Fluffy Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins

Fluffy Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins are a delightful treat that combines the warm flavors of pumpkin with a creamy, sweet filling. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, these muffins are sure to please pumpkin lovers and add a touch of fall to your baking repertoire.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. In another bowl, beat together the vegetable oil, sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. For the cream cheese swirl, mix the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
6. Fill each muffin cup halfway with pumpkin batter, add a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture, and then top with more pumpkin batter. Use a toothpick to gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Servings: 12 muffins

Variations

• Add-ins: Consider adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.
• Spices: Experiment with different spices such as nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist.
• Glaze: Drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze for added sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the muffins for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven for a couple of minutes to regain freshness.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
   Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin puree, just ensure it’s well-pureed and not too watery.
2. What can I substitute for vegetable oil?
   You can use melted coconut oil or applesauce as alternatives.
3. Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
   Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend to make these muffins gluten-free.
4. How can I tell when the muffins are done?
   Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the muffins are ready.
5. Is it necessary to use the cream cheese filling?
   No, you can omit it for a simpler pumpkin muffin if preferred.
6. Can I double the recipe?
   Absolutely! Just ensure you have enough muffin tins or bake in batches.
7. What is the best way to store leftovers?
   Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for longer freshness.
8. Can I use egg substitutes?
   Yes, you can use flax eggs or applesauce as egg replacements.
9. How do I prevent the muffins from sticking?
   Using paper liners or greasing the muffin tin can help prevent sticking.
10. Can I add frosting on top?
    Yes, a cream cheese frosting would pair wonderfully with these muffins.

Conclusion

Fluffy Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins are a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of fall in a soft, moist muffin. Perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a warm beverage, these muffins are sure to become a favorite in your baking collection. Enjoy baking and savoring every bite!

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