Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins

Save this recipe on:

Pumpkin season is my absolute favorite. Every year, as soon as the air turns crisp and cozy sweaters make their way out of storage, I head to the kitchen to whip up something warm, spiced, and comforting. One of the recipes I reach for time and time again is this one for Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins. They’re the perfect balance of moist, fluffy, and sweet, with a crunchy cinnamon sugar top that makes every bite irresistible.

These muffins are a staple in my fall baking rotation—not only because they taste like autumn in a bite, but because they’re incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re baking for a weekend brunch, packing a lunchbox treat, or just want something to pair with your afternoon coffee, these muffins never disappoint. Trust me, once you try one, you’ll want to keep a batch around all season long.

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins Recipe

This recipe brings out the best of pumpkin flavor with the warm hug of cinnamon and sugar. The texture is soft and tender, yet holds up beautifully. And let’s talk about that topping—a sparkly, crunchy layer of cinnamon sugar that takes these from good to absolutely crave-worthy. Plus, the recipe comes together with simple pantry ingredients and doesn’t require a mixer. It’s quick, cozy, and always a crowd-pleaser.

---

What Kind of Pumpkin Should I Use?

For the best results, I recommend using canned pumpkin puree—not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin puree is 100% pumpkin, while pumpkin pie filling includes added sugars and spices that can throw off the flavor and moisture levels in the muffins. If you want to go the extra mile, you can roast and puree your own pumpkin, but for convenience and consistency, canned works wonderfully.

---

Options for Substitutions

You can easily make these muffins your own with a few simple swaps:

• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the milk with almond milk or oat milk, and use a plant-based butter.
• Egg-Free: Replace each egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water, mixed and rested).
• Lower Sugar: Reduce the sugar slightly or swap with coconut sugar for a more natural option.
• Add-ins: Stir in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries to mix up the flavor and texture.

---

Ingredients for this Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins Recipe

• Pumpkin Puree: The star of the recipe, giving the muffins their signature flavor and moisture.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure and soft crumb for the muffins.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create the crunchy cinnamon sugar topping.
• Brown Sugar: Deepens the flavor with molasses notes and adds moisture.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the muffins extra moist and tender.
• Eggs: Binds the ingredients together and helps the muffins rise.
• Milk: Loosens the batter and adds to the moist texture.
• Baking Soda & Baking Powder: Both are needed for optimal rise and fluffiness.
• Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
• Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Cloves: The spice trio that delivers that warm, fall flavor.
• Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavors with a soft, aromatic note.
• Cinnamon Sugar (for topping): Adds that irresistible, crunchy-sweet top layer.

---

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners. This ensures the muffins bake evenly and don’t stick.

---

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This helps distribute the leavening and spices evenly.

---

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, oil, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

---

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the muffins soft.

---

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tins

Scoop the batter evenly into the lined muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. This allows room for the muffins to rise without overflowing.

---

Step 6: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, mix together a few tablespoons of granulated sugar with cinnamon. Sprinkle generously over each muffin before baking.

---

Step 7: Bake the Muffins

Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

---

Step 8: Serve or Store

Enjoy the muffins warm, or let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They taste even better the next day!

---

How Long to Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins

Prep Time: Preparing the batter takes about 15–20 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients, measuring, and mixing the wet and dry components separately. It’s a simple, no-fuss process with no need for fancy equipment.

Bake Time: Once in the oven, the muffins need about 18–22 minutes to bake. Always check with a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, they’re ready. Cooling takes another 10 minutes before serving or storing.

---

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins

• Don’t overmix the batter—just stir until combined to keep the texture tender.
• Use room temperature eggs and milk to ensure a smoother blend.
• For an extra flavorful topping, sprinkle cinnamon sugar halfway through baking and again right after baking.
• Use a cookie scoop for even-sized muffins.
• Let muffins cool slightly before removing from the pan to avoid crumbling.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using pumpkin pie filling instead of puree: This adds too much sugar and spice.
• Overbaking: It dries out the muffins. Always check for doneness early.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Scooping directly from the bag can lead to dense muffins. Spoon and level instead.
• Skipping the cinnamon sugar topping: It makes a huge difference in flavor and texture.
• Not letting them cool: Muffins firm up slightly and taste better once they’ve cooled a bit.

---

What to Serve With Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins?

1. Hot Coffee or Chai

The warm spices in chai or a cup of dark coffee pair beautifully with the muffin’s cinnamon and pumpkin flavors.

2. Greek Yogurt Parfait

Add a refreshing and protein-rich side to balance out the sweetness.

3. Scrambled Eggs

Serve for a more complete breakfast—savory eggs and sweet muffins are a great combo.

4. Apple Slices with Peanut Butter

A kid-friendly, crunchy, and healthy pairing.

5. Butternut Squash Soup

Sounds unusual, but the sweet-savory mix is cozy and comforting for a fall meal.

---

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store muffins in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. They stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Refrigerator: If you need to store them longer, refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 1 week. Reheat before serving to refresh texture.

Freezer: Muffins freeze wonderfully. Wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a ziplock bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 20–30 seconds.

---

Estimated Nutrition (per muffin, approx.)

• Calories: 220
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Sugar: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 170mg

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these muffins ahead of time?

Yes! They store very well and taste just as good (if not better) the next day.

Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?

Absolutely. Just make sure it’s not too watery—drain excess moisture if needed.

How can I make mini muffins instead?

Use a mini muffin tin and reduce baking time to 10–12 minutes. Watch closely near the end.

Do I need to refrigerate leftovers?

Only if you’re keeping them more than 2–3 days. Otherwise, room temperature is fine.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double it—just make sure to mix gently and bake in batches.

---

Conclusion

Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins are one of those magical recipes that feel like a hug in muffin form. They’re easy enough for everyday baking and special enough to share at fall gatherings. Whether you’re a pumpkin lover or just want to try something cozy and delicious, these muffins are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for warmth, spice, and sweetness in every bite.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: