Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins – 1 Easy Fall Favorite

There’s something undeniably cozy about biting into a soft, spiced muffin on a crisp autumn morning — and these Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins deliver that comforting experience in every bite. Packed with warm spices, topped with a buttery crumb, and finished with a drizzle of maple icing, they’re as indulgent as they are easy to make. Whether you’re hosting a fall brunch, packing school snacks, or simply craving a seasonal baked good, this recipe is your go-to for irresistible pumpkin flavor.

What Makes These Muffins a Must-Bake?

These pumpkin crumb cake muffins go far beyond your average pumpkin muffin. They strike a perfect balance between moist cake and crunchy topping, with layers of flavor that make them feel like something out of a bakery case. The magic lies in the combination of pumpkin puree, fall spices, and a generous crumb topping enhanced with pumpkin pie spice. The optional maple icing ties it all together with a sweet finish.

Ingredients for the Perfect Pumpkin Muffin

These muffins rely on pantry staples but create complex textures and flavors. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• All-Purpose Flour: Creates a tender, structured base.
• Baking Soda: Leavening agent for a fluffy rise.
• Ground Cinnamon: Deep, warming spice essential for fall bakes.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: A fragrant blend of nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and allspice.
• Salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness.
• Canola or Vegetable Oil: Keeps the muffins moist and tender.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness and lightness.
• Brown Sugar: Brings moisture and a hint of molasses depth.
• Canned Pumpkin Puree: The star ingredient for rich pumpkin flavor and soft texture.
• Large Eggs: Provide structure and help bind the ingredients.
• Milk (Any Kind): Loosens the batter and adds creaminess.

Crumb Topping

• All-Purpose Flour: Base for the crumble.
• Granulated & Brown Sugar: Dual sweeteners for flavor and caramel notes.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: Carries the fall theme through the topping.
• Unsalted Butter (Melted): Adds richness and helps the crumb form.

Maple Icing (Optional but Recommended)

• Confectioners’ Sugar: Smooth, sweet base for the icing.
• Pure Maple Syrup: Natural sweetener with deep, woody flavor.
• Milk: Adjusts the consistency for easy drizzling.

Ingredient Substitutions for Dietary Needs or Convenience

• Oil Alternative: Melted coconut oil or light olive oil can be used.
• Milk Options: Use almond, oat, soy, or whole milk as needed.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice Substitute: Combine ¼ tsp each of nutmeg, ginger, cloves, allspice + ½ tsp cinnamon.
• Butter Substitute in Topping: Use plant-based butter or margarine for a dairy-free version.
• Maple Syrup: Swap with honey or agave syrup in the icing.

How to Make Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins Step-by-Step

1. Preheat the Oven: Set to 425°F (218°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or spray with nonstick spray. This recipe yields 15 muffins, so prep a second pan if needed.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, and milk until smooth.
4. Make the Batter: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fill Muffin Cups: Divide batter evenly, filling each cup almost full.
6. Prepare the Crumb Topping: In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugars, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir in melted butter with a fork until crumbs form. Top each muffin generously, gently pressing the crumbs into the batter.
7. Bake in Two Steps: Bake for 5 minutes at 425°F, then without opening the oven, reduce heat to 350°F (177°C) and bake for an additional 16–17 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Cool Slightly: Let muffins rest in the pan for 10 minutes.
9. Drizzle Icing: Whisk together icing ingredients and drizzle over warm muffins before serving.

Tips to Elevate Your Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: This keeps the crumb light and the texture fluffy.
• Press the Crumb Gently: Helps it adhere during baking and gives a bakery-style top.
• Use Room Temperature Eggs and Milk: Ensures even mixing and better rise.
• Mini Muffin Version: Bake mini muffins at 350°F for 11–13 minutes.
• Freeze for Later: Store iced or plain muffins in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and warm before serving.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These pumpkin crumb cake muffins are incredibly versatile. Here are a few creative ways to serve and modify them:

• With Coffee: Perfect morning match, especially with pumpkin-spiced coffee.
• Add Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add crunch and earthiness.
• Make Them Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Skip the Icing: Still delicious without, especially for breakfast on-the-go.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or black pepper for a subtle heat contrast.
• Pair with Whipped Cream: Serve warm muffins with a dollop of spiced whipped cream as a dessert.

Why These Pumpkin Muffins are Fall’s Favorite

Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins aren’t just another seasonal bake — they’re a fall essential. The blend of cozy spices, soft cake, and crunchy topping makes each bite deeply satisfying. Plus, with minimal prep and no need for a mixer, they’re accessible to bakers of all levels. Whether you enjoy them warm from the oven, as a sweet afternoon snack, or from the freezer on a busy weekday, these muffins bring fall flavor front and center.

Bringing It All Together

If you’re searching for the ultimate fall treat, Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins are the answer. They’re cozy, flavorful, and bursting with seasonal warmth in every bite. The spiced crumb topping and maple icing make these muffins truly unforgettable — whether you’re serving them for brunch, enjoying one with coffee, or freezing a batch for the week ahead.

Not only are they easy to whip up with pantry staples, but they’re also incredibly adaptable. With just one recipe, you can go from basic breakfast muffin to bakery-worthy dessert. So grab your canned pumpkin, preheat that oven, and make your kitchen smell like fall.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins

More Relevant Recipes

• Pineapple Quick Bread: This moist and fruity quick bread is perfect for breakfast or dessert, much like the Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins. With a tender crumb and tropical sweetness, it’s a delightful twist on traditional loaf cakes and a great complement to spiced seasonal treats.
• Birthday Cake Banana Bread: This playful banana bread is sweet, colorful, and indulgent — perfect for those who enjoy soft, moist baked goods with a celebratory twist. Its cake-like texture and rich flavor make it a fun alternative to pumpkin-based muffins.
• Cream Cheese Filled Banana Bread: Combining the comforting flavors of banana bread with a rich cream cheese filling, this recipe offers a texture and richness similar to Pumpkin Crumb Cake Muffins. It’s an ideal choice for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack.

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