Ingredients

Let’s break down what goes into these soft, spiced muffins and why each component matters:

Wet Ingredients

1 cup pumpkin puree
The star ingredient. Use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling. It adds moisture, natural sweetness, and a subtle earthy flavor.
1/3 cup granulated sugar & 1/3 cup brown sugar (packed)
A combination of sugars provides the ideal balance: granulated for structure and brown sugar for moisture and a rich molasses note.
1/2 cup vegetable oil
Keeps the muffins tender and ensures a soft crumb without overpowering flavor. You can substitute with melted butter or coconut oil for a richer taste.
2 large eggs
Eggs help bind the ingredients and contribute to the light, fluffy texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Adds a soft, sweet base that enhances the spice flavors.

Dry Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
Provides structure. Spoon and level the flour when measuring to avoid dense muffins.
1 tablespoon baking powder
A leavening agent that helps the muffins rise into beautiful domes.
1 teaspoon cinnamon & 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
These spices bring the warm, cozy flavor profile that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
1/4 teaspoon salt
Enhances the sweetness and brings balance to the overall flavor.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by greasing it lightly with non-stick spray or lining it with paper muffin liners. This helps ensure the muffins come out easily without sticking.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk or hand mixer to blend everything until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.

Tip: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature to help them incorporate evenly into the batter.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This ensures the baking powder and spices are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined—don’t overmix, or the muffins may turn out dense.

Optional: You can fold in chopped pecans, walnuts, or even mini white chocolate chips at this stage for added texture.

Step 5: Portion and Bake

Evenly divide the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Optional Garnish: For a fun cinnamon roll touch, you can drizzle the tops with a quick glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or cream cheese frosting.