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As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, seasonal baking takes center stage, particularly with the beloved flavor of pumpkin. Autumn heralds the arrival of pumpkin-themed treats, and among them, Pumpkin Cream Cheese Delight Muffins stand out with their unique twist. These muffins combine the warm, comforting flavors of traditional pumpkin spice with a luscious cream cheese filling that elevates the experience. Perfectly balanced in flavor and texture, these delightful muffins make a wonderful addition to any fall gathering or a cozy breakfast at home.

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Indulge in the flavors of fall with Pumpkin Cream Cheese Delight Muffins! These moist muffins are filled with a creamy, dreamy cream cheese center, combining the rich taste of pumpkin with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfect for breakfast, a cozy afternoon snack, or as a delightful dessert, they are sure to impress at any gathering. Bake a batch and fill your home with the comforting aroma of autumn!

Ingredients
  

For the Muffin Batter:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

½ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ teaspoon ground ginger

½ cup granulated sugar

½ cup packed brown sugar

1 cup canned pumpkin puree (ensure it is not pumpkin pie filling)

½ cup vegetable oil

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cream Cheese Filling:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature

¼ cup powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 egg yolk

For Topping (Optional):

¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts

1 tablespoon granulated sugar for sprinkling

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a muffin tin by lining it with paper liners or by spraying it with non-stick cooking spray.

    Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and egg yolk. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to beat the mixture until it is smooth and creamy. Set this filling aside.

      Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, thoroughly whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Ensure that all dry ingredients are well combined.

        Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and glossy.

          Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the wet mixture to the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; it’s important to avoid overmixing—some small lumps are perfectly fine.

            Add the Cream Cheese Filling: Spoon the pumpkin batter into each muffin cup, filling them about two-thirds full. Then, take a spoonful of the prepared cream cheese filling and place it on top of the batter in each muffin cup. Finally, cover the cream cheese filling with a little more of the pumpkin batter until the cups are about three-quarters full.

              Optional Topping: If desired, sprinkle the tops of each muffin with chopped nuts and a light dusting of granulated sugar for added crunch and sweetness.

                Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the muffin (avoiding the cream cheese center); it should come out clean when the muffins are ready.

                  Cool: Once baked, allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 to 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                    Serve: Enjoy your delightful Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins warm, or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

                      Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 12 muffins

                        - Presentation Tips: Serve the muffins on a decorative plate, perhaps garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few crushed nuts around the edges for added visual appeal.