Donut Pumpkin Muffins

Donut Pumpkin Muffins are a perfect fall treat that combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg, all wrapped up in a soft, fluffy muffin. These muffins have a slight donut-like texture on the outside thanks to the cinnamon-sugar coating, while the inside remains moist and full of autumn spices. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a cozy treat to share with friends, these pumpkin muffins are sure to please everyone. The addition of pumpkin puree makes them incredibly moist, while the warm spices bring the classic flavors of fall to every bite. Easy to make and irresistible to eat, these muffins are perfect for those cool mornings when you want something sweet but comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s a lot to love about these Donut Pumpkin Muffins. First, they combine the best of both worlds: the soft, pillowy texture of a muffin with the deliciously sweet coating typically found on donuts. The spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—give these muffins a warm, comforting flavor that’s perfect for fall. Plus, the pumpkin puree adds moisture and richness, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite. The cinnamon-sugar coating on the outside takes these muffins over the top, providing a sweet, slightly crunchy texture that contrasts perfectly with the soft interior. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is simple to follow and results in a batch of mouthwatering muffins everyone will adore.

Ingredients

For the Muffins:

• All-purpose flour
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Cloves
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar (packed)
• Large eggs
• Vegetable oil
• Vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:

• Granulated sugar
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Butter (melted)

Variations

• Add-ins: You can add chocolate chips, chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans), or dried fruit (such as cranberries or raisins) to the muffin batter for added texture and flavor.
• Glazed Muffins: For a sweeter twist, you can drizzle a glaze over the muffins instead of using the cinnamon-sugar coating. Simply mix powdered sugar with a little milk and vanilla extract to create a glaze.
• Spices: If you’re a fan of spice, feel free to add more cinnamon or nutmeg to suit your taste. You can also try adding ground ginger or allspice for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour to make these muffins gluten-free.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently to combine. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be thick but smooth.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin

Spoon the muffin batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full. This will give the muffins plenty of room to rise without overflowing.

Step 6: Bake the Muffins

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

While the muffins are cooling, prepare the cinnamon-sugar coating. In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In another bowl, melt the butter.

Step 8: Coat the Muffins

Once the muffins have cooled slightly but are still warm, dip each muffin into the melted butter, ensuring it’s coated evenly. Then, roll the muffin in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat the outside thoroughly. Repeat for all the muffins.

Step 9: Serve

Allow the muffins to rest for a few minutes to let the cinnamon-sugar coating set. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for later.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
• Check for Doneness: Muffins are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs. Be careful not to overbake.
• Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: To get the coating to stick better, make sure the muffins are still warm when you dip them in butter and roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
• Even Muffins: If you want your muffins to bake evenly, try using an ice cream scoop to portion out the batter into each muffin cup. This ensures each muffin is the same size.
• Adjusting Sweetness: If you prefer less sweetness, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the cinnamon-sugar coating, or leave it out entirely for a less sugary finish.

How to Serve

These Donut Pumpkin Muffins are perfect for breakfast or as a snack with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or cider. They make an excellent addition to a fall brunch spread or as a treat to enjoy with friends and family. You can also serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgence. For a more decadent treat, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of pumpkin-flavored whipped cream.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Donut Pumpkin Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The muffins will remain soft and fresh when kept in an airtight container.

Freezing

To freeze the muffins, allow them to cool completely. Then, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.

Reheating

To enjoy warm muffins again, simply microwave them for 10-15 seconds or heat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

No, pumpkin pie filling contains added spices and sugar, which will affect the texture and flavor of the muffins. Be sure to use pure pumpkin puree.

2. Can I make these muffins without the cinnamon-sugar coating?

Yes, the muffins are delicious on their own, but the cinnamon-sugar coating adds a wonderful sweetness and texture. You can skip it if you prefer a lighter muffin.

3. Can I use a different type of oil instead of vegetable oil?

Yes, you can substitute vegetable oil with canola oil, melted coconut oil, or another neutral-flavored oil.

4. Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for the all-purpose flour. Make sure to use a blend that’s suitable for baking.

5. How do I know when the muffins are done?

The muffins are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the toothpick has batter on it, the muffins need a few more minutes to bake.

6. Can I add nuts to the muffins?

Yes, you can add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the muffin batter for extra texture and flavor.

7. Can I make these muffins without eggs?

If you’re looking for an egg-free option, you can use a flax egg or a chia egg as a replacement for the eggs in this recipe.

8. How can I make these muffins more flavorful?

You can add more spices like ginger or allspice to enhance the flavor. Adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or orange zest can also provide a pleasant twist.

9. Can I freeze the cinnamon-sugar coating?

The cinnamon-sugar coating is best used fresh. However, you can store the dry cinnamon-sugar mixture in an airtight container for later use, though it’s best to coat the muffins just before serving.

10. How long will the muffins stay fresh?

These muffins will stay fresh for about 2-3 days at room temperature, or up to 2 months in the freezer.

Conclusion

Donut Pumpkin Muffins are a fall-inspired treat that combines the richness of pumpkin with the warmth of spices and the irresistible sweetness of cinnamon-sugar coating. These muffins are easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for any autumn gathering. Whether you’re enjoying them with a hot cup of coffee or sharing them with friends, they’re sure to be a hit. With the option to customize with different add-ins or coatings, this recipe is both versatile and delicious, making it a must-try for pumpkin lovers and muffin enthusiasts alike.

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