Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood in my cozy kitchen, the sweet aroma of cinnamon danced in the air, instantly transporting me to the heart of autumn. These Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins encapsulate all the warm flavors of the season, making them a perfect treat for those crisp mornings or lazy afternoons. Not only are they incredibly easy to whip up, requiring less than 30 minutes from start to finish, but they also bring the delightful essence of pumpkin spice right to your breakfast table. Topped with a velvety cream cheese glaze, they can easily blend into any gathering as a crowd-pleaser. So, are you ready to fill your home with the enchanting scents of fall and indulge in a little baking magic? Let’s dive into this cozy recipe together! Why Are These Muffins a Must-Try? Irresistible Cozy Flavors: Each bite of these Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins offers a comforting blend of warm spices that capture the essence of fall. Quick Baking Delight: With a prep time of under 10 minutes, these muffins are a time-saving solution for busy mornings or afternoon snacks. Soft, Fluffy Texture: Enjoy a tender muffin that melts in your mouth, thanks to the perfect combination of pumpkin and a smooth cream cheese glaze. Versatile Indulgence: Whether enjoyed solo or paired with a warm cup of coffee, they make an excellent addition to any brunch, similar to Blueberry Muffins Breakfast. Family Favorite: These muffins are guaranteed to please everyone, from picky eaters to pumpkin spice aficionados! So, gather your ingredients and experience the joy of baking with a recipe that transforms your kitchen into a cozy retreat. Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffin Ingredients For the Muffins • Canned Pumpkin Puree – This ingredient provides both moisture and the signature pumpkin flavor; be sure to use plain pumpkin puree. • Melted Butter (or Vegetable Oil) – Adds richness and tenderness; opt for vegetable oil for a lighter texture. • Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and balances the spices; no substitutions recommended for ideal sweetness. • Large Egg – Binds all ingredients together and adds structure; a flax egg can be used for a vegan option. • Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; avoid imitation for the best results. • All-Purpose Flour – Provides the necessary structure for the muffins; can be replaced with a gluten-free flour blend. • Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Essential leavening agents ensure a light, fluffy muffin; check for gluten-free options if needed. • Salt – Enhances all the flavors in your muffins; a crucial ingredient for balance. • Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice into the muffins; be sure not to skip this for authentic flavor. For the Cinnamon Swirl • Melted Butter – This creates a delightful cinnamon layer; vegetable oil can be used as a substitute. • Brown Sugar – Brings depth and sweetness to the swirl; coconut sugar works as an alternative. For the Cream Cheese Glaze • Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze; reduce the amount for a less sweet option. • Milk – Adjust the glaze’s consistency; add more for a thinner, drizzly glaze. With these simple ingredients, your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins will be ready to bring the warmth and comfort of fall right into your kitchen! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Step 1: Preheat the Oven Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your muffin tin by lining it with paper liners. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy. While the oven warms up, you can start gathering the ingredients for your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins, ready to dive into the deliciousness ahead. Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the canned pumpkin puree, melted butter (or vegetable oil), granulated sugar, large egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This wet mix forms the base of your muffins, adding moistness and rich flavor right from the start. Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Mixing the dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices in your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins, resulting in a fluffy texture and a warm, spicy aroma. Step 4: Combine Mixes Gradually pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; leaving a few lumps is okay. This step combines the flavors and textures seamlessly, setting you up for perfectly soft muffins once baked. Step 5: Prepare Cinnamon Swirl In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, and an extra dash of cinnamon until well blended. This creates a delightful cinnamon swirl that you will fold into your muffin batter, adding delicious pockets of flavor that evoke the essence of fresh cinnamon rolls. Step 6: Fill Muffin Tins Spoon the muffin batter equally into each lined muffin cup, filling them about two-thirds full. Then, drop a spoonful of the cinnamon mixture into the center of each muffin. Use a knife or toothpick to gently swirl the cinnamon filling into the batter, creating a marbled effect that will surprise your taste buds! Step 7: Bake Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake the Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins for 20 to 25 minutes. They are done when the tops are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. As they bake, get ready for your kitchen to fill with the irresistible aroma of fall! Step 8: Cool Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. This brief cooling period helps them firm up. Afterward, transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they stay fluffy and moist as they cool down. Step 9: Prepare Glaze While the muffins cool, prepare the cream cheese glaze. In a bowl, combine the powdered sugar, a splash of vanilla extract, and milk, mixing until smooth and creamy. You can adjust the thickness by adding more milk if you prefer a thinner glaze or less for a thicker dollop. Step 10: Drizzle Glaze Once the muffins have cooled completely, generously drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the tops. Allow the glaze to set for a moment, adding a final sweet touch to your delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins, ready to be enjoyed any time of the day! Make Ahead Options These Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic mornings! You can prepare the muffin batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix all wet and dry ingredients separately, then combine them, and refrigerate the batter until you’re ready to bake. For added convenience, you can also prepare the cinnamon swirl mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy fresh muffins, just fill the muffin tins, swirl in the cinnamon mixture, and bake straight from the fridge for 20-25 minutes. This way, you’ll have warm, fluffy muffins that taste just as delicious as if they were made fresh! Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Variations Feel free to make these delightful muffins your own with some fun twists that are sure to please any palate! Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with pumpkin’s softness. The added texture will make each bite even more enjoyable. Maple Sweetness: Swap a portion of sugar with maple syrup to bring in a subtle caramel flavor, elevating the sweetness while enhancing the muffins’ warmth. It’s a nice autumnal twist to the classic recipe! Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Cake: Use a baking dish instead of a muffin pan for a charming cake-like version. Adjust the baking time to about 35 minutes for that perfect bake. Slice it up just like you would a coffee cake! Spice it Up: Throw in a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to amplify the fall spices. This little addition will take your flavor profile to the next level, making it even more aromatic and comforting. Dairy-Free Option: For a vegan-friendly muffin, replace the egg with a flax egg and substitute the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. This way, everyone can enjoy the cozy flavors! Chocolate Drizzle: If you’re looking to satisfy a chocolate craving, drizzle some melted dark chocolate over the cream cheese glaze for a decadent finish! It’s a fun twist that chocolate lovers will adore. Fuit Surprise: Toss in some fresh cranberries or diced apples for fruity bursts within the muffins, balancing the spices beautifully. This will also add a lovely tartness to each bite. And if you’re looking for more delicious breakfast ideas, why not check out these Sausage Egg Ups or enjoy a delightful Breakfast Pizza English Muffins? Happy baking! How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Room Temperature: Store your muffins in an airtight container for up to 2 days on the countertop to keep them fresh and soft. Fridge: If you want to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate the muffins in an airtight container for up to a week; however, they may lose some moisture. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins for up to 2 months. Before serving, thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up. Reheating: To enjoy the muffins warm, heat them in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes; then drizzle with glaze before serving. What to Serve with Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins? These muffins are not just a treat; they’re an invitation to create a cozy meal that sings of autumn’s charm. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, velvety texture of mashed potatoes contrasts beautifully with the muffins’ soft fluffiness, creating a comforting harmony. Spiced Apple Cider: A warm mug of spiced apple cider perfectly complements the pumpkin and cinnamon, adding an extra layer of cozy flavors to your meal. Maple-Glazed Bacon: The sweet and savory blend of maple-glazed bacon complements the muffins’ sweetness, creating a delightful balance between breakfast and dessert. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: This creamy soup enriches your dining experience, with its subtle earthiness echoing the pumpkin’s warmth while adding a touch of sophistication. Chai Latte: The fragrant spices in a chai latte enhance the cinnamon notes of the muffins, making for a warming beverage that wraps you in comfort. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a bright, zesty contrast, lifting and balancing the richness of the muffins for a well-rounded meal. Walnut Pecan Salad: A crunchy salad with walnuts and pecans adds texture and a nutty dimension that complements the softness of the muffins well. Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve these muffins warm, paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a heavenly dessert experience that’s simply irresistible! Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the flavors of fall with a pumpkin spice latte, complementing the muffins and deepening that cozy feeling. Expert Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Swirl Wisely: Swirl the cinnamon mixture gently to create pockets of flavor without completely mixing it in; this enhances the muffin’s taste. Choose Pure Purity: Always use plain canned pumpkin puree to ensure your muffins aren’t overly sweet or spiced, keeping the texture just right. Check Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center before removing from the oven; it should come out clean for perfectly baked Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins. Avoid Overmixing: Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed; this helps maintain a tender, fluffy muffin texture instead of a dense one. Customize with Care: Feel free to add nuts or different spices but do it in moderation to keep the classic pumpkin flavor intact. Store Smartly: For maximum freshness, store your muffins in an airtight container; they are best enjoyed within 2 days, or freeze for longer storage. Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe FAQs What kind of pumpkin puree should I use? Absolutely! For these muffins, I recommend using plain canned pumpkin puree to avoid added sweetness and spices that could affect the texture. Brands like Libby’s offer a great option that works perfectly, ensuring your muffins have that wonderful, authentic pumpkin flavor. How should I store my Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins? To keep your muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week, though they may lose moisture. For the best results, I often make a batch and freeze them unfrosted. Just pop them in an airtight container, and they’ll last up to 2 months! Can I freeze these muffins? If so, how? Yes, you can freeze your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins for up to 2 months! Allow them to cool completely first, then place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag. For easy serving, I recommend wrapping each muffin individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the container. Thaw them at room temperature, and drizzle with glaze when ready to enjoy! What should I do if my muffins are too dense? Very! If your muffins turn out dense, it’s usually due to overmixing the batter. To avoid this, mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Another tip is to ensure your leavening agents (baking soda and baking powder) are fresh; outdated ones can diminish the rise. And remember, a fluffy muffin comes from gentle mixing! Are these muffins vegan-friendly? Definitely! If you want to make these muffins vegan, simply substitute the large egg with a flax egg. To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. This switch will allow you to enjoy a deliciously moist muffin without any animal products! Can I add nuts or other flavorings to the muffins? Of course! A little texture can elevate your muffins. I often add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch, or you could spice things up with a dash of nutmeg or ginger. Just be mindful not to overpower the delightful pumpkin flavor; a little goes a long way! Delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins for Cozy Fall Mornings These Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are a perfect treat for fall, filled with cozy flavors and topped with cream cheese glaze. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 25 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 12 muffinsCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 220 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Muffins1 cup Canned Pumpkin Puree Use plain pumpkin puree1/2 cup Melted Butter Or vegetable oil for a lighter texture3/4 cup Granulated Sugar No substitutions recommended1 large Egg A flax egg can be used for vegan option1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Avoid imitation for best results2 cups All-Purpose Flour Can be replaced with gluten-free flour blend1 teaspoon Baking Soda1 teaspoon Baking Powder Check for gluten-free options1/2 teaspoon Salt1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Essential for flavorFor the Cinnamon Swirl2 tablespoons Melted Butter Vegetable oil can be used as a substitute1/4 cup Brown Sugar Coconut sugar works as an alternativeFor the Cream Cheese Glaze1 cup Powdered Sugar Reduce for less sweet option2 tablespoons Milk Adjust for consistency Equipment Muffin tinMixing bowlsWhisksifter Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line muffin tin with paper liners.In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, melted butter (or oil), sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.Sift together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in another bowl.Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture, stirring until just combined.In a small bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and an extra dash of cinnamon to create the cinnamon swirl.Spoon muffin batter into lined cups, fill two-thirds full, and drop in the cinnamon mixture. Swirl gently with a knife.Bake for 20-25 minutes until tops are golden and a toothpick comes out clean.Cool muffins in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk to create glaze, adjusting thickness as needed.Drizzle the cream cheese glaze over cooled muffins and let it set. Nutrition Serving: 1muffinCalories: 220kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 2gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 1200IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesFor maximum freshness, store muffins in an airtight container for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!