Name: Delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins That Are Fall Perfect
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Canned Pumpkin Puree (use plain pumpkin puree, not pie filling, for best results.); ½ cup Melted Butter (can swap with vegetable oil.); ¾ cup Granulated Sugar (no direct substitution noted.); 1 large Egg (no substitution noted for eggless version.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (no substitution noted.); 1½ cups All-Purpose Flour (can use 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for gluten sensitivity.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (no substitution noted.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (no substitution noted.); ½ teaspoon Salt (no substitution noted.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (no substitution noted.); ¼ cup Melted Butter (no substitution noted.); ¼ cup Brown Sugar (no direct substitution noted.); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (no substitution noted.); ½ cup Powdered Sugar (no substitution noted.); ½ teaspoon Vanilla Extract (no substitution noted.); 2–3 tablespoons Milk (use more for thinner glaze.)

The lingering aroma of pumpkin spice wafting through my kitchen quickly draws me back to those delightful fall mornings. That’s when I discovered how easy it is to blend the comforting flavors of autumn into a warm, fluffy batch of Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins. These muffins are not only simple to whip up but also bake in a flash, perfect for a cozy breakfast or a sweet afternoon treat. The layers of soft muffin mingled with a spiced cinnamon swirl and a creamy glaze create a warm hug in every bite. If you’re searching for a crowd-pleaser that celebrates fall’s bounty, this recipe will be your go-to! Ready to bring some autumn vibes to your kitchen? Let’s dive into these deliciously easy muffins together!

Why Are These Muffins a Must-Make?

Irresistible Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a cozy, fall-inspired taste that will delight your senses.

Quick and Easy: These muffins are as simple as 1-2-3, making them a perfect choice for busy mornings or last-minute guests.

Soft Texture: Enjoy the luxurious softness that mimics the feel of classic cinnamon rolls, but in muffin form—no lengthy preparation required!

Crowd-Pleasing Treat: They’re perfect for gatherings, easily captivating both kids and adults alike. If you’re looking for more fall favorites, check out my Cinnamon Roll Cookies for another delightful treat.

Flexible Options: You can customize these muffins by adding nuts or swapping spices, giving you endless creative possibilities!

Perfect with Drinks: Serve them warm alongside your favorite coffee or cider for a truly delightful fall experience.

Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffin Ingredients

For the Muffin Batter
• Canned Pumpkin Puree – Provides moisture and flavor; use plain pumpkin puree, not pie filling, for best results.
• Melted Butter (½ cup) – Adds richness and moisture; can swap with vegetable oil.
• Granulated Sugar (¾ cup) – Sweetens the muffins; no direct substitution noted.
• Large Egg (1) – Binds ingredients and adds structure; no substitution noted for eggless version.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Enhances flavor; no substitution noted.
• All-Purpose Flour (1½ cups) – Provides structure; can use 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for gluten sensitivity.
• Baking Soda (1 teaspoon) – Leavening agent for rise; no substitution noted.
• Baking Powder (1 teaspoon) – Additional leavening; no substitution noted.
• Salt (½ teaspoon) – Balances sweetness; no substitution noted.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon) – Provides warm flavor; no substitution noted.

For the Cinnamon Swirl
• Melted Butter (¼ cup) – Creates a rich filling; no substitution noted.
• Brown Sugar (¼ cup) – Adds caramel notes; no direct substitution noted.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon) – Enhances warmth and spice; no substitution noted.

For the Cream Cheese Glaze
• Powdered Sugar (½ cup) – Sweetens the glaze; no substitution noted.
• Vanilla Extract (½ teaspoon) – Adds flavor to the glaze; no substitution noted.
• Milk (2–3 tablespoons) – Adjusts glaze consistency; use more for thinner glaze.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners, which will help keep your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins from sticking and make for easy serving.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of pumpkin puree, ½ cup of melted butter, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk them together until fully blended and smooth, creating a rich and flavorful base for your muffins.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This mixture adds structure and delightful warmth, so set it aside while you prepare to merge the two.

Step 4: Mix Together
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a few lumps in the batter for perfectly fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins. Set the batter aside as you prepare the cinnamon swirl.

Step 5: Prepare Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, mix together ¼ cup of melted butter, ¼ cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon until well combined. This sweet, spiced mixture will create the delicious swirl in your muffins, enhancing their flavor profile beautifully.

Step 6: Fill Muffin Tin
Using a spoon, place a generous scoop of muffin batter into each muffin cup until about halfway full. Drizzle some of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the batter, then add another layer of muffin batter to fill the cups about three-quarters full. You can swirl the cinnamon mixture gently, creating a beautiful pattern.

Step 7: Bake
Carefully place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The muffins are done when they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, filling your kitchen with warm aromas of pumpkin and spices.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze
Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. While they cool, prepare the cream cheese glaze by mixing ½ cup of powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2-3 tablespoons of milk until smooth, then drizzle it over the muffins for a sweet finishing touch.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Indulging in Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins is like savoring a slice of autumn, but pairing them perfectly elevates the experience even more.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery, fluffy potatoes provide a comforting contrast to the spiced muffins, perfect for a cozy fall feast.
Spiced Apple Cider: The warm, fragrant drink enhances the seasonal flavors of the muffins, making each sip feel like a warm hug.
Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai complement the cinnamon roll taste, creating a delightful harmony of flavors with every bite.
Caramel Drizzle Ice Cream: The rich and sweet caramel ice cream pairs beautifully with the muffins’ warm textures, creating a decadent dessert experience.
Maple Pecan Salad: This salad adds a fresh, crunchy contrast, balancing the sweetness of the muffins with earthy flavors and a tangy dressing.
Cheese Platter: An assortment of mild cheeses brings a savory note, providing a delightful contrast to the sweet muffins and enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Cinnamon-Spiced Coffee: Serving hot coffee with a hint of cinnamon will bring out the spice notes in the muffins, making it a cozy start to any morning.

Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins for a personalized touch that will delight your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a gluten-sensitive option.
Nutty Flavor: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delicious crunch and nutty flavor.
Chocolate Delight: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a sweet twist that complements the pumpkin spice beautifully.
Spice Change-Up: Swap the ground cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice to bring a new depth of flavor for those cozy fall evenings.
Mini Muffins: Use a mini muffin tin instead of a standard one; these bite-sized delights will bake quickly and are perfect for sharing!
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Filling: Add a dollop of cream cheese filling inside the muffins for an extra layer of creamy goodness.
Caramel Drizzle: Melt some caramel sauce to drizzle over the top instead of the cream cheese glaze for a rich treat that’s irresistible.
Apple Pie Version: Incorporate ½ cup of diced apples and a sprinkle of nutmeg for a fruity variation that sings autumn!

These variations bring a unique twist to a beloved recipe. If you’re curious about another delightful fall treat, don’t miss my Hawaiian Roll French Toast recipe for breakfast inspiration!

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic mornings! You can prepare the muffin batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the wet and dry ingredients together and store them in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can also pre-measure and mix the cinnamon swirl ingredients, keeping them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, just stir the chilled batter, fill the muffin tin, and swirl in the cinnamon mixture before popping them in the oven. This preparation ensures your muffins maintain their fresh, fluffy texture, delivering the same delicious flavor when baked!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Swirl Technique: Gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter instead of fully combining it; this creates beautiful swirls and prevents an overly mixed texture.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter just until combined to ensure your muffins remain fluffy and tender. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins that lack that soft texture you desire.
Perfect Glaze: Be sure your cream cheese is softened before blending into the glaze; this will make it easier to achieve a smooth consistency for drizzling over your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins.
Cooling Time: Allow your muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them firm up slightly, making it easier to glaze without falling apart.
Storage Tip: Keep any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them unfrosted, allowing you to enjoy them later!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Airtight Container: Store your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness and delightful softness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your muffins without the cream cheese glaze. Wrap each muffin in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy a muffin, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it back up.

Glazing: For the best flavor and texture, drizzle the glaze over the muffins just before serving, ensuring they maintain a delightful creaminess.

Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best canned pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! When choosing canned pumpkin puree, look for pure pumpkin labeled as “100% pumpkin” without any added spices or sweeteners. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it contains additional sugar and spices that can alter your muffin’s flavor and texture. Brands may vary, but if you find a rich, thick texture, you’re on the right track!

What’s the best way to store Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins?
For sure! Store your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh and moist for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, they can be frozen without glaze. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag wrapped in plastic wrap, and they’ll last up to 3 months.

Can I freeze Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each cooled muffin in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. Be sure to label with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or microwave for about 15-20 seconds to warm gently. You can add the glaze after thawing for fresh flavor!

What should I do if my muffins turn out dense?
Very good question! If your muffins are dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter or not measuring the flour properly. Remember, mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined—some lumps are okay! Also, be light with your flour measuring; consider leveling it off rather than packing it into the measuring cup.

Are there any dietary considerations for Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins?
For sure! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, but if you or your guests have allergies, consider that it contains wheat, eggs, and dairy. For eggless versions, consider using a flax egg: mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water, allowing it to sit until it thickens. Always check labels for gluten-free substitutes to ensure everyone can enjoy!

How long are the muffins good for after baking?
Absolutely! After baking, the muffins are best enjoyed within 2 days for optimal freshness. If stored properly, they can last up to 2 days at room temperature. For longer enjoyment, store them in the freezer as mentioned before. Enjoy these delightful treats fresh out of the oven or as a cozy snack!