Pumpkin Streusel Muffins

These Pumpkin Streusel Muffins are the perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a delightful dessert. With their soft and moist texture combined with the warm flavors of pumpkin spice, these muffins stand out with an irresistible crunchy cinnamon streusel topping and a drizzle of sweet vanilla glaze. You’ll find yourself reaching for these muffins again and again, making them a staple in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin, cinnamon, and spices creates a warm and inviting taste that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip these up effortlessly.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert; these muffins suit any time of day.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, parties, or family brunches; everyone will love them!
• Customizable: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes baking so much easier. Here’s what you need to gather before you start making your Pumpkin Streusel Muffins.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Muffin pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Why These Tools Matter

• Muffin pan: Ensures your muffins hold their shape and bake evenly.
• Mixing bowls: Allows for easy mixing of wet and dry ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending ingredients smoothly for consistent batter.

Ingredients

For the Streusel Topping

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (62.5 grams)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (50 grams)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50 grams)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (56 grams) (melted)

For the Muffins

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (187.5 grams)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (see recipe notes for substitution)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil (80 ml) (canola works too)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (100 grams) (packed)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (50 grams)
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup sour cream (60 ml)
• 1 cup pure pumpkin (240 ml) (AKA pumpkin puree)

For the Glaze

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (55 grams) (AKA icing sugar)
• 1-2 tablespoons cream (or milk )

How to Make Pumpkin Streusel Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Line a 12-cavity muffin pan with muffin papers to make removal easy after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. 1/2 cup all-purpose flour,
2. 1/4 cup brown sugar,
3. 1/4 cup granulated sugar,
4. 1 teaspoon cinnamon.

Add melted butter and mix until crumbly.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
1. 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour,
2. 1 teaspoon cinnamon,
3. 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice,
4. 1 teaspoon baking powder,
5. 1/2 teaspoon baking soda,
6. 1/4 teaspoon salt.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix:
1. 1/3 cup vegetable oil,
2. 1/2 cup brown sugar,
3. 1/4 cup granulated sugar,
4. 2 large eggs,
5. 2 teaspoons vanilla extract,
6. 1/4 cup sour cream,
7. 1 cup pure pumpkin.

Stir until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined—do not overmix!

Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups

Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full.

Step 7: Add Streusel Topping

Evenly distribute the streusel topping over each muffin.

Step 8: Bake the Muffins

Place the muffin pan in the oven and bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Glaze

Once baked, let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Drizzle with glaze made from powdered sugar mixed with cream or milk.

Enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Streusel Muffins!

How to Serve Pumpkin Streusel Muffins

These delicious pumpkin streusel muffins are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them as a breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pair your muffins with a hot cup of coffee for a delightful morning boost. The warm spices in the muffins complement the rich flavors of coffee perfectly.

Spread with Cream Cheese

• A generous spread of cream cheese adds a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the muffin’s lightness. You can even mix in a little cinnamon for extra flavor.

Drizzle with Honey

• A drizzle of honey enhances the natural sweetness of the muffins and adds a lovely floral note. This is especially nice if you prefer something less sugary.

Enjoy with Fresh Fruit

• Serve your muffins alongside fresh fruit like apple slices or berries for a balanced breakfast or snack. The freshness of the fruit will brighten up your plate.

Top with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an indulgent dessert option. It transforms your muffin into a mini pumpkin cake that feels extra special.

As Part of a Brunch Spread

• Include these muffins in your brunch buffet along with other favorites like quiche and fruit salad. They make for an inviting and festive presentation.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Streusel Muffins

Making pumpkin streusel muffins can be easy, but here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh baking powder and spices for the best flavor and texture. Old ingredients can lead to dense muffins.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon flour into measuring cups instead of scooping it directly from the bag to avoid packing it down, which can make your muffins heavy.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins instead of soft and fluffy ones.
• Cool Before Glazing: Allow your muffins to cool slightly before adding glaze. This prevents it from melting too much and helps it set beautifully on top.
• Store Properly: Keep leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze them for longer storage while maintaining their moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Streusel Muffins

Pumpkin streusel muffins pair well with various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a refreshing side that complements the richness of the muffin.
2. Smoothie Bowl: Blend your favorite fruits into a smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds, providing a nutritious balance.
3. Cheese Platter: Offer mild cheeses alongside crackers as a savory contrast to the sweet muffins.
4. Granola Bars: Serve homemade granola bars for an added crunch, perfect as an energy-boosting snack alongside.
5. Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad adds freshness and color, making each bite feel light and refreshing.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: Prepare chia seed pudding for a nutritious side that pairs well with sweet flavors while being packed with fiber.
7. Cottage Cheese Bowl: Cottage cheese topped with sliced fruits provides protein-rich nutrition alongside your sweet treat.
8. Nut Butter Toasts: Whole grain toast spread with almond or peanut butter gives added protein and pairs well with pumpkin flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking the perfect Pumpkin Streusel Muffins can be a delightful experience, but some common pitfalls may hinder your success.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can prevent proper mixing and lead to denser muffins.
• Overmixing Batter: Stir the batter just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough muffins due to gluten development.
• Skipping the Streusel Topping: The cinnamon streusel adds a lovely crunch. Don’t skip it; it’s essential for flavor and texture!
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven to 375°F before baking. An unheated oven can lead to uneven baking.
• Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour. Too much flour will make your muffins dry.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooled muffins in an airtight container.
• They will keep fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Pumpkin Streusel Muffins

• Place muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are completely cooled before freezing.

Reheating Pumpkin Streusel Muffins

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, then wrap muffins in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat each muffin for about 15-20 seconds on high. Adjust time based on microwave wattage.
• Stovetop: Place muffins in a skillet over low heat, covered, for a few minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Pumpkin Streusel Muffins more moist?

To enhance moisture, consider adding an extra tablespoon of sour cream or using Greek yogurt instead.

Can I replace pumpkin puree with fresh pumpkin?

Yes! Cook and puree fresh pumpkin as an alternative, but ensure it is well-drained to avoid excess moisture.

What spices can I use besides pumpkin pie spice?

You can use a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger as substitutes for pumpkin pie spice in your recipe.

How long do Pumpkin Streusel Muffins last?

These muffins stay fresh for about 5 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months if frozen properly.

Conclusion

These Pumpkin Streusel Muffins are not only irresistibly soft and moist but also versatile enough to enjoy at breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts or chocolate chips to suit your taste!

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