Bakery-style Pumpkin Streusel Muffins with a cinnamon topping

Why Make This Recipe

Pumpkin Streusel Muffins are a delightful treat perfect for the fall season. They bring together the lovely flavors of pumpkin and spices, making them a cozy addition to your breakfast or snack time. These muffins also have a sweet and crunchy streusel topping that adds a lovely texture. You can enjoy them warm or at room temperature. Plus, this recipe allows you to whip up these delicious muffins in about 30 minutes, making it great for busy mornings or surprise guests.

How to Make Pumpkin Streusel Muffins

Making Pumpkin Streusel Muffins is straightforward and fun. Here’s how you can do it step by step.

Ingredients

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
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (187.5 grams)
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/3 cup vegetable oil (80 ml)
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) pumpkin puree
1/2 cup powdered sugar (55 grams)
1–2 tablespoons cream or milk

Directions

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your muffins bake evenly.
Line a 12-cavity muffin pan with muffin papers. This makes it easier to remove the muffins once they’re baked.
Make the streusel topping. In a bowl, stir together the flour, brown sugar, white sugar, and cinnamon. Mix until there are no lumps.
Next, add the melted butter to the dry mixture. Stir it in until the mixture looks like damp sand. Set this aside.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Now, in a large bowl, combine the oil, brown sugar, white sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, sour cream, and pumpkin puree. Whisk this mixture until it is smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients from the previous step to the wet ingredients. Do this about half at a time and mix until there are no lumps.
Spoon the batter into the muffin cavities, filling each about three-quarters full.
Take the streusel mixture you made earlier and sprinkle it generously on top of each muffin.
Bake the muffins for 22 to 25 minutes. Check them by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, they’re done!
Once baked, cool the muffins in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
While the muffins are cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar and cream until smooth. Drizzle this mixture over the cooled muffins for a sweet finishing touch.

How to Serve Pumpkin Streusel Muffins

These muffins are best served warm. You can enjoy them straight from the oven, or let them cool and serve them as a snack or dessert. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a great addition to a cozy brunch or a gathering with friends.

How to Store Pumpkin Streusel Muffins

To store your muffins, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Wrap each muffin in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave.

Tips to Make Pumpkin Streusel Muffins

Make sure your pumpkin puree is pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, as the sweetener and spices are already added in the latter.
Measure your flour properly. Too much flour can make muffins dense. Use a spoon to scoop flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
Feel free to adjust the amount of spices according to your taste. If you love cinnamon, add a little more!

Variation

You can add chocolate chips or nuts like walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra flavor and texture. This makes the muffins even more special!

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just cook and puree the pumpkin before adding it to your mixture.

2. Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake them and store them for a few days, or you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it overnight, then bake them fresh in the morning.

3. What if I don’t have sour cream?
You can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt or buttermilk. These ingredients will work well in keeping the muffins moist.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Streusel Muffins are a fantastic way to celebrate fall flavors. With their moist texture and sweet, crunchy topping, they are perfect for any time of day. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these muffins are sure to please everyone. Plus, they are quick and easy to make, making them an excellent choice for beginner cooks looking to impress family and friends. Enjoy your baking!