Skip the long lines and save money with these healthier, homemade pumpkin muffins inspired by Starbucks! Made with real pumpkin puree, naturally sweetened with maple syrup, and packed with warming spices, these muffins are a tasty and nutritious option for your morning routine. Topped with a dollop of cream cheese, they’re just as indulgent as the coffee shop favorite, but with healthier ingredients like coconut sugar and the option to use olive oil instead of butter. Perfect for fall baking or any time you’re craving pumpkin goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
These copycat Starbucks pumpkin muffins are a healthier twist on the original, without sacrificing any of the flavor. Made with wholesome ingredients like pumpkin puree and maple syrup, they’re naturally sweetened and packed with nutrients. The cream cheese center adds a rich and creamy touch, while the warm spices give these muffins a cozy, autumnal feel. Whether you’re looking for a snack, breakfast, or dessert, these muffins are perfect for any time of day. Plus, they’re easy to make and store well, making them great for meal prep!
Perfect Occasion:
These muffins are perfect for a cozy fall breakfast or snack, and they’re also great for meal prepping! Whether you’re enjoying them with your morning coffee or serving them at a brunch gathering, they’re sure to be a hit. Bake up a batch for a quick grab-and-go breakfast throughout the week, or serve them warm at holiday parties and family get-togethers. With their delicious flavor and healthier ingredients, these muffins are a great addition to any occasion.
Decoration Tips:
For a bakery-style finish, sprinkle the tops of the muffins with a little cinnamon sugar before baking for added sweetness and crunch. You can also add a few pumpkin seeds or chopped nuts on top for a beautiful and nutritious garnish. If you want to make them extra festive, drizzle a bit of maple glaze over the top once they’ve cooled. For serving, arrange the muffins on a rustic wooden board or a cake stand for a cozy, inviting look.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup melted butter (or substitute with olive oil)
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup sugar (coconut or cane)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin spice
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 8 oz cubed cream cheese (for filling)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners. - Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter (or olive oil), maple syrup, and sugar. Whisk until smooth. Add in the eggs and pumpkin puree, and mix until everything is well incorporated and smooth. - Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, pumpkin spice, baking soda, and baking powder. This ensures the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed throughout the batter. - Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. Stir just until the flour is fully incorporated and the batter is smooth. - Prepare the Muffins:
Scoop the batter into the lined muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 of the way full. Press one cube (about 1 teaspoon) of cream cheese into the center of each muffin, making sure it’s fully submerged in the batter. - Bake:
Bake the muffins in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the muffin (avoiding the cream cheese) comes out clean. The tops should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch. - Cool and Serve:
Let the muffins cool in the tin for about 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Enjoy your healthier version of Starbucks’ iconic pumpkin muffins—perfectly spiced, naturally sweetened, and oh-so-delicious!
Storage Tip:
Store leftover muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the muffins for up to 3 months—just thaw them overnight in the fridge and enjoy them the next morning!
