STARBUCKS PUMPKIN CREAM CHEESE MUFFINS recipe

If you’ve ever enjoyed the seasonal delight of a Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffin at Starbucks, you know the magic of that soft, spiced pumpkin base paired with a rich, tangy cream cheese filling. These copycat Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins are a perfect homemade version, capturing all the warmth and comfort of the original treat. Bursting with pumpkin flavor, balanced by the gentle sweetness of vanilla and spices, they are an ideal pick-me-up for breakfast, dessert, or any time you crave a little something sweet.

These muffins are incredibly moist, thanks to the generous amount of pumpkin puree, and the cream cheese center adds a smooth, luscious surprise in every bite. They are surprisingly simple to make and don’t require any fancy equipment—just a few mixing bowls, a muffin tray, and your oven. Plus, you can customize them with toppings like oats or nuts to make them truly your own.

Whether you are looking to recreate a beloved coffee shop snack or just want to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of pumpkin and spices, these Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins are a must-try. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to make this Starbucks-inspired delight right at home!

Key Ingredients for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Muffin Magic

  • Flour – Forms the base of the muffin, giving structure while keeping it light and fluffy.
  • Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps to keep the muffins moist and tender.
  • Baking Powder and Baking Soda – Essential for a good rise, creating a perfectly domed muffin top.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice – A fragrant blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that infuses the muffins with cozy, autumnal flavor.
  • Pumpkin Puree – The star of the show, providing moisture, flavor, and that lovely orange hue.
  • Butter – Adds richness and a slightly nutty flavor once baked, while keeping the crumb tender.
  • Vanilla Extract – Enhances the sweetness and adds a subtle depth of flavor.
  • Egg – Acts as a binder and helps to give structure and lift to the muffins.

Creamy Filling

  • Cream Cheese – Softened to a smooth texture, the perfect tangy contrast to the sweet muffin base.
  • Vanilla Extract – A little extra vanilla in the filling complements the flavors in the muffin.
  • Flour – Helps to thicken the cream cheese mixture so it stays intact while baking.
  • Sugar – Adds just enough sweetness to balance the tang of the cream cheese.
  • Milk – Adds a bit of moisture to create a smooth, dollop-able filling.

Simple Steps to Deliciousness

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare your muffin tray with liners or a light coat of cooking spray.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg until smooth.
  4. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
  5. Spoon the muffin batter into the prepared tray, filling each cup about ¾ full.
  6. In a small bowl, blend all ingredients for the cream cheese filling until smooth and creamy.
  7. Using a piping bag or a Ziploc with the corner snipped off, add a dollop of the cream cheese mixture to the center of each muffin cup.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the muffin (avoiding the cream cheese) comes out clean.
  9. Allow the muffins to cool in the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Enjoy warm or at room temperature for a comforting treat that pairs perfectly with your favorite cup of coffee or tea!

Tips for the Perfect Muffins

  • For extra texture, sprinkle rolled oats or chopped nuts on top of each muffin before baking.
  • Be sure not to overmix the batter—this can cause the muffins to become dense.
  • To achieve a more pronounced cream cheese swirl, gently swirl the filling into the batter with a toothpick.

How to Store and Enjoy Leftovers

To keep your Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the muffins in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. The muffins will retain their moist texture and delicious flavor, ready to be savored whenever the craving strikes!

With these delightful muffins on hand, every day can feel like a cozy autumn morning. Happy baking!