) confectioners’ sugar
• 2 Tablespoons (30ml) pure maple syrup
• 2 Tablespoons (30ml) milk

How to Make Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Prepare a 12-count muffin pan by spraying it with nonstick spray or lining it with cupcake liners. Since this recipe yields 15 muffins, prepare an additional muffin pan in the same manner. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:
1. 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 teaspoon baking soda
3. 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
4. 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
5. 1/2 teaspoon salt

Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. 1/2 cup canola or vegetable oil
2. 1/2 cup granulated sugar
3. 1/2 cup brown sugar
4. 1 and 1/2 cups canned pumpkin puree
5. 2 large eggs
6. 1/4 cup milk

Once combined, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, folding gently until just combined.

Step 4: Fill Muffin Liners

Spoon the batter into prepared liners, filling each one almost to the top.

Step 5: Prepare Crumb Topping

In another bowl, whisk together:
1. 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
2. 1/4 cup granulated sugar
3. 1/4 cup brown sugar
4. 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Using a fork, mix in:
5. 6 tablespoons melted butter until crumbs form; avoid over-mixing.

Sprinkle this crumb mixture evenly over the muffin batter and gently press down so they’re snug.

Step 6: Bake the Muffins

Bake for 5 minutes at 425°F (218°C), then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (177°C) without opening the oven door. Bake for an additional 16–17 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Total baking time is about 21–22 minutes.

Allow muffins to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes while you prepare the icing.

Step 7: Make Maple Icing

In a bowl, whisk together:
1. Confectioners’ sugar
2. Pure maple syrup
3. Milk

Drizzle this icing over warm muffins before serving! Store tightly covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to one week. Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins!

How to Serve Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

Pumpkin crumb cake muffins are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these muffins can be paired with different accompaniments to enhance their flavor and presentation.

With Coffee

• Enjoy these muffins with a hot cup of coffee for a perfect morning pick-me-up. The rich coffee flavor complements the pumpkin spice beautifully.

Spreadable Toppings

• Try spreading cream cheese or flavored butter on your muffins. This adds a creamy texture and additional flavor that pairs wonderfully with the spices.

Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside slices of fresh fruit such as apples or pears. The natural sweetness and crunch balance the moistness of the muffins.

Whipped Cream

• Top your muffins with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert option. This makes them feel extra special on any occasion.

Ice Cream

• For a delicious treat, serve warm muffins with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The heat from the muffin mixed with cold ice cream is simply divine.

Drizzle of Honey

• A light drizzle of honey over the muffins adds an extra touch of sweetness and enhances their flavor profile.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

To ensure your pumpkin crumb cake muffins turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your eggs and milk to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins instead of fluffy ones.
• Check Oven Temperature: Every oven is different; use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for perfect results.
• Cool Before Icing: Let the muffins cool slightly before adding icing. This prevents it from melting off completely and gives you a beautiful finish.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add more spices like nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick in flavor if desired.
• Store Properly: Keep your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

These pumpkin crumb cake muffins can be complemented by several tasty side dishes that elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Yogurt – A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein, making it a wholesome choice alongside your muffin.
2. Chai Tea – The spiced flavors of chai tea work harmoniously with pumpkin spice, creating a cozy pairing perfect for autumn mornings.
3. Cinnamon Oatmeal – A warm bowl of cinnamon oatmeal brings comfort and pairs well with the flavors in the muffins.
4. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and balances out the sweetness of the muffins while providing vitamins.
5. Nut Mix – A small serving of mixed nuts provides crunch and healthy fats, making it a satisfying side that complements the soft texture of the muffins.
6. Cheese Platter – Include some mild cheeses like brie or gouda for an elegant touch, enhancing your muffin experience during brunch gatherings.
7. Smoothie Bowl – A smoothie bowl topped with granola can serve as a vibrant side dish that keeps things light yet filling next to your muffin.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Using stale ingredients: Always check your baking powder and spices for freshness. Stale ingredients can lead to flat muffins that lack flavor.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can create tough muffins. Fold the wet and dry ingredients together just until combined for a light, fluffy texture.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Starting at a high temperature is crucial for the muffin tops to rise properly. Make sure your oven is preheated correctly before baking.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allowing muffins to cool in the pan prevents them from becoming soggy. Don’t rush this step if you want perfectly moist muffins.
• Not measuring accurately: Use proper measuring techniques, especially for flour. Spoon and level it off for accurate measurements to avoid dense muffins.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Keep at room temperature if consumed quickly; refrigerate if longer storage is needed.

Freezing Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

• Freeze in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before freezing to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and warm them for about 10 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin on medium power for about 15-20 seconds. This keeps them moist.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins healthier?

You can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour and reduce sugar by substituting applesauce or using a sugar alternative.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in chopped walnuts or chocolate chips into the batter for added texture and flavor.

How do I store leftover Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them if not consumed within a couple of days.

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Adjustments may be needed, so check specific ratios.

What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?

You can easily make your own by mixing cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and allspice together in equal parts.

Conclusion

These Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins are soft, moist treats perfect for any occasion. Their delightful flavor comes from pumpkin pie spice and maple icing, making them irresistible. Feel free to customize with nuts or chocolate chips to suit your taste!

---