Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe
Discover how to make the perfect homemade pumpkin cream cheese muffins with this Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe. These muffins are not only a delicious treat but also a fantastic and cost-effective alternative to Starbucks’ popular offering. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, these moist, spiced muffins filled with creamy goodness are sure to delight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and requires no advanced baking skills. You’ll have delicious muffins in just about 40 minutes.
- Rich Flavor: The blend of pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice creates a warm, comforting flavor that’s perfect for fall.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as breakfast on busy mornings or serve them at gatherings. They’re suitable for various occasions.
- Creamy Center: The surprise cream cheese filling adds a delightful richness that elevates the muffin experience.
- Cost-Effective Alternative: Enjoy your favorite cafe treat without breaking the bank by making them at home.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare these delicious muffins, you will need some essential tools that will help you achieve the perfect bake.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Whisk
- Muffin tin
- Muffin liners (optional)
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without spills.
- Muffin tin: Provides the shape and structure for your muffins, ensuring even baking.
Ingredients
For the Muffins:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin spice
- 15 oz pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 teaspoon milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your muffin tin with muffin liners or grease it lightly with oil.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Granulated sugar
3. Brown sugar
4. Baking soda
5. Pumpkin spice
Stir well until all dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Pumpkin puree
2. Vegetable oil
3. Eggs
4. Vanilla extract
Mix until you achieve a smooth consistency.
Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients bowl. Stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing; some lumps are okay!
Step 5: Prepare Cream Cheese Filling
In a small bowl, mix together:
1. Cream cheese
2. Granulated sugar
3. Flour
4. Milk
5. Vanilla extract
Beat until smooth.
Step 6: Fill Muffin Tin
Spoon about one tablespoon of muffin batter into each muffin cup, then add about one teaspoon of the cream cheese filling in the center before topping with more batter until nearly full.
Step 7: Bake Your Muffins
Bake in your preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy!
Once baked, allow them to cool in the pan for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your homemade Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins!
How to Serve Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe
These pumpkin cream cheese muffins are perfect for any occasion. They can be enjoyed fresh out of the oven or served later in the day. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
Pair with a Warm Beverage
- Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee complement the spiced pumpkin perfectly.
- Tea: A warm chai or spiced tea brings out the muffin’s warmth.
- Hot Chocolate: Enjoy with a creamy cup for a sweet, comforting treat.
Add a Topping
- Cream Cheese Frosting: For extra sweetness, spread some on top before serving.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop adds lightness and pairs well with the muffin’s density.
- Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle crushed walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture contrast.
Create a Dessert Platter
- Mini Pastries: Arrange different types of pastries alongside the muffins for variety.
- Fruits: Fresh slices of apple or pear can balance the richness of the muffins.
- Yogurt Parfait: Serve with a side of yogurt layered with granola and berries for freshness.
How to Perfect Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe
To achieve the best version of these muffins, consider these helpful tips that will take your baking to the next level.
- Boldly Measure Ingredients: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time.
- Use Fresh Pumpkin Spice: Freshly ground spices can enhance flavor over pre-packaged blends.
- Avoid Overmixing Batter: Mix until just combined to keep muffins light and fluffy.
- Check Doneness Early: Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off to avoid overbaking.
- Let Cool Before Serving: Allowing muffins to cool enhances their flavor and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe
These pumpkin cream cheese muffins pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider these options to create a complete meal or snack.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance out sweetness.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit medley complements the muffin’s flavors nicely.
- Granola Bars: Homemade bars add an extra crunch and are easy to grab on-the-go.
- Cottage Cheese: Creamy cottage cheese offers a high-protein, savory option that contrasts well.
- Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl topped with seeds and fruits creates a nutritious pairing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your muffins turn out perfectly, be mindful of these common mistakes.
- Using stale ingredients: Fresh ingredients are crucial for the best flavor and texture. Always check your baking powder and spices for freshness.
- Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to avoid tough muffins. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Skipping the cream cheese filling: The cream cheese adds a delightful surprise in every bite. Don’t skip this step for maximum flavor!
- Not measuring accurately: Use proper measuring cups for dry and wet ingredients. Inaccurate measurements can alter the texture and taste.
- Ignoring oven temperature: Preheat your oven to ensure even baking. An unheated oven can result in undercooked or unevenly baked muffins.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store muffins in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe
- Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place muffins on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat one muffin for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. Heat for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making the Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. Just expect a denser texture.
How do I make these muffins gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour to make them gluten-free.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Feel free to add walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for extra flavor and crunch.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, consider using vegan cream cheese or a nut-based spread.
How many muffins does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 12 standard-sized muffins.
Final Thoughts
These Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins are not only simple to make but also incredibly satisfying. Their moistness and rich flavors make them perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Feel free to customize with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips for added delight!
Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins
Enjoy homemade Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe that are moist and delicious! Try this easy recipe today for your perfect treat!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 muffins 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin spice
- 15 oz pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 teaspoon milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your muffin tin with liners or grease lightly.
- In a large bowl, mix together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, and pumpkin spice.
- In another bowl, whisk pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine the wet mixture with dry ingredients until just mixed; some lumps are fine.
- For the filling, beat cream cheese with sugar, flour, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Spoon batter into muffin cups; add cream cheese filling in the center and top with more batter.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg


