Name: Pumpkin Muffins with Maple Cream Cheese Filling
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 24 min
Total time: 39 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar; 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree; 2 eggs; 1/4 cup milk; 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping); 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping); 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (for topping); 3/4 cup heavy cream (for filling); 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (for filling); 1/4 cup maple syrup (to taste, for filling)

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If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting treat to brighten your day, you’ve come to the right place! These Pumpkin Muffins with Maple Cream Cheese Filling are a delightful blend of flavors that will make your kitchen smell divine. The combination of warm spices and sweet maple cream cheese filling makes these muffins an irresistible choice for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this recipe holds such a special place in my heart!

These muffins are not just delicious; they are also super easy to make. Whether you’re baking them for a school bake sale or enjoying them on a lazy Sunday morning, they will be a hit every time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have warm muffins ready in no time.
Family-friendly: Everyone loves pumpkin and cream cheese—these muffins are sure to please kids and adults alike!
Make-ahead convenience: Bake them in advance, store them in the fridge, and enjoy them at room temperature or cold.
Delicious flavor: The blend of spices and sweet maple filling create a mouthwatering experience that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk about the ingredients! You’ll find that these are simple and wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry. The rich pumpkin puree pairs beautifully with the creamy filling, making each muffin an absolute delight.

For the Muffins

1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 eggs
1/4 cup milk
1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
3/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

For the Maple Cream Cheese Filling

3/4 cup heavy cream
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup maple syrup (to taste)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to consider:

Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
Try different spices: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist on the classic pumpkin spice flavor.
Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
Swirl in chocolate: Add chocolate chips into the batter or drizzle melted chocolate on top for an indulgent treat.

How to Make Pumpkin Muffins with Maple Cream Cheese Filling

Step 1: Prepare the Muffin Batter

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the oil and sugars until well combined. Next, add in the pumpkin puree, vanilla extract, eggs, and milk. Whisk until everything is just combined—this keeps our muffins nice and fluffy! Then gently fold in the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt until no dry bits remain. Be careful not to overmix; we want tender muffins!

Step 2: Assemble and Bake

Pour the muffin batter into an oiled or nonstick muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Now for that delicious cinnamon sugar topping! In a small bowl, mix together sugar and cinnamon. Spoon this mixture generously over each muffin before baking. Pop them in the oven for about 20-24 minutes. They’re done when they spring back lightly when pressed.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

While your muffins bake away, let’s whip up that dreamy filling! In one bowl, beat your heavy cream until it forms stiff peaks—this means it should hold its shape well. In another bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream; this step adds lightness to your filling! Finally, mix in maple syrup until everything is silky smooth.

Step 4: Fill Your Muffins

Once your muffins have cooled slightly (we don’t want burnt fingers!), use a paring knife to cut out small cones from their centers. It’s easy—just remove enough so you can pipe in that luscious cream cheese filling! Using either a piping bag or a plastic bag with one corner snipped off, fill each muffin generously with the creamy goodness until it’s just overflowing—trust me; it’s worth it!

Step 5: Enjoy!

These delightful Pumpkin Muffins with Maple Cream Cheese Filling are now ready to be devoured! They can be enjoyed as-is right out of the oven or stored in the fridge if you’re making them ahead of time. Whether served warm or cool, each bite will leave you craving more!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Muffins with Maple Cream Cheese Filling

Baking these delightful pumpkin muffins is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

Use fresh pumpkin puree – While canned pumpkin works fine, using freshly cooked pumpkin gives your muffins a richer flavor and a vibrant color that elevates the dish.
Don’t overmix the batter – Mixing just until combined helps keep your muffins light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense, heavy muffins that aren’t as enjoyable.
Let the muffins cool before filling – Allowing the muffins to cool completely prevents the filling from melting into the muffin, ensuring your maple cream cheese filling stays luscious and distinct.
Experiment with spices – Feel free to adjust the spices based on your taste preferences! Adding nutmeg or ginger can add an exciting twist to your muffins.
Store properly – If you have leftovers (which might be unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps them fresh and maintains their delicious flavors.

How to Serve Pumpkin Muffins with Maple Cream Cheese Filling

These pumpkin muffins are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some fun ways to present them for any occasion.

Garnishes

Chopped pecans or walnuts – Sprinkling some chopped nuts on top of the cream cheese filling adds a delightful crunch and enhances flavor.
Drizzle of maple syrup – A light drizzle of pure maple syrup over the top adds an extra layer of sweetness and makes for an irresistible presentation.

Side Dishes

Hot apple cider – The warmth of spiced apple cider pairs beautifully with pumpkin flavors, creating a cozy fall experience.
Fresh fruit salad – A bright, refreshing fruit salad balances the richness of the muffins and adds a burst of color to your table.
Yogurt parfaits – Layering yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits complements these muffins wonderfully while adding a creamy texture contrast.
Cheese platter – Pairing cheeses like brie or sharp cheddar provides a savory counterpoint, making it an inviting spread for gatherings.

Enjoy serving these delicious pumpkin muffins with maple cream cheese filling in style! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or simply as a treat for yourself.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pumpkin Muffins with Maple Cream Cheese Filling are perfect for meal prep! They can be made in advance and stored, making them a convenient treat for busy days or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

Allow muffins to cool completely before storing.
Place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week.

Freezing

Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or foil.
Place the wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.

Reheating

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Place muffins on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
Alternatively, you can microwave each muffin for about 15-20 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about these delightful pumpkin muffins!

Can I use pumpkin puree from a can for the Pumpkin Muffins with Maple Cream Cheese Filling?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree works perfectly for this recipe and saves time. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin with no added ingredients.

How can I make the filling sweeter in my Pumpkin Muffins with Maple Cream Cheese Filling?

You can easily adjust the sweetness by adding more maple syrup to the cream cheese filling. Start with an extra tablespoon and taste until you reach your desired sweetness!

Can I substitute the heavy cream in the whipped filling?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based whipping cream for a lighter option that is still creamy and delicious.

What if I don’t have all-purpose flour?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or whole wheat flour. Just remember that it may slightly change the texture of your muffins.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Pumpkin Muffins with Maple Cream Cheese Filling as much as I do! They’re not only delicious but also bring warmth and joy to any gathering. Whether you’re sharing them with friends or savoring them solo, these muffins are bound to brighten your day. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your creations!

Pumpkin Muffins with Maple Cream Cheese Filling

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Author: Madison
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 24 minutes
Total Time: 39 minutes
Yield: Approximately 12 muffins 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of fall with these delightful Pumpkin Muffins filled with creamy Maple Cream Cheese. Each bite offers a perfect balance of warm spices and sweet maple goodness, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. These muffins are not only easy to whip up but also versatile enough to impress at family gatherings or cozy weekend brunches. With a moist texture and a hint of cinnamon sugar topping, they promise warmth and joy in every bite. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or chilled from the fridge, these muffins are sure to become a beloved staple in your home!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree
2 eggs
1/4 cup milk
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
1 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping)
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted (for topping)
3/4 cup heavy cream (for filling)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened (for filling)
1/4 cup maple syrup (to taste, for filling)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, whisk together vegetable oil and sugars until combined.
Add pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, and milk; mix until just combined.
Gently fold in flour, baking soda, spices, and salt until no dry bits remain.
Fill muffin tin cups three-quarters full with batter and sprinkle cinnamon sugar topping on each.
Bake for 20-24 minutes or until muffins spring back lightly when pressed.
For the filling, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks in one bowl; beat softened cream cheese in another bowl until smooth, then fold in whipped cream and maple syrup.
Cool muffins slightly before cutting out centers and piping in the cream cheese filling.