Pumpkin Streusel Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious muffins:

• For the Muffins:
  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Cream Cheese Filling:
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Streusel Topping:
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

Follow these simple steps to make your muffins:

• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
• Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice. Set this mixture aside.
• Step 3: In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
• Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, and stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
• Step 5: For the cream cheese filling, beat the softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until smooth and creamy.
• Step 6: For the streusel topping, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold butter, and blend using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Step 7: In each muffin cup, spoon in 1 tablespoon of the muffin batter, followed by 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese filling, and top with additional muffin batter until each cup is filled about 3/4 full. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over each muffin.
• Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

FAQs

1. Can I make these muffins ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the muffin batter and cream cheese filling in advance. Store each in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store the cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

3. Can I freeze these muffins?

Absolutely! Once cooled, wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds before serving.

4. Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

If you’re looking for a lighter filling, you can substitute Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese for a different flavor profile.

5. Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

Yes! Feel free to fold in chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Streusel Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling are a delectable treat perfect for any occasion, bringing warmth and comfort to your table. With their tender crumb, creamy filling, and crunchy streusel topping, these muffins are bound to be a hit. Bake a batch today to enjoy the rich flavors of fall all year round!