Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins
Looking for a delightful treat to enjoy this fall? Look no further! These Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins are fluffy, moist, and bursting with the warm flavors of pumpkin and spices. With a creamy swirl of cream cheese in every bite, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that combines the richness of pumpkin with the tangy creaminess of cheesecake!
Why Make This Recipe
These muffins are perfect for several reasons:
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of pumpkin, spices, and cream cheese creates a warm and inviting flavor profile that is perfect for autumn.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up a batch of these muffins in no time.
- Versatile: Enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert. These muffins are great for any occasion!
- Freezer Friendly: You can easily make a double batch and freeze them for a quick treat later.
How to Make Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins
Making these delightful muffins involves just a few easy steps. Follow along to create your own scrumptious batch!
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, stirring until just combined.
- In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with an additional tablespoon of sugar until smooth.
- Fill each muffin cup halfway with the pumpkin batter. Add a dollop of cream cheese mixture, and then top with more pumpkin batter.
- Use a toothpick to swirl the cream cheese into the batter lightly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before serving.
How to Serve Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins
Serve these muffins warm, fresh out of the oven, or let them cool for a delightful treat later. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy fall breakfast. They also make an excellent addition to brunch spreads or festive gatherings.
How to Store Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins
To keep your muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the muffins by placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Just thaw them at room temperature or microwave for a quick treat!
Tips to Make Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the batter. Mix just until combined for the best texture.
- Spice It Up: Customize the spices based on your preference. Add a pinch of clove or ginger for an extra kick.
Variations
- Add Nuts: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch.
- Chocolate Chip Version: Incorporate chocolate chips into the pumpkin batter for a chocolatey twist.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based milk for a vegan version.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned pumpkin puree?
Yes! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly in this recipe and saves time.
2. How can I tell when the muffins are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are done baking.
3. Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! You can double the ingredients and make a larger batch for sharing or freezing.
Enjoy baking these delicious Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins, and taste the flavors of fall in every bite!
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins
Ingredients
Muffin Batter
- 1 cup pumpkin puree Canned or fresh
- 1/2 cup sugar Granulated
- 1/2 cup brown sugar Packed
- 2 large eggs At room temperature
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Sifted
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Cream Cheese Swirl
- 1/2 cup cream cheese Softened
- 1 tablespoon sugar For mixing with cream cheese
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the pumpkin mixture, stirring until just combined.
- In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese with an additional tablespoon of sugar until smooth.
Baking
- Fill each muffin cup halfway with the pumpkin batter. Add a dollop of cream cheese mixture, and then top with more pumpkin batter.
- Use a toothpick to swirl the cream cheese into the batter lightly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before serving.
