Welcome to the delightful world of homemade Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Muffins, where the warmth of fall spices meets the fluffiness of a classic muffin. These muffins are an embodiment of autumn, capturing its essence in every bite with their cinnamon-coated tops and rich pumpkin flavor. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning with a cup of coffee or seeking a treat to share at your next fall gathering, these muffins promise to be a sensational experience. What sets this recipe apart is the perfect blend of traditional snickerdoodle textures with the cozy pumpkin flavor, creating a blissful harmony that delights the senses.
The simplicity and elegance of these muffins make them a perennial favorite, yet they also offer the opportunity to explore creativity in the kitchen. From the bustling rush of holiday baking to a relaxing weekend brunch, they suit any occasion with grace and ease. Packed with comforting spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, and topped with a sweet cinnamon-sugar coating, each muffin offers a tender crumb and an irresistible aroma. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who adores the nostalgic touch of pumpkin flavor.
Now, let’s embark on this baking adventure, where we’ll discover the magic of creating these delectable muffins. With a few simple ingredients and some thoughtful preparation, you’ll be enjoying these scrumptious muffins in no time. So, gather your utensils, preheat your oven, and let’s dive into this flavorful world of Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Muffins!
Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Muffin Recipe
- Flavorful Delight: Combines the rich taste of pumpkin with classic snickerdoodle spices.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps and readily available ingredients make this recipe accessible to all.
- Perfect for Fall: A quintessential fall treat that warms both the kitchen and the soul.
- Versatile: Ideal for breakfast, a snack, or a delightful dessert.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the recipe, it’s important to set up your workspace for a smooth baking experience. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature when your muffin batter is ready. This helps the muffins rise beautifully and cook evenly. Prepare a muffin tin by either lining it with muffin liners or lightly greasing it with a bit of oil or butter, focusing on ensuring non-stick properties.
Next, gather your mixing bowls, measuring cups, and spoons as these will be your main tools for combining the ingredients. A whisk will be particularly handy for blending the wet ingredients into a smooth mixture. If you have a wooden spoon or spatula, it will be ideal for folding the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients without over-mixing, ensuring a tender muffin texture. A cooling rack will also be essential for allowing the muffins to cool completely without becoming soggy.
You might also want to have a small bowl for preparing the cinnamon-sugar coating, along with a pastry brush for applying the melted butter to each muffin top, assisting the sugar-cinnamon mixture in adhering beautifully. With these tools ready, you’re all set to create these delightful Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Muffins.

Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pumpkin purée
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for coating)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a consistent temperature, allowing the muffins to cook evenly. Simultaneously, line your muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup with a non-stick spray or butter.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Stir these together until evenly combined, which provides a consistent distribution of flavors in each muffin.
Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, large egg, vanilla extract, and milk. Ensure the mixture is smooth and homogenous, achieving an even base that holds the muffins together.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet blend — a technique that prevents over-mixing. Stir just until the two mixtures come together, resulting in a batter that encourages fluffy muffins.
Step 5: Fill and Bake
Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for approximately 18-20 minutes. Use a toothpick to check for doneness; if it comes out clean, they’re ready to be removed from the oven.
Step 6: Cool and Coat
Once out of the oven, let the muffins sit in their tin for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, stir together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for coating. Melt the butter and brush it lightly over each muffin top, and promptly dip into the cinnamon-sugar mix for a perfectly spiced crust.

Variations
- Protein: Add a handful of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture and protein.
- Vegetables: Substitute half of the pumpkin purée with pureed sweet potatoes for a twist on flavor.
- Spices: Incorporate a pinch of cardamom for an exotic aromatic touch, enhancing the muffins’ warm, cozy notes.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure all cold ingredients are at room temperature; this helps the batter to mix uniformly.
- For a richer flavor, consider using pumpkin puree made from fresh roasted pumpkins.
- If the cinnamon-sugar mixture doesn’t adhere well, apply a second coat of butter for a crunchy topping.
- These muffins store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream cheese for a delightful breakfast option.
- Pair with a chai latte or a hot cup of coffee to enhance the warm, spicy flavors.
Tips
- Use a cookie scoop to achieve evenly sized muffins, ensuring consistent baking.
- Double the recipe as these muffins freeze well, offering a convenient make-ahead option for busy mornings.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 180 per muffin
- Protein: 3 grams
- Sodium: 150 mg
FAQs
How can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it’s one that includes xanthan gum to maintain texture.
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, roasted and pureed fresh pumpkin works beautifully, sometimes adding a bit more moisture and flavor depth to your muffins.
How should I store these muffins?
Keep the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil?
Apple sauce or melted coconut oil can be used as a healthier alternative, each providing a slight variation in flavor and texture.
Conclusion
These Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Muffins are not just a treat; they are an experience of warmth, nostalgia, and culinary delight that perfectly captures the essence of fall. Their delightful blend of spices and pumpkin, crowned with that irresistible cinnamon sugar coating, makes them a culinary masterpiece worth sharing. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast option, a mid-day snack, or a comforting dessert, these muffins add a touch of cozy autumn charm to any table.
We hope you enjoy baking and savoring these muffins as much as we have enjoyed sharing the recipe with you. Don’t hesitate to experiment with our suggested variations or incorporate your unique twists. We encourage you to share your memories and moments created with these muffins in the comments below. Your stories and feedback not only inspire others but also create a warm community around this delightful treat. Happy baking!
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Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Muffins
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins 1x
Description
These Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Muffins are not just a treat; they are an experience of warmth, nostalgia, and culinary delight that perfectly captures the essence of fall.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pumpkin purée
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for coating)
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a consistent temperature, allowing the muffins to cook evenly. Simultaneously, line your muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup with a non-stick spray or butter.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Stir these together until evenly combined, which provides a consistent distribution of flavors in each muffin.
- In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin purée, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, large egg, vanilla extract, and milk. Ensure the mixture is smooth and homogenous, achieving an even base that holds the muffins together.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet blend — a technique that prevents over-mixing. Stir just until the two mixtures come together, resulting in a batter that encourages fluffy muffins.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for approximately 18-20 minutes. Use a toothpick to check for doneness; if it comes out clean, they’re ready to be removed from the oven.
- Once out of the oven, let the muffins sit in their tin for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, stir together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for coating. Melt the butter and brush it lightly over each muffin top, and promptly dip into the cinnamon-sugar mix for a perfectly spiced crust.
Notes
Ensure all cold ingredients are at room temperature; this helps the batter to mix uniformly. If the cinnamon-sugar mixture doesn’t adhere well, apply a second coat of butter for a crunchy topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
Nutrition
- Calories: 180 per muffin
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Protein: 3 grams