Pumpkin Crumb Muffins: The Ultimate Fall Treat

Autumn has arrived, and with it comes the irresistible aroma of pumpkin spice! What better way to celebrate the season than with a batch of warm, delicious Pumpkin Crumb Muffins? These delightful muffins combine the moist, spiced goodness of pumpkin bread with the delightful crunch of a buttery oat crumble topping. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, an afternoon snack, or even a delightful dessert. Imagine biting into a soft, tender muffin, bursting with the flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg, topped with a heavenly crumble that adds a satisfying textural contrast. This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even for beginner bakers, and delivers consistently outstanding results. Get ready to experience the ultimate fall baking indulgence with these irresistible Pumpkin Crumb Muffins!

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Crumb Muffins Recipe

These Pumpkin Crumb Muffins are more than just a delicious treat; they’re a comforting hug in a muffin tin. There are so many reasons why you’ll absolutely adore this recipe:

• Unbelievably Easy: The recipe is straightforward and simple, perfect for both experienced bakers and those just starting their culinary adventures. The steps are clear and concise, minimizing the chances of any baking mishaps.
• Perfectly Moist & Spiced: The pumpkin puree creates an incredibly moist and tender crumb, while the warm spices of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves deliver that quintessential fall flavor profile. These muffins are the epitome of autumnal deliciousness.
• Irresistibly Crunchy Crumble: The oat crumble topping is the star of the show! It adds a delightful textural contrast to the soft muffin base, offering a burst of buttery, sweet, and nutty flavor with every bite. It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes.
• Versatile & Adaptable: This recipe serves as an excellent base for customization. Feel free to experiment with different nuts, spices, or even add chocolate chips for an extra decadent twist. The possibilities are endless!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: These Pumpkin Crumb Muffins are fantastic for meal prepping. They store well in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or can be frozen for longer storage. Grab one for a quick and satisfying treat whenever you need a fall pick-me-up.
• Perfect for Sharing (or Not!): These muffins are a crowd-pleaser, making them ideal for potlucks, bake sales, or simply sharing with loved ones. But let’s be honest, they’re so good, you might want to keep them all to yourself!

Why You Should Try This Pumpkin Crumb Muffins Recipe

In a world of countless baking recipes, this one stands out for its exceptional taste, ease of preparation, and incredible versatility. Here’s why you should give these Pumpkin Crumb Muffins a try:

• Exceptional Flavor Combination: The blend of pumpkin puree, warming spices, and the sweet and crunchy crumble creates a harmonious symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s a true autumnal masterpiece.
• Time-Saving Convenience: Busy schedules shouldn’t stop you from enjoying delicious homemade treats. This recipe is quick and easy, requiring minimal preparation time and delivering maximum flavor.
• Impress Your Guests: These muffins are guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Their beautiful appearance and exquisite taste will make you the star baker of any gathering.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual breakfasts to elegant brunches, these Pumpkin Crumb Muffins are the ideal addition to any meal or celebration. Their versatility makes them perfect for any occasion.
• A Taste of Autumn: Embrace the season’s bounty with these flavorful muffins. They capture the essence of fall, bringing warmth and comfort to your table. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the cozy autumn vibes.
• A Recipe You’ll Return To: Once you’ve tasted these Pumpkin Crumb Muffins, you’ll be making them again and again. They’re that good! They’re a recipe that will become a staple in your fall baking repertoire.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Pumpkin Crumb Muffins

Gathering the right ingredients and having the correct tools on hand will ensure a smooth and successful baking experience. Let’s delve into the specifics:

Ingredients:

This recipe yields approximately 12 standard-sized muffins.

For the Muffins:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend for a gluten-free version – see variations below)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – essential for leavening
• ½ teaspoon baking powder – another leavening agent for a light texture
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – classic pumpkin spice flavor
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg – adds warmth and complexity
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves – a subtle yet important spice
• ¼ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (canned is fine; make sure it’s 100% pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar (or a sugar substitute like coconut sugar for a healthier option)
• ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil for a vegan version)
• 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan version – see variations below)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor

For the Crumble Topping:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
• ½ cup rolled oats (quick-cooking or old-fashioned)
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar (adds moisture and caramel notes)
• ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional, but highly recommended! Can substitute with other nuts or seeds)
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – complements the muffin spice
• ¼ cup (½ stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces – essential for the crumble texture

Necessary Utensils:

• Two large mixing bowls: One for the wet ingredients and one for the dry.
• Whisk: For thoroughly combining the ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurement – crucial for baking!
• Pastry blender or your fingers: To cut the cold butter into the crumble topping mixture. A fork works well too.
• 12-cup muffin tin: Standard size muffin tins are ideal. Consider using a silicone muffin tin for easier cleanup.
• Paper muffin liners: These are highly recommended for easy removal and to prevent sticking. They also make the muffins look extra pretty!
• Wooden skewer or toothpick: To test for doneness.
• Wire rack: To cool the muffins completely after baking.
• Spatula or spoon: For filling the muffin cups and spreading the crumble topping.

Detailed Recipe Steps for Pumpkin Crumb Muffins

Now, let’s get baking! Follow these detailed steps to create your perfect Pumpkin Crumb Muffins:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial for even baking. Make sure your oven is preheated before you start baking to ensure perfect results.
2. Prepare the muffin tin: Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease the tin well with cooking spray or butter. This prevents the muffins from sticking and makes for easy removal.
3. Make the muffin batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. **Ensure all the dry ingredients are well combined.** This step is essential for even distribution of leavening agents and spices.
4. Combine the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. **Make sure the eggs are at room temperature for optimal mixing and batter consistency.** Whisk until smooth and well blended.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently with a spatula or spoon until just combined. **Do not overmix.** Overmixing can lead to tough muffins. A few lumps are perfectly acceptable.
6. Prepare the crumble topping: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, pecans (if using), and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. **The butter should be very cold to ensure a flaky crumble.**
7. Assemble the muffins: Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full with the pumpkin batter. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the batter. Don’t be shy with the topping!
8. Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. **Start checking for doneness around the 18-minute mark.** Oven temperatures can vary, so keep an eye on them.
9. Cool: Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from becoming soggy. Enjoy your warm, delicious Pumpkin Crumb Muffins!

Tips and Variations for Pumpkin Crumb Muffins

Experimenting with this recipe is half the fun! Here are some tips and variations to elevate your Pumpkin Crumb Muffins:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom to the muffin batter for an extra layer of warmth and complexity.
• Nutty variations: Swap the pecans or walnuts for other nuts like almonds, hazelnuts, or macadamia nuts. You can even use a mix!
• Chocolate indulgence: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful chocolate pumpkin combination. Dark chocolate chips are particularly delicious!
• Vegan adaptation: Replace the eggs with 2 flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg) and the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.
• Gluten-free goodness: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure it’s a blend designed for baking, as some gluten-free blends require adjustments to liquid content.
• Avoid overmixing: This is crucial for tender muffins. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough muffins. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
• Don’t overbake: Overbaked muffins will be dry. Start checking for doneness around 18 minutes and use the toothpick test to ensure they are perfectly baked.
• Room temperature ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and butter will create a smoother batter and a more even bake.

For more delicious pumpkin recipes, check out our Moist Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread or our Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins!

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Pumpkin Crumb Muffins

While indulging in these delicious Pumpkin Crumb Muffins, it’s helpful to understand their nutritional value and the benefits of the key ingredients. Note that exact nutritional information will vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. These are approximate values per muffin:

• Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Protein: Approximately 3-4 grams
• Fat: Approximately 12-15 grams
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-40 grams

Benefits of Key Ingredients:

• Pumpkin Puree: Rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and fiber. It adds moisture and sweetness to the muffins, contributing to a healthier and more satisfying treat.
• Oats: A good source of fiber, which aids in digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. They contribute to the satisfying crunch of the crumble topping.
• Nuts (Pecans/Walnuts): Excellent sources of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They add flavor and texture to the crumble topping, enhancing the overall nutritional value.
• Spices (Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves): These spices have potential anti-inflammatory properties and offer a range of health benefits. They add warmth and flavor to the muffins, enhancing the sensory experience.

Remember that these Pumpkin Crumb Muffins are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

FAQs

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Pumpkin Crumb Muffins!

These Pumpkin Crumb Muffins are the perfect embodiment of fall baking: warm, comforting, and utterly delicious. Their moist texture, delightful spices, and irresistible crumble topping make them a true autumnal delight. From the ease of preparation to the endless possibilities for customization, this recipe is a winner for bakers of all skill levels. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your creations with us in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family on social media – and pin it to your Pinterest boards for later! Check out our other amazing fall recipes on our blog here!

Happy baking, and enjoy the deliciousness of these Pumpkin Crumb Muffins! Don’t hesitate to share your experiences and variations in the comments section. We’d love to hear from you! Also, follow us on Pinterest for more delicious recipes! Pinterest

Pumpkin Crumb Muffins: A Delicious Fall Treat

These moist and flavorful pumpkin muffins are topped with a crunchy pecan crumble. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 12 muffins

Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Muffin Batter

• 1.5 cups All-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Baking soda
• 0.5 teaspoon Baking powder
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground nutmeg
• 0.25 teaspoon Ground cloves
• 0.25 teaspoon Salt
• 1 cup Pumpkin puree
• 0.75 cup Granulated sugar
• 0.5 cup Vegetable oil
• 2 Large eggs
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract

Crumble Topping

• 0.5 cup All-purpose flour
• 0.5 cup Rolled oats
• 0.5 cup Packed brown sugar
• 0.25 cup Chopped pecans Optional
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• 0.25 cup Cold unsalted butter (½ stick), cut into small pieces

Equipment

• Mixing Bowls
• Muffin Tin
• Pastry blender or fork
• Wooden Skewer

Method

 

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease well.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt for the muffin batter.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. For the crumble topping: In a medium bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, pecans (if using), and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
6. Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full with the pumpkin batter. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the batter.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in the muffin batter. You can also add chocolate chips or raisins to the batter for added sweetness and texture. Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.