Name: Cozy Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins with Creamy Glaze
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (Ensure you use plain pumpkin puree, not pie filling.); ½ cup melted butter (Or use vegetable oil.); ¾ cup granulated sugar (You can substitute with brown sugar for a richer taste.); 1 large egg (Binds ingredients together.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Enhances the overall flavor profile.); 1½ cups all-purpose flour (You can replace it with a gluten-free flour blend if desired.); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Acts as a leavening agent.); 1 teaspoon baking powder (Works with baking soda for fluffiness.); ½ teaspoon salt (Enhances flavors.); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Adds warm spice.); ¼ cup melted butter (Creates a rich swirl.); ¼ cup brown sugar (Adds depth of sweetness.); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Brings delight to the swirl mixture.); ½ cup powdered sugar (Sweetens the glaze.); ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (Enhances glaze flavor.); 2–3 tablespoons milk (Use more for thinner glaze.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the crisp air of fall sweeps in, I find myself reaching for comforting flavors that warm both the heart and the kitchen. I recently whipped up a batch of Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins, and let me tell you—these little gems are the perfect blend of spiced pumpkin goodness and cinnamon sweetness. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re a fantastic way to brighten your mornings or offer a cozy afternoon snack without the fuss of yeast. The soft texture of these muffins, paired with a luscious cream cheese glaze, is bound to become a beloved staple in your home. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with the inviting aroma of fall? Let’s get baking!

Why are Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins special?

Quick and Easy: These muffins come together in just 30 minutes, making them a perfect solution for busy mornings or last-minute cravings.

Deliciously Spiced: The combination of pumpkin and warm cinnamon creates a comforting flavor that’s as inviting as a cozy sweater in fall.

No Yeast Needed: Enjoy all the delightful cinnamon roll flavors without the hassle of yeast or rising time—just mix, bake, and indulge!

Customizable: Feel free to make these muffins your own by adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture or deliciousness.

Perfect Pairing: Serve warm with your favorite cup of coffee or tea, just like you would with my Hawaiian Roll French toast or Cinnamon Zucchini Coffee cake for a well-rounded treat.

Crowd Pleaser: Whether it’s for a brunch gathering or a simple afternoon snack, these muffins are guaranteed to impress family and friends!

Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Ingredients

For the Muffins
• 1 cup canned pumpkin puree – Adds moisture and flavor; ensure you use plain pumpkin puree, not pie filling.
• ½ cup melted butter (or sub vegetable oil) – Provides richness and moisture for a tender crumb.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the muffins beautifully; you can substitute with brown sugar for a richer taste.
• 1 large egg – Binds ingredients together and adds structure to the muffins.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile of your muffins.
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour – Ensures structure; you can replace it with a gluten-free flour blend if desired.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent for a perfect rise.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Works with baking soda for an even fluffier muffin.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors throughout the muffin batter.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds that warm spice essential for Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins.

For the Cinnamon Swirl
• ¼ cup melted butter – Creates a rich and decadent swirl in every muffin.
• ¼ cup brown sugar – Introduces an additional depth of sweetness to the swirl.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Brings a delightful flavor to the swirl mixture.

For the Cream Cheese Glaze
• ½ cup powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the glaze for a creamy finish.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the glaze, making it extra special.
• 2–3 tablespoons milk (use more for thinner glaze) – Adjust the consistency of the glaze to your liking for the perfect drizzle.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a standard muffin tin with a light coat of cooking spray or butter. This will ensure that your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins slide out easily after baking. While your oven heats, gather all your ingredients and prepare your workspace to make the process efficient and enjoyable.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree, ½ cup of melted butter, and ¾ cup of granulated sugar along with 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth and creamy. The mixture should have a luscious texture, inviting the warm flavors of fall into your kitchen.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Make sure the ingredients are well combined to ensure that your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins rise beautifully. The dry mixture will create a fluffy base for your muffins.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until just combined, avoiding over-mixing to keep your muffins tender. The batter should be thick but well combined, with no flour streaks remaining. Take care not to overwork the batter, as this will affect the final texture.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small mixing bowl, combine ¼ cup of melted butter, ¼ cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to create a delicious cinnamon swirl mixture. Mix until combined, making sure it has a smooth, cohesive texture. This sweet mixture will add delightful pockets of cinnamon flavor to your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins.

Step 6: Assemble the Muffins
Scoop the muffin batter into each greased muffin cup, filling them about halfway. Next, add a small spoonful of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top of the batter in each cup, then fill with the remaining muffin batter until just below the rim. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter. This creates those delightful, sweet swirls in the muffins.

Step 7: Bake the Muffins
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. Keep an eye on the muffins as they bake; they should rise nicely and be golden brown on top. The aroma of pumpkin and cinnamon will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist.

Step 8: Cool and Drizzle Glaze
Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Meanwhile, prepare the cream cheese glaze by whisking together ½ cup of powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2-3 tablespoons of milk until you achieve a smooth, drizzling consistency.

Step 9: Glaze the Muffins
Once the muffins have cooled, generously drizzle the cream cheese glaze over each muffin. The glaze should beautifully coat the tops, adding a luscious finish to each Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffin. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together for that perfect bite.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing deliciousness! You can prepare the muffin batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the cinnamon swirl mixture can also be made ahead and kept covered. When you’re ready to bake, simply fill the muffin cups and swirl in the cinnamon mixture, then bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy freshly baked muffins in no time, even on hectic mornings. Just make sure to check the batter for any separation before using it, and you’ll have warm, spiced muffins ready to delight your family!

What to Serve with Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Pairing these fluffy delights with complementary sides can elevate your cozy experience to a full comfort feast.

Warm Chai Tea: The spicy notes of chai perfectly enhance the pumpkin and cinnamon flavors, making for an inviting blend that warms the soul.
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: This unexpected savory side contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the muffins, creating a delicious yin and yang of flavors.
Apple Cider: A glass of crisp apple cider captures the essence of autumn, enriching your muffin enjoyment with fruity undertones that harmonize perfectly with pumpkin.
Maple Bacon: The salty crunch of crispy bacon pairs excellently with the sweetness of the muffins, offering a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their nutty flavor and satisfying crunch create an unexpected yet complimentary side, while the caramelized notes tie back to the muffins’ sweetness.
Whipped Cream Cheese: A dollop of fluffy cream cheese spread adds extra creaminess that’s perfect for slathering on warm muffins right before enjoying.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream: For dessert lovers, a scoop of this ice cream on the side brings a sweet and decadent finish that contrasts beautifully with the muffin’s spices.
Cinnamon-Spiced Hot Chocolate: The warmth of this drink mirrors that of the muffins, offering a comforting pairing perfect for a chilly day.
Caramel Pecan Cheesecake: For a special treat, serve these muffins alongside a slice of rich cheesecake, the nuts and caramel will balance muffin flavors delightfully.

Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins uniquely yours!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a perfect gluten-free treat.
This way, even those with gluten sensitivities can indulge in these delicious muffins without worry!
Mini Muffins: Use mini muffin tins and reduce the baking time to around 12 minutes for bite-sized treats.
These adorable mini muffins are perfect for a snack or a sweet addition to brunch!
Nutty Crunch: Mix in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture that complements the soft muffin.
The added nuts provide a delightful contrast to the fluffy interior and enhance the flavor profile.
Chocolate Chips: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips right before baking for an extra sweet surprise.
Chocolate and pumpkin make a surprisingly delicious pair that your family will adore!
Pumpkin Spice Swirl: Add 1 tablespoon of pumpkin spice to the cinnamon swirl mixture for an explosion of flavor.
It adds a bold kick that enhances the cozy fall flavors beautifully, elevating your muffins even further.
Maple Glaze: Switch the cream cheese glaze for a maple glaze using maple syrup in place of milk.
This creates a delightful twist that complements the pumpkin flavor with a hint of sweetness.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter for a surprising warmth that balances out the sweetness.
Just a touch of heat can elevate the overall experience, giving your muffins a unique edge.
Caramel Drizzle: Top with a warm caramel drizzle instead of glaze for an indulgent treat.
The richness of caramel is a perfect match for the flavors in these muffins, making every bite heavenly.

If you’re looking for more delicious ideas, be sure to check out my Double Chocolate Muffins or delicious Spring Rolls Peanut for some extra culinary inspiration!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Room Temperature: Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you want them to last a little longer, you can refrigerate the muffins for up to 5 days; just be sure to wrap them tightly to avoid drying out.

Freezer: Freeze unfrosted muffins in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving and glaze for a delightful treat.

Reheating: To enjoy a warm muffin, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds or reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

• Mix Gently: Avoid over-mixing the batter to keep your muffins light and fluffy. Overworking the mixture can lead to dense muffins.

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter, ensuring even mixing and a better rise in the Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins.

• Swirl Wisely: When adding the cinnamon swirl, mix it in just a couple of times. This will create delicious pockets of cinnamon instead of fully combining it into the batter.

• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test for doneness. If it comes out clean, your muffins are ready; otherwise, they need more baking time.

• Customize to Taste: Feel free to add your favorite extras like nuts or chocolate chips to make your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins uniquely your own!

• Storage Tip: To keep them fresh, store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! You should use plain canned pumpkin puree for these muffins. Avoid pumpkin pie filling, as it’s often too sweet and spiced for this recipe. Look for a can that simply lists “pumpkin” as the only ingredient.

How should I store Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins?
Store your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, they can be kept in the fridge for about 5 days. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent drying out!

Can I freeze Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins and how?
Very! To freeze, place unfrosted muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and drizzle with glaze.

What if my muffins come out dense?
If your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter, which can make the muffins tough. Ensure to mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined, and also check that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for a good rise.

Can these muffins be made gluten-free?
Yes, they can! Simply replace the 1½ cups of all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. It’s one of my favorite adaptations for those with gluten sensitivities, and they still turn out wonderfully!

Are these muffins safe for pets or those with allergies?
Be cautious! These muffins contain common allergens such as eggs, dairy, and gluten. If you’re sharing with pets, avoid giving them any as ingredients like chocolate and sugar can harm them. Always consult with a healthcare provider for specific dietary restrictions or allergy concerns.