Pumpkin Streusel Muffins

If you’re looking for a delightful way to usher in the cozy fall season, these Pumpkin Streusel Muffins are just the treat you need! They are wonderfully moist, bursting with pumpkin spice flavor, and topped with a crunchy brown sugar streusel that makes them irresistible. This recipe has quickly become a family favorite in my home because they are perfect for busy mornings, school lunches, or even as a sweet addition to your weekend brunch spread.

I love how easy these muffins are to whip up. You can enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store them for later. Whether you’re gathering with friends on the weekend or simply treating yourself after a long day, these muffins will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have delicious muffins ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike adore these muffins; they’re great for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
• Make-ahead option: You can bake these muffins ahead of time and freeze them for those busy mornings!
• Deliciously spiced: The blend of pumpkin pie spice fills your kitchen with a warm aroma that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or just a treat for yourself, these muffins fit right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need anything fancy to make these delightful Pumpkin Streusel Muffins. The ingredients are simple and wholesome, allowing the flavors of pumpkin and spice to shine through beautifully.

For the Streusel Topping

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, cold
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup all purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt

For the Muffins

• 1 3/4 cups all purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp pumpkin pie spice
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 1/4 cups granulated white sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
• 3/4 cup buttermilk, at room temperature

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an extra crunch.
• Try different spices: Substitute pumpkin pie spice with cinnamon or nutmeg if you prefer.
• Mix in chocolate chips: For a sweet twist, add semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter.
• Use different milk alternatives: Swap buttermilk for almond milk or oat milk if you’re looking for dairy-free options.

How to Make Pumpkin Streusel Muffins

Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Topping

Start by making the streusel topping. In a mixing bowl, combine the cold butter, brown sugar, flour, and salt. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. This step adds that lovely crunchy texture on top of each muffin!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Mixing dry ingredients first ensures even distribution of leavening agents and spices throughout your muffins.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, combine melted butter and granulated sugar until well mixed. Add in eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract and canned pumpkin puree. Pour in buttermilk and stir until everything is just combined—don’t overmix! This keeps your muffins tender and fluffy.

Step 4: Fold Wet into Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients using a spatula. Again, be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are some lumps!

Step 5: Fill Muffin Cups

Preheat your oven while you prepare your muffin pan by lining it with paper liners or greasing it lightly. Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with batter and then sprinkle generously with streusel topping. This will give that delightful crunch we all love!

Step 6: Bake

Place your muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 7: Cool & Enjoy!

Let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy warm or at room temperature; they’re perfect either way!

Pro Tips for Making Pumpkin Streusel Muffins

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with these simple tips, you’ll ensure your pumpkin streusel muffins turn out perfectly every time!

• Use cold butter for the streusel: Starting with cold butter helps create that irresistible crumbly texture in your streusel topping, making it extra crunchy and delicious.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until the ingredients are combined will keep your muffins light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins, which we definitely want to avoid!

• Check doneness with a toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re done! This prevents overbaking and keeps them moist.

• Let them cool before serving: Allowing your muffins to cool on a wire rack lets them finish baking and enhances their flavor. Warm muffins are wonderful, but cooled ones are easier to handle and slice if desired.

• Store properly for freshness: Keep your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap to enjoy later!

How to Serve Pumpkin Streusel Muffins

Presenting your pumpkin streusel muffins beautifully can make all the difference when it comes to enjoying this delicious treat! Here are some ideas on how to serve them:

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and elegance without overpowering the pumpkin flavor.
• Chopped nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the muffins add crunch and enhance the fall flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the warm spices of the muffins, making for a balanced breakfast or brunch.
• Yogurt parfaits: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy side that complements the texture of the muffins while adding nutritional value.
• Herbal tea: Serve with a cup of chamomile or peppermint tea for a soothing beverage that pairs wonderfully with baked goods.
• Smoothies: A pumpkin spice smoothie made with banana and almond milk can round out your meal perfectly while keeping everything within that cozy autumn theme.

With these serving suggestions, you can create an inviting atmosphere that will have everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy baking (and eating) these delightful pumpkin streusel muffins!

Make Ahead and Storage

These pumpkin streusel muffins are perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week, making breakfast or snack time a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer them fresh, keep them in the fridge where they will last about a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat muffins in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual muffins for about 15-20 seconds if you’re short on time.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about pumpkin streusel muffins.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for Pumpkin Streusel Muffins?

Yes! You can use fresh pumpkin puree made by cooking and blending your own pumpkin. Just ensure it’s smooth and not too watery.

How do I get crunchy streusel topping on my Pumpkin Streusel Muffins?

To achieve that perfect crunch, make sure your butter is cold when mixing the streusel ingredients. This helps create clumps that will bake into a delicious topping!

Can I substitute buttermilk in the Pumpkin Streusel Muffins recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace buttermilk with a mix of regular milk and vinegar or lemon juice (1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice per cup of milk). Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.

How many calories are in each Pumpkin Streusel Muffin?

Each muffin contains approximately 180 calories, making them a delightful yet indulgent treat!

Are Pumpkin Streusel Muffins suitable for vegetarians?

Yes! These muffins are vegetarian-friendly since they do not contain any meat or animal-derived gelatin.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these delightful pumpkin streusel muffins! They’re not just delicious but also fill your kitchen with that comforting fall aroma. Whether it’s a cozy breakfast or a sweet snack, these muffins are sure to brighten your day. Enjoy baking and sharing these treats with your loved ones!