As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven, filled with the irresistible aroma of fall. That’s when I whip up these delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins, a scrumptious blend of seasonal flavors wrapped in a quick, easy recipe that fits seamlessly into busy days. These muffins are not only a breeze to prepare in under 30 minutes, but they’re also a wonderful way to impress friends and family with a comforting treat. Each fluffy bite is swirled with cinnamon and topped with a creamy glaze, making them the perfect companion to your morning coffee or a heartwarming afternoon snack. What’s your favorite way to savor fall flavors in the kitchen?

Why are Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins a Must?
Cozy Flavors: These muffins capture the essence of fall in every bite with warm pumpkin and aromatic spices.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re perfect for a busy schedule without sacrificing comfort.
Impressive Treat: Serve them at gatherings to dazzle friends and family with minimal effort! Another festive option you might enjoy is Ingredient Chocolate Oat cookies for a sweet addition.
Versatile Delights: Enjoy them as breakfast, a snack, or a dessert, making them suitable for any occasion.
Irresistible Glaze: The cream cheese frosting adds a sweet finish, turning each muffin into a confection of joy!
Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffin Ingredients
For the Muffins
- Canned Pumpkin Puree – Adds moisture and rich pumpkin flavor; avoid sweetened pie filling for best results.
- Melted Butter (or Vegetable Oil) – Provides fat for tenderness; substitute vegetable oil if preferred.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the muffins; can be adjusted for less sweetness or substituted with coconut sugar for a lower GI option.
- Large Egg – Binds ingredients and adds richness; use a flax egg for a vegan version.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; use pure extract for the best quality.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; replace with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if needed.
- Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Leavening agents to ensure proper rise; check for gluten-free baking powder if necessary.
- Salt – Balances flavors.
- Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice; adjust according to preference.
For the Cinnamon Swirl
- Melted Butter – Adds rich flavor to the swirl.
- Brown Sugar – Brings depth of flavor and sweetness to the swirl.
- Ground Cinnamon – Reinforces the cinnamon theme found in the muffins.
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the glaze.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds additional flavor to the glaze.
- Milk – Adjusts the glaze consistency; add more for a thinner glaze.
Let these Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins transform your fall baking into a cozy tradition!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly baked finish for your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins. While the oven is warming up, take a moment to line a standard muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly with cooking spray to prevent any sticking.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree, ⅓ cup of melted butter (or vegetable oil), ¾ cup of granulated sugar, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined. You’re looking for a smooth, uniform mixture that captures all those cozy fall flavors. This will be the moist base for your delicious muffins.
Step 3: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. This blend of dry ingredients will provide structure and a wonderful spice element to your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins. Make sure there are no lumps for an even texture.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want your batter to remain light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving those tender muffins that are rich and moist, so stir gently to retain the air.
Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of melted butter, ¼ cup of brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Mix until it creates a cohesive swirl. This cinnamon mixture will add those delightful ribbons of flavor throughout your muffins, enhancing the overall taste and making each bite a cozy experience.
Step 6: Fill Muffin Liners
Fill each muffin liner halfway with the pumpkin batter, then drizzle a teaspoon of the cinnamon mixture on top. Gently cover each cinnamon swirl with more batter until the cups are about three-quarters full. Aim for a nice balance of batter and swirl for maximum flavor in your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The muffins are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the tops are slightly golden. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time, as oven temperatures can vary.
Step 8: Cool and Glaze
Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 10 minutes. While they cool, prepare the cream cheese glaze by whisking together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2-3 tablespoons of milk until smooth. This delicious glaze will add the finishing touch to your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins.
Step 9: Drizzle and Enjoy
Once your muffins have cooled slightly, drizzle the cream cheese glaze generously over the tops. This sweet, creamy layer is a perfect complement to the warm spices and pumpkin flavors. Serve these delightful muffins fresh, enjoying the cozy aromas and vibrant tastes of fall!

What to Serve with Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins
Cozying up with Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins is even more delightful when you pair them with complementary dishes that enhance their warm, spicy flavors.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery, smooth texture of mashed potatoes adds richness, making for a comforting meal alongside muffins.
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Hearty Butternut Squash Soup: The natural sweetness of this soup complements the spices in the muffins, creating a balanced and warming experience.
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Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots glazed with maple syrup echo the muffin’s sweetness while adding a pop of vibrant color to your plate.
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Apple Cider: Serve a glass of warm or chilled apple cider, amplifying the fall themes and tying together the seasonal flavors beautifully.
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Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in a chai latte enhance the cinnamon notes in your muffins, making for a cozy warming drink that’s perfect for any time of day.
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Mini Fruit Tart: For a sweet ending, serve a mini fruit tart; the fresh fruit brightens up the meal and adds a refreshing contrast to the muffins’ sweetness.
These delightful pairings not only elevate your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins but also create a heartwarming meal, perfect for enjoying during the crisp, cozy days of fall.
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins
Cinnamon Swirl Technique: Ensure you swirl the cinnamon mixture gently into the batter to create distinct pockets of flavor in your muffins.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins instead of fluffy Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins.
Oven Check: Baking times can vary based on your oven, so start checking for doneness a few minutes early with a toothpick to avoid overbaking.
Cool Before Glazing: Allow the muffins to cool for 10 minutes before adding the cream cheese glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting completely away.
Storage Tip: Keep baked muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days or freeze unfrosted for longer freshness. Thaw before glazing!
Storage Tips for Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins
Room Temperature: Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and moist.
Fridge: If you want to extend their life slightly, you can refrigerate the muffins; they will last for about 3 to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen muffins at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving. Reheat in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Add the cream cheese glaze just before serving for a fresh touch!
Make Ahead Options
These Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator, which saves valuable time on busy mornings. Additionally, you can mix the cinnamon swirl ingredients ahead and keep them in a separate airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, just spoon the chilled batter into muffin liners, add the swirl, and bake as directed. To maintain quality, be sure to cover the batter tightly to prevent drying out. Once baked, these delightful muffins can be frozen for up to 3 days. Dessert is a breeze when you have these Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins ready to go!
Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful muffins; there are endless ways to make them your own!
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Vegan Option: Substitute the egg with a flax egg, using 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water; let sit for 5 minutes before using in the recipe.
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make these muffins safe for those with gluten sensitivities. The flavor and texture remain just as fantastic!
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Flavor Twist: Try swapping pumpkin puree for applesauce or mashed banana for a fruity variation; this brings a different sweetness and moisture level to the muffins.
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Nutty Addition: Stir in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a delightful crunch. Nuts add not just texture but also a wonderful, heartwarming flavor that complements the spices beautifully.
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Spiced Up: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the batter. This will intensify the warm flavors and create a unique twist on traditional fall spices.
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Syrup Drizzle: Instead of a cream cheese glaze, consider drizzling warm maple syrup over the muffins before serving for a sweet, rustic touch. This pairs beautifully with the cinnamon flavors.
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Mini Muffins: Enjoy bite-sized portions by using a mini muffin tin; simply bake for around 12 minutes. Perfect for sharing and oh-so-fun to eat!
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Topping Ideas: Sprinkle a mix of granulated sugar and cinnamon on top before baking for a crunchy, sweet topping that adds an irresistible flair.
These variations can elevate your pumpkin muffins into a whole new treat, making your kitchen smell like a cozy autumn afternoon! And if you’re feeling adventurous, you might want to check out these Ingredient Chocolate Oat cookies for another delightful baking project!

Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right pumpkin puree?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use pure canned pumpkin puree instead of sweetened pie filling. Look for a rich orange color and thick consistency, which are signs of high quality—and if you’re feeling adventurous, consider roasting your own pumpkins for a homemade puree!
How should I store my Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins?
I recommend placing the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for about 3 to 5 days in an airtight container. This will help maintain their moistness and flavor.
Can I freeze Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins?
Yes, you can! To freeze, first place the unfrosted muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and you can keep them for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before adding the glaze and enjoy!
What could cause my muffins to be dense?
Very good question! Dense muffins usually result from overmixing the batter or not having an accurate measurement of baking powder and baking soda. When mixing wet and dry ingredients, stir gently until just combined to maintain the light and fluffy texture of your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins.
Are these muffins suitable for people with allergies?
When it comes to allergies, substitutions can be made! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, simply use plant-based milk in the cream cheese glaze and a flax egg in place of the large egg. Also, make sure to use a gluten-free flour blend if gluten is a concern for you or your guests. I absolutely recommend checking ingredient labels to ensure all substitutions fit dietary needs.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the muffins?
The more the merrier! Adding walnuts or chocolate chips can elevate the flavor profile and texture. If adding nuts, I usually recommend about ½ cup, and for chocolate chips, a handful will do just fine. Mix them in gently after combining the wet and dry ingredients!

Delightful Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Ready in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease lightly.
- In a large bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, melted butter, granulated sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon until blended.
- Fold dry mixture into wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- In a small bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix until cohesive.
- Fill each muffin liner halfway with batter, then drizzle a teaspoon of the cinnamon mixture on top. Cover with more batter.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean and tops are golden.
- Let muffins cool in the tin for about 10 minutes. Prepare the cream cheese glaze by whisking powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
- Drizzle glaze over the cooled muffins and enjoy!

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