Name: Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup canned pumpkin puree; ½ cup melted butter (or vegetable oil); ¾ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; ¼ cup melted butter (for swirl); ¼ cup brown sugar (for swirl); 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for swirl); ½ cup powdered sugar (for glaze); ½ tsp vanilla extract (for glaze); 2–3 tbsp milk (for glaze)

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These Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins combine the cozy flavors of fall—pumpkin, cinnamon, and a sweet cream cheese glaze—into soft, fluffy muffins that are easy to make and perfect for any time of day.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Warm fall flavors: With pumpkin, cinnamon, and a brown sugar swirl, these muffins capture the essence of autumn.
Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this an accessible treat for any baker.
Cream cheese glaze: A light drizzle elevates these muffins with creamy sweetness.
Perfect texture: Moist and fluffy with a tender crumb.
Freezer-friendly: Great for meal prepping or make-ahead breakfasts.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Muffin Batter

1 cup canned pumpkin puree
½ cup melted butter (or vegetable oil)
¾ cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon

Cinnamon Swirl

¼ cup melted butter
¼ cup brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon

Cream Cheese Glaze

½ cup powdered sugar
½ tsp vanilla extract
2–3 tablespoon milk

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or spray with nonstick spray.
In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, melted butter, sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon to make the swirl mixture.
Fill each muffin cup halfway with batter. Spoon a bit of the cinnamon swirl mixture over the top, then add more batter to cover. Use a toothpick to swirl lightly.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the tops are golden.
While the muffins are cooling, whisk together the glaze ingredients until smooth.
Drizzle the glaze over the slightly cooled muffins and allow it to set before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 muffins
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Spiced up: Add a pinch of nutmeg, cloves, or allspice for deeper autumn flavor.
Nutty swirl: Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the cinnamon swirl.
Hearty option: Swap up to half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat.
Dairy-free: Use plant-based milk in the glaze and vegan butter in the batter.

Storage/Reheating

Room temperature: Store muffins in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Keep in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Warm briefly before serving.
Freezer: Freeze unfrosted muffins for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.
Reheat: Microwave for 10–15 seconds to soften.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, just be sure it’s cooked and well-puréed with a similar moisture level to canned.

Can I skip the cinnamon swirl?

You can, but it adds great flavor and texture—highly recommended!

How do I prevent dense muffins?

Don’t overmix the batter; stir just until combined.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just bake in two muffin tins or in batches.

Can I use muffin liners?

Absolutely. Liners make for easier cleanup and better presentation.

Are these muffins sweet enough without the glaze?

Yes, the muffins are sweet and flavorful even without the glaze.

Can I use a different glaze?

Try a maple glaze or just a dusting of powdered sugar.

What can I use instead of cream cheese in the glaze?

Use plain milk for a simple glaze or a dairy-free substitute if needed.

Can I make these muffins vegan?

Substitute the egg with a flax egg and use dairy-free butter and milk.

What’s the best way to swirl the cinnamon mixture?

Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl in a circular motion.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are the perfect fusion of cozy spices, soft pumpkin bread, and rich cream cheese glaze. Easy to make and full of flavor, they’re a must-try for fall or any time you crave something sweet and comforting.

Maggie