Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins (Starbucks Copycat)

Hello, baking lovers! Chef Walter here, and today, I’m bringing you a recipe that’s sure to become your go-to fall treat: Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins – just like the ones from Starbucks! This Homemade Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe will provide you with the perfect blend of pumpkin spice and creamy goodness, creating a cozy, delicious bite that’s even better than the original.

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked pumpkin muffins filling your kitchen on a chilly autumn morning. Whether you’re enjoying one with coffee or sharing them with friends and family, these muffins hit the spot. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, so you can skip the coffee shop lines and bake up a batch whenever you like! For another cozy breakfast idea, check out our Best Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Stuffed French Toast or pair these muffins with our warming Velveeta Broccoli Cheese Soup for a perfect autumnal meal.

These muffins have it all: flavor, texture, and that irresistible Starbucks-inspired touch. They’ll quickly become a household favorite, bringing the taste of fall to every bite. And the best part? They’re budget-friendly and completely customizable, allowing you to tweak the spices or adjust the sweetness to your liking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make these Starbucks-inspired pumpkin cream cheese muffins. Fresh ingredients make a difference, so stock up on high-quality spices!

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling) – brings rich pumpkin flavor and moisture
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar – for sweetness and structure
• 1/2 cup brown sugar – adds a slight molasses flavor and moisture
• 2 large eggs – helps bind the muffins
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil – makes the muffins soft and tender
• 1/4 cup milk – for a little extra moisture
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the flavor
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – for lift and rise
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – adds a bit more rise
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – balances sweetness
• 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger) – brings that classic pumpkin spice flavor

Cream Cheese Filling:

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened – adds that irresistible creamy center
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar – for sweetness in the filling
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – gives the filling a subtle vanilla flavor

Topping:

• 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds (optional) – adds a nice crunch and festive look

Step by Step:

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a small bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. This filling adds the perfect touch of sweetness to balance the pumpkin. Set it aside in the fridge while you prepare the muffin batter.

Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. In another bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla. Slowly fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins tough.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners for easy removal and a professional look.

Step 4: Fill the Muffin Cups
Scoop the pumpkin batter into each muffin cup, filling them about 2/3 of the way. Add a spoonful of cream cheese mixture to the center of each cup. For that iconic Starbucks look, use a toothpick to create a slight swirl in the batter, incorporating the cream cheese and giving each muffin a beautiful marbled look.

Step 5: Add Topping
Sprinkle pumpkin seeds on top of each muffin for added texture and a touch of fall. These seeds will toast beautifully in the oven, adding flavor and a festive appearance.

Step 6: Bake
Bake the muffins for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the muffin (avoiding the cream cheese filling) emerges clean. Let them cool in the pan briefly, then move them to a wire rack to finish cooling completely. Enjoy them warm, at room temperature, or with a dollop of butter. Pair them with our Simply Sandwich Bread or serve alongside your favorite warm drink.

FAQ:

1. Can I make these Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins gluten-free?
Yes, you can make these muffins gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. For the best texture, ensure that the blend includes a binding agent.

2. How do I store Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins?
Store your muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. They stay moist and flavorful, and you can reheat them in the microwave for about 10 seconds to enjoy them warm.

3. Can I freeze Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins?
Absolutely! Allow the muffins to cool fully, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature, then enjoy.

4. How do I make my own pumpkin pie spice?
If you don’t have store-bought pumpkin pie spice, you can make your own by mixing 3 tablespoons of cinnamon, 2 teaspoons of ground ginger, 2 teaspoons of nutmeg, 1 1/2 teaspoons of allspice, and 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground cloves. This homemade blend works perfectly in this recipe and many other fall treats.

5. What makes this recipe a ‘Starbucks Copycat’?
This recipe is inspired by Starbucks’ Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins, using similar ingredients like pumpkin, spices, and a sweet cream cheese filling. This homemade version is designed to replicate the same flavors and texture, allowing you to enjoy a coffee-shop treat at home.

6. How can I make my muffins lighter and fluffier?
Avoid overmixing the batter when combining wet and dry ingredients, as this can make muffins dense. Make sure your baking soda and baking powder are fresh, and consider letting the batter rest for a few minutes before filling the muffin cups.

7. Can I use other toppings instead of pumpkin seeds?
Yes! You can substitute pumpkin seeds with chopped walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chips for a twist. Alternatively, skip the topping altogether if you prefer a simpler muffin.

8. What’s the best way to swirl the cream cheese into the muffins?
To create a nice swirl, drop a spoonful of cream cheese filling into the center of each muffin, then use a toothpick or the end of a knife to gently swirl it into the batter.

9. Can I make these muffins without the cream cheese filling?
Yes, you can make plain pumpkin muffins by simply omitting the cream cheese filling. They’ll still be delicious and flavorful, with a classic pumpkin spice taste.

10. Why are my muffins sinking in the middle?
Muffins may sink if the batter is overmixed, the oven temperature is too low, or if they are underbaked. Be sure to bake the muffins at the recommended temperature and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the non-cream cheese section of the muffin.