Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: 280-Calorie Delight

These Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: 280-Calorie Delight are a must-try for the fall season. They combine moist pumpkin muffins with a crunchy, sweet streusel topping, making them perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a cozy dessert. Enjoy their warm spices and delightful texture any time of day!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fall Flavor Sensation: These muffins are packed with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, evoking the essence of autumn in every bite.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, these muffins suit various occasions and cravings.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible even for novice bakers.
• Healthy Indulgence: At just 280 calories each, you can indulge without the guilt while enjoying a delicious treat.
• Freezable Goodness: Make a batch ahead and freeze them for quick breakfasts or snacks later.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking your muffins, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything ready will make your experience enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tin
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Pastry blender (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: Ensures uniform baking and shapes your muffins perfectly.
• Mixing bowls: Keep ingredients organized while allowing easy mixing of wet and dry components.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth mixture by incorporating air into the batter.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding ingredients together without overmixing.

Ingredients

These spiced pumpkin streusel muffins are a classic fall treat, offering a delightful combination of moist pumpkin muffin and a sweet, crumbly streusel topping. They are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a cozy dessert.

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

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it generously.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the following:
1. 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 teaspoon baking soda
3. ½ teaspoon baking powder
4. 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
5. ½ teaspoon ground ginger
6. ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
7. ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
8. ½ teaspoon salt

Set aside once combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together until smooth:
1. 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
2. ½ cup granulated sugar
3. ½ cup packed light brown sugar
4. ½ cup vegetable oil
5. 2 large eggs
6. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently with a rubber spatula until just combined; it’s okay if there are some lumps—do not overmix!

Step 5: Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a small bowl, combine:
1. ½ cup all-purpose flour
2. ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
3. ¼ cup granulated sugar
4. ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Add cold butter pieces and use your fingers or pastry blender to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups

Divide the muffin batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups.

Step 7: Add Streusel Topping

Generously sprinkle the streusel topping over each muffin before baking.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 18-22 minutes or until a wooden skewer inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool

Allow muffins to cool in the muffin tin for several minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy these Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins as part of your fall festivities!

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

These Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins make for a delightful treat any time of day. Whether you’re serving them at breakfast or as an afternoon snack, there are plenty of tasty ways to enjoy these muffins.

With a Hot Beverage

• Pair with coffee – The rich flavors of coffee complement the spices in the muffins.
• Enjoy with tea – A warm cup of herbal tea can enhance the cozy experience.
• Serve alongside hot chocolate – Perfect for a chilly day, hot chocolate adds a sweet touch.

As Part of a Breakfast Spread

• Add fresh fruit – Serve with sliced apples or pears to balance the sweetness.
• Include yogurt – A dollop of yogurt adds creaminess and tanginess.
• Complement with nuts – A handful of walnuts or pecans can provide a nice crunch.

For Dessert

• Drizzle with honey – A light drizzle enhances flavor and adds sweetness.
• Serve with whipped cream – This makes for a decadent dessert option.
• Top with ice cream – Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream pairs beautifully for an indulgent treat.

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

Perfecting your spiced pumpkin streusel muffins can elevate them from good to amazing. Here are some helpful tips.

• Use fresh spices – Freshly ground spices have more flavor and aroma than old ones.
• Measure accurately – Ensure precise measurements for flour and sugars to achieve the right texture.
• Don’t overmix – Stir until just combined; overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
• Check doneness carefully – Use a skewer to check if they’re done; it should come out clean but be careful not to overbake.
• Cool properly – Allow muffins to cool in the tin before transferring them, which helps maintain moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: 280-Calorie Delight

These muffins can be enjoyed alongside various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here are some excellent options:

1. Greek Yogurt – Creamy and tangy, Greek yogurt adds protein and pairs well with the sweet muffins.
2. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the muffins.
3. Cheese Platter – Soft cheeses like brie or mild goat cheese can provide a savory contrast.
4. Nut Butter – Almond or peanut butter spread on warm muffins gives added flavor and nutrition.
5. Granola – Crunchy granola sprinkled on top offers texture and additional sweetness.
6. Cottage Cheese – This provides a creamy texture with mild flavor, making it a great pairing for breakfast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common pitfalls will ensure the best results.

• Using the wrong type of flour: All-purpose flour is essential for the right texture. Avoid using self-rising flour as it can alter the muffin’s rise.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to tough muffins. Mix just until combined; it’s okay if there are some lumps.
• Skipping the streusel topping: The streusel adds a sweet crunch that enhances flavor. Don’t skip this step—it’s what makes these muffins special!
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use proper measuring cups and spoons for dry and wet ingredients. Accurate measurements help achieve the perfect muffin consistency.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different. Start checking for doneness at 18 minutes by inserting a skewer; they are done when it comes out clean.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store muffins in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
• They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: 280-Calorie Delight

• Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: 280-Calorie Delight

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one muffin at a time on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place muffins in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins.

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Just ensure it’s pureed smoothly before adding it to your mixture.

How do I make these muffins gluten-free?

Substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend specifically designed for baking will work well.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips into the batter for extra flavor.

What is the best way to store leftover muffins?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for short-term storage, or freeze them for longer shelf life.

Final Thoughts

These Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins are not only delicious but versatile enough for any occasion. Whether enjoyed at breakfast, as a snack, or as a cozy dessert, they bring warmth and joy during fall. Feel free to customize them with your favorite add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips!