Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: 280-Calorie Delight

If you’re looking for a cozy treat to warm up those crisp fall mornings, let me introduce you to my Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: 280-Calorie Delight. These muffins are not just your average baked good; they are a delightful combination of moist pumpkin goodness topped with a sweet, crunchy streusel. They have quickly become a favorite in my home and are perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even as a comforting dessert after dinner.

What makes these muffins truly special is how easy they are to whip up. Whether you’re hosting family gatherings or just need something quick during busy weeknights, these muffins will never disappoint!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly easy to make: With simple steps and everyday ingredients, you’ll be enjoying fresh muffins in no time.
• Family-approved flavor: The warm spices and pumpkin create a taste that everyone loves; kids and adults alike will come back for seconds!
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake a batch on the weekend and enjoy them throughout the week for breakfast or snacks.
• Perfectly portioned: At just 280 calories each, these muffins fit nicely into your daily routine without the guilt.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this recipe, we’re using simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. They come together to create the most delightful spiced pumpkin muffins!

For the Muffins:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Streusel Topping:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients and mix things up a bit.

• Add some nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can give your muffins an extra crunch and flavor boost.
• Incorporate chocolate: Stir in some dark chocolate chips for a delicious twist that adds richness.
• Use different spices: Experiment with cardamom or allspice for an exciting flavor profile.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.

How to Make Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: 280-Calorie Delight

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because it ensures that your muffins bake evenly and rise beautifully as they cook. While the oven heats up, line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it generously so that the muffins release easily after baking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the batter for consistent rising.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture adds moisture and sweetness to our muffins while keeping them light and fluffy.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined—don’t worry about getting rid of every lump! Overmixing can lead to tough muffins instead of tender ones.

Step 5: Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon for your streusel topping. Add in those cold butter pieces! Using your fingers or a pastry blender to cut in the butter creates those lovely crumbly bits that will bake into a delicious topping.

Step 6: Divide Batter into Muffin Cups

Carefully divide the muffin batter evenly among your prepared muffin cups. Filling them about two-thirds full allows room for rising while keeping each muffin perfectly portioned.

Step 7: Top with Streusel

Generously sprinkle the streusel topping over each muffin before placing them in the oven. This step adds that delightful crunch we all love!

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake for about 18-22 minutes or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. It’s always exciting to see those golden tops rise as they bake!

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy!

Let your muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling period lets them firm up while still being warm enough to enjoy right away!

And there you have it—your Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins are ready to be devoured! Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save some for later; either way, you’re in for a treat!

Pro Tips for Making Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: 280-Calorie Delight

Creating the perfect spiced pumpkin streusel muffins can be a breeze with a few insider tips!

• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices enhance the flavor of your muffins significantly. If possible, grind your own spices to capture their full aroma and taste.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense muffins. Stir until just combined to keep them light and fluffy, allowing for those delightful air pockets.
• Chill your butter for the streusel: Keeping your butter cold when making the streusel topping helps achieve that perfect crumbly texture. This way, the butter doesn’t fully melt before baking, giving you a crunchy topping.
• Check doneness carefully: Every oven is different, so start checking your muffins around the 18-minute mark. Insert a toothpick or skewer into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready!
• Let them cool properly: Allowing muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack helps them set, ensuring they stay moist and don’t fall apart.

How to Serve Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: 280-Calorie Delight

These amazing spiced pumpkin streusel muffins are not only delicious but also versatile! Here are some delightful ways to present and enjoy them.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and an elegant finish.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top to add extra crunch and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Greek yogurt with honey: A bowl of creamy Greek yogurt drizzled with honey makes for a refreshing side that complements the warm spices in the muffins.
• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful assortment of seasonal fruits provides a bright, juicy contrast that balances out the richness of the muffins.
• Herbal tea: Pairing these muffins with a soothing cup of herbal tea enhances their cozy vibe, making it perfect for a fall afternoon treat.
• Cinnamon oatmeal: A small bowl of cinnamon oatmeal alongside adds warmth and heartiness, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with your amazing spiced pumpkin streusel muffins! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch ahead of time, making busy mornings or unexpected guests a breeze. Here’s how you can store, freeze, and reheat your delicious muffins.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow muffins to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from frozen, simply microwave a muffin for 30-45 seconds or until warmed through.
• You can also thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and enjoy at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about these muffins.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned for the Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: 280-Calorie Delight?

Yes! Fresh pumpkin can be used as a substitute. Just make sure to cook and puree it until smooth, similar to the consistency of canned pumpkin.

How many calories are in one muffin of the Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: 280-Calorie Delight?

Each muffin contains approximately 280 calories, making it a delightful treat that fits into your daily calorie goals!

Can I replace the vegetable oil with another type?

Absolutely! You can use melted coconut oil or applesauce as alternatives to vegetable oil for a different flavor profile.

What if I don’t have all the spices on hand?

No worries! You can adjust the spices based on what you have. A pre-mixed pumpkin pie spice blend makes an excellent substitute.

How do I know when my muffins are done baking?

Your muffins are ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins! They’re not just delicious but also bring warmth and comfort, perfect for any fall occasion. Enjoy every bite, share with loved ones, and don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite ingredients. Happy baking!