Fluffy Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe For Fall

Whipping up these delectable Starbucks pumpkin cream cheese muffins brings autumn’s warmth right into your kitchen.

Seasonal spices dance through soft, tender crumbs waiting to surprise you.

Creamy cheese centers create unexpected bursts of richness within each bite.

Mornings become magical when these fragrant treats emerge from your oven, promising comfort and indulgence.

Bakery-style perfection awaits with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Baking enthusiasts and pumpkin lovers unite around this delightful recipe that captures the essence of cozy fall mornings.

You’ll want to savor every single crumb of these irresistible muffins.

Proper Storage Advice For Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

• Store muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap to maintain moisture and prevent them from drying out.
• Place cooled muffins in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat briefly in the microwave for a quick breakfast or snack.
• Keep muffins at room temperature for 1-2 days in a sealed container. Place a paper towel at the bottom to absorb excess moisture and prevent soggy bottoms.
• Separate each muffin with parchment paper before storing. This prevents them from sticking together and makes it easier to grab a single muffin when craving a treat.

FAQs

• Why should I not overmix the batter?

Overmixing causes gluten development, which makes muffins tough and dense instead of light and fluffy. Gently mix until ingredients are just combined to maintain a tender texture.

• Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but replace only half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to maintain the muffin’s soft texture. Using 100% whole wheat flour will result in a denser, heavier muffin.

• What are pepitas, and where can I find them?

Pepitas are hulled pumpkin seeds commonly found in the baking or international sections of grocery stores, or in bulk food stores. They add a delicious crunch and nutty flavor to the muffin topping.

Starbucks Style Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

• Streamline Dinner Prep: Transform traditional lasagna into a one-pot wonder that cuts down cooking steps and cleanup time.
• Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by adding optional ingredients like red pepper flakes or different cheese varieties to match your taste preferences.
• Kid-Approved Comfort Food: Create a crowd-pleasing meal that combines the classic lasagna flavors kids love with a simple, hearty cooking method.
• Quick Family Meal Solution: Deliver a satisfying dinner that comes together faster than traditional layered lasagna, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients Needed For Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

• Cream Cheese: A smooth and rich base that adds creamy texture to the muffin center.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and balances the tangy cream cheese.
• Vanilla Extract: Provides a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances the cream cheese filling.

• All-Purpose Flour: The primary structure and base for the muffin's tender crumb.
• Baking Soda, Baking Powder: Essential leavening agents that help the muffins rise and become light.
• Salt: Enhances and balances the overall flavor of the muffins.
• Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves, Ginger: Warm spices that create the signature pumpkin spice flavor profile.

• Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Provide sweetness and moisture to the muffins.
• Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture, color, and classic autumn flavor to the muffins.
• Vegetable Oil: Ensures a moist and tender muffin texture.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and provide structure to the muffins.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the overall flavor.

• Pepitas: Crunchy pumpkin seeds that add texture and nutty flavor.
• Cinnamon Sugar: A sweet and spicy sprinkle that enhances the muffin's appearance and taste.

How To Prepare Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Step 1: Whip the Creamy Filling

Beat softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until silky smooth. Set this delightful mixture aside while you prepare the muffin batter.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

• Flour
• Baking soda
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Cloves
• Ginger

Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients

• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Pumpkin puree
• Vegetable oil
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract

Stir until the mixture looks beautifully blended and consistent.

Step 4: Create Muffin Batter

Gently fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients.

Mix just until combined – avoid overmixing to keep your muffins tender and light.

Step 5: Prepare Baking Station

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Line muffin tin with paper liners or spray with cooking spray.

Step 6: Fill and Stuff Muffins

Pour pumpkin batter into muffin cups, filling about two-thirds full.

Dollop cream cheese filling into the center of each muffin, pressing slightly into the batter.

Step 7: Add Crunchy Topping

Sprinkle pepitas mixed with cinnamon and sugar over muffin tops for extra crunch and flavor.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 18-22 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick near the edge (avoiding cream cheese center) – it should come out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Let muffins rest in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Allow to cool completely before devouring these autumn-inspired treats.

Helpful Tips For Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

• Prevent overmixing the batter to keep muffins tender and light, stirring just until ingredients are combined for the best texture.
• Use room temperature cream cheese and eggs to ensure smooth, lump-free filling and better ingredient integration.
• Choose fresh, high-quality spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to enhance the pumpkin flavor and create a rich, aromatic profile.
• Line muffin tins with paper liners or grease thoroughly to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
• Allow muffins to cool completely before storing to maintain their moisture and prevent condensation from making them soggy.

Flavorful Twists For Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

• Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins: Replace wheat flour with almond or coconut flour for a gluten-free version that maintains the rich, spiced flavor profile.
• Vegan Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins: Substitute eggs with flax eggs, use vegan cream cheese, and swap dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives for a completely plant-friendly treat.
• Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins: Fold dark chocolate chips into the batter for an extra indulgent version that adds decadent chocolate notes to the classic recipe.
• Nutty Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins: Mix chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter and sprinkle on top for added crunch and nutty depth of flavor.

Ideal Pairings For Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

• Autumn Breakfast Delight: Serve these warm muffins alongside a steaming cup of coffee for a cozy morning treat. The cream cheese center creates a delightful surprise with each bite.
• Dessert Platter Showstopper: Arrange muffins on a rustic wooden board with additional pepitas scattered around. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch that makes guests feel special.
• Afternoon Tea Companion: Pack these muffins in a cute tin for a picnic or afternoon tea. They travel well and provide a perfect sweet pick-me-up that pairs beautifully with herbal tea or hot chocolate.
• Gift from the Kitchen: Wrap individual muffins in parchment paper tied with twine. These make charming homemade gifts that showcase your baking skills and spread autumn warmth to friends and family.

Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe

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4.9 from 28 reviews

• Total Time: 42 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Starbucks pumpkin cream cheese muffins blend autumn’s warmth with creamy indulgence in a single treat. Homemade versions let bakers recreate this beloved cafe classic with simple ingredients and delightful results.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Whip cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until silky and uniform, creating a luxurious filling. Reserve for later assembly.
2. Heat oven to 350F, preparing a muffin tin with liners or cooking spray for optimal non-stick performance.
3. Combine dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl: flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Blend thoroughly to distribute seasonings evenly.
4. In a separate vessel, thoroughly integrate granulated and brown sugars with pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until achieving a smooth, cohesive mixture.
5. Gently fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients, mixing minimally to prevent gluten development. Maintain a light, tender texture by avoiding overmixing.
6. Distribute pumpkin batter into muffin cups, filling approximately two-thirds of each compartment.
7. Delicately introduce a dollop of prepared cream cheese filling into the center of each muffin, softly pressing to nestle within the batter.
8. Embellish muffin tops with a sprinkle of pepitas blended with cinnamon and sugar for a crunchy, aromatic finish.
9. Bake for 18-22 minutes, monitoring for a clean toothpick test when inserted near the muffin’s edge.
10. Allow muffins to rest briefly in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack for complete cooling, ensuring optimal texture and flavor development.

Notes

• Prevent overmixing the batter to maintain a tender, light muffin texture by gently folding ingredients until just combined.
• Create a gluten-free version by substituting all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for those with dietary restrictions.
• Enhance the cream cheese filling’s stability by chilling it briefly before adding to the muffin centers, which helps prevent spreading during baking.
• Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer preservation, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 22 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 65
• Sugar: 4.9 g
• Sodium: 60 mg
• Fat: 6.5 g
• Saturated Fat: 4.0 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2.4 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 5.0 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 1.2 g
• Cholesterol: 21 mg