When pumpkin season arrives, there’s nothing more comforting than biting into a warm, fluffy pumpkin muffin. These Classic Pumpkin Muffins are perfectly spiced, tender, and full of rich pumpkin flavor. They’re quick to make, require simple pantry ingredients, and are just as good for breakfast as they are for an afternoon treat.
Why You’ll Love These Muffins
- Soft & Tender Crumb – Moist and fluffy, never dry.
- Balanced Pumpkin Flavor – Not too sweet, with just the right spice.
- Quick & Easy – No mixer required; ready in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile – Enjoy plain, with butter, or topped with cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Makes about 12 muffins)
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. Make the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until smooth. Add eggs, pumpkin puree, milk, and vanilla; whisk until combined. Gently fold in the dry ingredients until just blended.
4. Fill & Bake
Divide batter evenly into muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
5. Cool & Serve
Let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Optional Add-Ins
- Chocolate Chips – For a dessert-like muffin.
- Chopped Nuts – Walnuts or pecans add crunch.
- Cinnamon Sugar Sprinkle – Dust tops before baking for a sweet crust.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Pumpkin Spice – Old spices lose potency; fresh spices give the best flavor.
- Don’t Overmix – This keeps muffins light and tender.
- Double the Batch – These freeze beautifully for quick breakfasts.
Storage
Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Freeze for up to 2 months, thawing overnight before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
These muffins balance pumpkin flavor and spice without being overly sweet. The oil-based batter locks in moisture, ensuring soft, bakery-style muffins every time.
More Pumpkin Recipes to Try
- Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins – Swirled with cheesecake filling.
- Pumpkin Streusel Bread – Sweet crumb topping on a spiced loaf.
- Pumpkin Spice Coffee Cake – Perfect for pairing with coffee or tea.
These Irresistible Classic Pumpkin Muffins are the ultimate fall bake—simple, flavorful, and guaranteed to become a seasonal favorite. Bake a batch, and your kitchen will instantly smell like autumn.