Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins: A Fall Baking Delight

Name: Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 42 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Pumpkin Puree ((not pumpkin pie filling)); 0.5 cup Milk ((any kind)); 0.25 cup Vegetable Oil; 2 Large Eggs; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1.5 cups Granulated Sugar; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; 0.5 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg; 0.25 teaspoon Ground Cloves; 0.25 teaspoon Salt; 2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour; 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter ((softened)); 0.5 cup Packed Light Brown Sugar; 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon; 4 ounces Cream Cheese ((softened)); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter ((softened)); 2 cups Powdered Sugar; 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 2 tablespoons Milk ((more as needed))

BY :

Liana

Posted On :

August 23, 2025

BREAKFAST

Autumn’s arrival brings a wave of cozy comfort, and what better way to embrace the season than with a batch of warm, delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins? These muffins aren’t your average pumpkin bread; they’re a delightful fusion of fluffy pumpkin muffins and the irresistible swirls of cinnamon rolls. Imagine the soft, spiced pumpkin cake studded with pockets of sweet, cinnamon-sugar goodness, all nestled in a perfectly portioned muffin. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for breakfast, brunch, an afternoon snack, or even dessert! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are incredibly easy to make, and the results are undeniably rewarding. Get ready to experience a taste of fall that will leave you wanting more.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe

This recipe isn’t just about making delicious muffins; it’s about creating an experience. There are several reasons why you’ll fall in love with these Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins:

Ease of preparation: Unlike traditional cinnamon rolls that require time-consuming rolling and shaping, these muffins are remarkably simple to assemble. The process is quick and straightforward, perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend baking project.
Individual portions: Muffin-sized treats make for perfect portion control. No more wrestling with oversized cinnamon rolls each muffin is the ideal bite-sized delight.
Delicious flavor combination: The marriage of pumpkin spice and cinnamon roll filling is a match made in autumn heaven. The warm spices perfectly complement the moist pumpkin batter, creating a symphony of flavors that’s utterly irresistible.
Customization options: Feel free to experiment with different variations. Add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce to create your own signature muffins. Check out these pumpkin chocolate brownies for another delicious fall treat!
Make-ahead potential: These muffins can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or frozen for longer storage. This makes them perfect for meal prepping or entertaining guests.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a cozy breakfast, a festive brunch, or a delightful dessert, these Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are always a welcome addition to any gathering. They’re also a fantastic option for bake sales or potlucks.

Why You Should Try This Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe

Beyond the deliciousness, there are compelling reasons to add this recipe to your fall baking repertoire:

Seasonal indulgence: Embrace the flavors of autumn with this seasonal treat. Pumpkin spice is a hallmark of fall, and these muffins capture its essence perfectly.
Shareable delight: These muffins are perfect for sharing with friends, family, or colleagues. They’re a wonderful way to spread joy and warmth during the cooler months.
Perfect for gifting: Bake a batch and present them as a thoughtful homemade gift for neighbors, teachers, or loved ones. They’re sure to be a hit!
Improves baking skills: This recipe is a great way to hone your baking skills, especially if you’re new to working with pumpkin puree. The instructions are clear and simple, ensuring a successful outcome.
Stress-free baking: The recipe is designed for ease and simplicity. Even beginners can master this recipe, reducing the stress often associated with baking.
Memories in the making: Baking is a wonderful way to connect with loved ones. Involve your family or friends in the process, creating cherished memories while enjoying the delicious outcome together.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Gathering the right ingredients and tools is crucial for baking success. Here’s a detailed list to ensure you’re well-prepared:

Ingredients:

For the Muffins:

1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) – Essential for the signature pumpkin flavor and moist texture. Choose a good quality puree for the best results.
1/2 cup milk (any kind) – Adds moisture and helps create a tender crumb. Almond milk or oat milk are great dairy-free alternatives.
1/4 cup vegetable oil – Contributes to moisture and a soft texture. Use any neutral-flavored oil.
2 large eggs – Bind the ingredients together and add richness. Flax eggs can be used as a vegan substitute.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile. Use pure vanilla extract for the best results.
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar – Sweetens the muffins and balances the spices. You can adjust this amount to your liking.
1 teaspoon baking soda – The leavening agent that creates a light and fluffy texture. Make sure it’s fresh.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – A cornerstone of pumpkin spice flavor. Use Ceylon cinnamon for a milder, sweeter flavor.
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Adds warmth and complexity to the spice blend. Freshly grated nutmeg is preferable.
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves – Provides a subtle, warm, and slightly pungent note.
1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure to the muffins. You can substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

For the Cinnamon Filling:

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened – Creates a creamy, flavorful filling. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture to the filling. Dark brown sugar can also be used for a deeper molasses flavor.
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – The star of the cinnamon filling. Use a good quality cinnamon for the best flavor.

For the Cream Cheese Glaze (optional):

4 ounces cream cheese, softened – Creates a creamy and tangy glaze. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and creaminess to the glaze.
2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the glaze and provides its characteristic texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the glaze.
2-3 tablespoons milk – Adjusts the consistency of the glaze. Use milk or a plant-based milk alternative.

Recommended Utensils:

Large mixing bowls (at least two)
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula or wooden spoon
12-cup muffin tin
Muffin liners (paper or silicone)
Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer, optional but recommended for the cream cheese glaze and cinnamon filling)
Toothpick or knife
Wire rack
Baking sheet (for added stability in the oven)

Detailed Recipe Steps for Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Follow these steps carefully for perfectly baked Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins:

Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. This ensures even baking and easy removal of the muffins. For a similar fall delight, try these Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins!
Make the Cinnamon Filling: In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. An electric mixer makes this step easier, but you can also achieve this with a sturdy spatula and some elbow grease. Stir in the cinnamon until evenly distributed. **Set aside.**
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, milk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. This ensures a smooth and uniform batter.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Whisk thoroughly to avoid clumps and ensure even distribution of spices.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. **Do not overmix.** Overmixing develops gluten and can result in tough muffins. A few lumps are okay.
Assemble the Muffins: Fill each muffin cup about 2/3 full with batter. Dollop about 1 tablespoon of the cinnamon filling on top of each muffin. Swirl gently with a knife or toothpick to create a marbled effect. Don’t over-swirl; you want to preserve some distinct cinnamon swirls.
Bake: Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes, as ovens can vary. If the tops start to brown too quickly, you can loosely tent them with foil.
Cool: Let the muffins cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from sticking and allows them to cool evenly.
Make the Cream Cheese Glaze (optional): While the muffins are cooling, prepare the cream cheese glaze. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and milk until you reach your desired consistency. **Add milk one tablespoon at a time to control the consistency.**
Glaze and Enjoy: Once the muffins are completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top. Enjoy your warm, delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins!

Tips and Variations for Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Here are some tips and variations to elevate your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins experience:

Ingredient Alternatives:
- Milk: Use almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, or any other plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
- Eggs: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) for a vegan version.
- Flour: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Sugar: Reduce sugar if you prefer a less sweet muffin. You can substitute with maple syrup or coconut sugar.
Add-ins:
- Nuts: Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even pumpkin seeds would add a delightful crunch.
- Chocolate chips: A touch of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips will complement the spices.
- Dried cranberries or raisins: Add some festive fall flavors and texture.
Avoiding Common Mistakes:
- Overmixing: Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to tough muffins. Mix until just combined.
- Underbaking: Ensure the muffins are baked through by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean.
- Using cold ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for best results.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

While these muffins are undeniably indulgent, they also offer some nutritional benefits:

(Note: Nutritional information is an approximation and can vary based on specific ingredients used.)

Approximate Nutritional Values per muffin (without glaze):

Calories: Approximately 250-300
Protein: Approximately 4-5 grams
Fat: Approximately 12-15 grams
Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-40 grams

Benefits of Ingredients:

Pumpkin Puree: Rich in Vitamin A, beta-carotene, and fiber, contributing to healthy skin, vision, and digestion.
Cinnamon: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels.
Nutmeg: Contains antioxidants and may have anti-inflammatory benefits.
Whole wheat flour (optional): Provides more fiber compared to all-purpose flour, aiding digestion.

Remember that this is a treat, so moderation is key. Enjoy these muffins as part of a balanced diet.

FAQs

Can I make these Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins ahead of time?

Yes! Baked Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. Allow them to cool completely before storing.

Are these Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins gluten-free?

The recipe as written is not gluten-free, but you can easily adapt it by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Be sure to check the label of your chosen blend for accurate measurements.

What kind of pumpkin puree should I use?

Use 100% pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling already contains spices and sugar, which will alter the flavor profile of your muffins.

Can I use a different type of sugar?

You can experiment with different sugars, such as brown sugar, coconut sugar, or maple syrup. However, keep in mind that this might slightly change the taste and texture. Start by substituting a portion of the granulated sugar to avoid a drastic change.

How do I know when the muffins are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean, or with just a few moist crumbs, the muffins are done. If there is batter clinging to the toothpick, bake for a few more minutes and check again.

Conclusion

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are more than just a recipe; they’re a delightful autumn experience. The ease of preparation, the incredible flavor combination, and the versatility make them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try. Share your baking journey with us in the comments below, and don’t forget to share your stunning creations on social media using #PumpkinCinnamonRollMuffins! Let us know your favorite variations and add-ins. Happy baking!

For more delicious recipes, be sure to check out our other recipes on RecipesLiana. We have a wide variety of recipes to choose from, including sweet treats and savory dishes. Enjoy!

Check out our Pinterest board for more fall baking inspiration: Pinterest