Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins

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There’s something incredibly comforting about the scent of pumpkin spice drifting from the kitchen. These Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins are one of my all-time favorite autumn treats, but honestly, I bake them all year round. They’re soft, moist, and delicately spiced, with a crackly cinnamon-sugar topping that adds just the right amount of sweetness and crunch in every bite. Perfect for breakfast, a quick snack, or paired with your afternoon coffee.

I love how these muffins come together so easily without needing any fancy equipment—just a couple of bowls and a whisk. The pumpkin puree keeps them wonderfully tender and gives them a rich color that screams cozy mornings and fall vibes. Whether you’re baking for your family or bringing them to a get-together, these muffins never last long.

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Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins

These muffins are moist, fluffy, and infused with the warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The cinnamon sugar topping forms a golden, slightly crisp layer that gives way to the soft pumpkin interior. They’re simple to make, use pantry staples, and are freezer-friendly too. Basically, they’re everything you want in a pumpkin treat!

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What Kind of Pumpkin Should I Use?

For this recipe, I always reach for canned pumpkin puree—not pumpkin pie filling, which already has added sugar and spices. The puree gives these muffins the perfect texture and moisture without overwhelming sweetness. If you’re using homemade puree, make sure it’s thick and not watery, or it could affect the consistency.

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Options for Substitutions

• Oil: You can swap the vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or unsalted butter for a richer flavor.
• Flour: Use whole wheat flour for a heartier version, or gluten-free flour if needed.
• Eggs: A flax egg or egg replacer works well for a vegan-friendly option.
• Dairy-Free: Almond milk or oat milk can be used in place of regular milk.
• Sugar: You can use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a slightly deeper flavor.

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Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides structure and balance. It’s the base that holds the muffins together.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leavening agents ensure the muffins rise properly and become fluffy.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Ground Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ginger, Cloves: These spices create the warm, spiced flavor profile that makes pumpkin muffins irresistible.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the muffins and contributes to their golden color.
• Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and a deep molasses flavor.
• Pumpkin Puree: The star ingredient, it adds moisture, color, and a subtle sweetness.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the muffins tender and moist without overpowering the pumpkin flavor.
• Eggs: Help bind the batter and give the muffins structure.
• Milk: Adds a bit of moisture and helps blend the batter smoothly.
• Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavors and enhances the warmth of the spices.
• Cinnamon Sugar (for topping): A mix of cinnamon and sugar sprinkled on top before baking adds a sweet, crunchy crust.

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Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup with cooking spray. This ensures your muffins won’t stick and will come out perfectly.

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Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This distributes the spices evenly and prevents clumping.

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Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is smooth and well combined.

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Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this can make the muffins dense instead of fluffy.

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Step 5: Fill the Muffin Cups

Scoop the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. This allows room for the muffins to rise while baking.

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Step 6: Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle a generous amount over the top of each muffin for that classic sweet crunch.

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Step 7: Bake the Muffins

Place the muffin tray in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them around the 18-minute mark to avoid overbaking.

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Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature!

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How Long to Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins

Preparation Time:
The batter comes together quickly in about 15 minutes. Prepping your muffin tin, mixing your wet and dry ingredients, and filling the cups all happen smoothly with minimal cleanup involved. It’s a fast and easy recipe that doesn’t require a mixer or advanced baking skills.

Baking Time:
Once in the oven, the muffins bake for 18 to 22 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them rest in the pan for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.

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Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins

• Don’t overmix the batter; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
• Use room temperature eggs and milk to help the ingredients combine more evenly.
• Make sure your pumpkin puree is not watery if you’re using homemade.
• Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping generously—it forms a delicious crisp layer.
• Fill the muffin cups only 3/4 full to prevent overflow and give them room to rise.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using Pumpkin Pie Filling: It’s too sweet and spiced—always use pure pumpkin puree.
• Overbaking: This leads to dry muffins. Start checking at 18 minutes.
• Skipping the Topping: It’s a key part of the flavor and texture—don’t miss it.
• Overmixing the Batter: It makes the muffins dense rather than tender.
• Not Preheating the Oven: This can throw off your baking time and result in uneven muffins.

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What to Serve With Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins?

1. Hot Coffee or Espresso

The spices in the muffins pair beautifully with a strong, warm coffee or espresso.

2. Maple Butter

Spread a little maple butter on a warm muffin for a decadent, sweet touch.

3. Greek Yogurt with Honey

Add protein to your snack with a bowl of yogurt, lightly sweetened to complement the muffins.

4. Scrambled Eggs

For a full breakfast, pair the muffin with savory eggs to balance the sweetness.

5. Fresh Fruit Salad

Something light and fresh like a citrus or berry salad contrasts beautifully with the warm, cozy muffin flavors.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature:
Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll stay moist thanks to the pumpkin.

Refrigerator:
If your kitchen is warm, keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just let them come to room temperature before eating, or warm slightly in the microwave.

Freezing:
These muffins freeze wonderfully. Once cooled, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or heat in the microwave for a quick treat.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per muffin, estimated values)

• Calories: 220
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 14g
• Protein: 3g
• Sodium: 160mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, just make sure it’s well-pureed and thick. Watery fresh pumpkin may affect texture.

Can these muffins be made vegan?

Absolutely! Use a flax egg in place of regular eggs and dairy-free milk like almond or oat.

Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

Yes, you can cut back slightly on both sugars. The muffins will be less sweet but still flavorful.

Do I have to use both brown and white sugar?

Using both adds depth and moisture, but you can use all of one if needed.

Can I make mini muffins instead?

Sure! Just reduce the baking time to about 12–14 minutes and keep an eye on them.

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Conclusion

Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins are everything I love in a homemade baked good—cozy, fragrant, and simple to make. Whether you’re baking a batch for a fall brunch, meal prep, or just to enjoy with your coffee, they deliver big on flavor and comfort. These muffins are easy enough for beginners and satisfying for seasoned bakers, with endless options for tweaking. One bite, and you’ll see why they deserve a regular spot in your baking rotation.

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