Name: Cozy Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins with Creamy Glaze
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (Use plain pumpkin puree, not pie filling.); ½ cup melted butter (Can be substituted with vegetable oil.); ¾ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg (Binds the ingredients together.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1½ cups all-purpose flour (A gluten-free blend can be used.); 1 teaspoon baking soda (Essential for leavening.); 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (Offers warm flavor.); ¼ cup melted butter; ¼ cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ cup powdered sugar; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; 2–3 tablespoons milk (Adjust for consistency.)

The scent wafting from the oven is nothing short of magical, a cozy blend of sweet pumpkin and warm cinnamon that wraps you in its comforting embrace. Welcome to the irresistible world of Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins! These delightful treats merge the spiced goodness of pumpkin spice with cinnamon swirls, delivering all the comforts of a traditional cinnamon roll in a soft, muffin form. The best part? They’re quick to whip up, taking less than 30 minutes to bake and requiring simple ingredients you likely already have on hand. Perfect for those busy mornings or as a lovely afternoon snack, these muffins promise to brighten your day. Ready to indulge in a cozy baking experience that brings autumn straight to your kitchen?

Why are Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins perfect?

Quick, hassle-free creation: These Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are not only delicious but incredibly easy to make, requiring under 30 minutes from start to finish.

Irresistible spice and sweetness: With a delightful blend of pumpkin, cinnamon, and a creamy glaze, each bite brings fall flavors to life.

Versatile enjoyment: Enjoy them warm for breakfast or with your afternoon coffee; they’re versatile for any time of day!

Perfect for sharing: Bake a batch and watch them disappear at gatherings. Their delightful aroma and taste are sure to impress.

For more fall-inspired treats, check out my Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins or get creative with some Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes!

Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffin Ingredients

These delightful muffins are packed with flavor and joy!

For the Muffins

1 cup canned pumpkin puree – Provides moisture and a rich pumpkin flavor; use plain pumpkin puree, not pie filling.
½ cup melted butter – Adds richness and moisture; can be substituted with vegetable oil for a lighter option.
¾ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the muffins perfectly.
1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together and contributes to the structure.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor beautifully.
1½ cups all-purpose flour – Forms the base; a gluten-free blend can be used as a substitute.
1 teaspoon baking soda – Essential for leavening the muffins.
1 teaspoon baking powder – Contributes to the rise alongside baking soda.
½ teaspoon salt – Balances out the sweetness wonderfully.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Offers warm, spicy flavor that complements pumpkin so well.

For the Cinnamon Swirl

¼ cup melted butter – Creates the rich cinnamon swirl; don’t skip this step!
¼ cup brown sugar – Adds deep sweetness and richness to the swirl.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Enhances the cinnamon flavor throughout the muffins.

For the Cream Cheese Glaze

½ cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the glaze for a delicious finish.
½ teaspoon vanilla extract – Boosts flavor in the glaze effortlessly.
2–3 tablespoons milk – Adjusts the glaze consistency; use more for a thinner drizzle.

Get ready to delight in these cozy Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins that are perfect for any time of day!

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 that your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins bake evenly and rise beautifully. While the oven warms up, line a muffin tin with paper liners to simplify cleanup and give your muffins a lovely presentation.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of canned pumpkin puree, ½ cup of melted butter, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined, creating a rich base for your muffins that embodies the essence of fall.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This step helps incorporate the leavening agents evenly, ensuring your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins rise perfectly and have a lovely warm spice flavor throughout.

Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding them together gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This creates a tender muffin batter infused with rich pumpkin flavor—a lovely blend that will delight your taste buds!

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together ¼ cup of melted butter, ¼ cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Stir until smooth and well combined. This delightful cinnamon swirl mixture will add an irresistible flavor profile to your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins and create beautiful pockets of sweetness.

Step 6: Fill the Muffin Liners
Spoon the muffin batter into the prepared muffin liners, filling each about halfway. Then, add a generous spoonful of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top of each muffin batter. Finally, cover the swirl with a bit more muffin batter, filling the liners about two-thirds full, to ensure they rise beautifully in the oven.

Step 7: Bake the Muffins
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The muffins are done when they’re golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will be filled with the warm, inviting aroma of pumpkin and cinnamon—a true sign of cozy baking!

Step 8: Create the Cream Cheese Glaze
While the muffins are baking, prepare the cream cheese glaze. In a bowl, combine ½ cup of powdered sugar, ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk. Whisk until you reach your desired consistency, ensuring it’s smooth and ready to drizzle once the muffins have cooled a bit.

Step 9: Cool and Drizzle
Once the muffins have baked, allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This prevents them from getting soggy and allows the flavors to settle. After they’re slightly cooled, drizzle your creamy glaze generously over the tops, adding a sweet finishing touch to your delicious Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins.

Make Ahead Options

These Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter and fill the muffin liners, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This means you can enjoy freshly baked muffins with minimal morning effort. If you prefer, you can also bake the muffins in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just remember to let the muffins cool completely before freezing to maintain their soft texture. When ready to serve, simply reheat the muffins in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, drizzle with the cream cheese glaze, and savor the delightful taste of fall!

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Room Temperature: Keep your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This will help maintain their soft texture and delightful flavor.

Fridge: If you want to extend their life, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week. Just remember that they may become a bit denser, so consider warming them before enjoying.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins for up to 3 months. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container and reheat directly from the freezer for a quick and easy treat.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through. This brings back their lovely, fresh-baked aroma!

Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffin Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these muffins your own with these fun variations!

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these muffins without gluten. You’ll still experience that delightful fluffy texture and rich flavor!
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter and almond milk for the glaze for a delicious dairy-free twist. The muffins stay moist and flavorful while catering to dietary needs.
Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch. This will give your muffins an exciting texture and elevate the autumn flavor profile.
Pumpkin Spice Boost: For enhanced pumpkin spice flavor, mix in an additional teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to the batter. This will add depth and bring an extra warmth that’s perfect for fall.
Mini Muffins: Use a mini muffin tin to create bite-sized treats. Bake for about 10-15 minutes for adorable, poppable muffins that are perfect for sharing.
Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Before baking, sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar on top of the muffins for a sweet, crunchy crust. It adds a lovely contrast to the soft muffin texture.
Maple Glaze: Swap the cream cheese glaze for a simple maple glaze made with powdered sugar and pure maple syrup. This will introduce a natural sweetness that complements the pumpkin beautifully.

As you explore these variations, don’t forget to enjoy them alongside a cup of warm coffee or tea! If you’re craving more delicious pumpkin delights, consider trying my Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins for another cozy experience or indulge your sweet tooth with some Pumpkin Sugar Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting!

Expert Tips for Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to keep the muffins tender. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins that lose their fluffy texture.
Watch Baking Time: Each oven is different; check your muffins at 20 minutes. They should be golden and a toothpick should come out clean to ensure perfect Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins.
Cool Before Glazing: Let muffins cool slightly before adding the cream cheese glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting and allows for a beautiful, appetizing finish.
Customize Flavor: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for an extra depth of flavor in your muffins. They pair wonderfully with the pumpkin and cinnamon!
Storage Tips: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze unfrosted muffins—just reheat before serving.

What to Serve with Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Cozy up your mealtime experience with delicious pairings that will elevate these delightful muffins into a full, comforting feast.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The silky texture of mashed potatoes enhances the muffins’ soft crumb, making for a comforting dish duo.
Apple Cinnamon Overnight Oats: These oats bring a delightful crunch and fruity sweetness to the table, perfectly balancing the warm spices of your muffins. Breakfast bliss awaits!
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a bright, juicy contrast to the muffins’ rich flavors, making every bite feel like a new adventure.
Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these carrots connect beautifully with the autumnal flavors of pumpkin and cinnamon, creating a harmonious plate.
Chai Latte: The aromatic warmth of a chai latte amplifies the cozy vibes of your muffins, making it the perfect drink for a chilly morning.
Spiced Apple Cider: Serve warm for a nostalgic touch; its fruity spices echo the muffins’ flavor, creating a deliciously cozy experience.
Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of granola over yogurt can offer a delightful crunch when served alongside the muffins — an enjoyable way to start your day.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the season with this creamy, spiced beverage that resonates with the flavors of your muffins, celebrating autumn in a cup.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert lovers, this pairing creates a playful mix of flavors and textures — the soft muffins and chewy cookies complement each other wonderfully.

Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe FAQs

What type of pumpkin puree should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture in your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins, use plain canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugars and spices that can alter the taste and consistency of your muffins.

How should I store these muffins?
Store your Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week but keep in mind they may become denser. Always warm them slightly before serving!

Can I freeze Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins?
Yes, you can! To freeze the muffins, ensure they are completely cool, then place unfrosted muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them directly from the freezer in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

What should I do if my muffins sink in the middle?
Very! Sinking can happen when the batter is too wet or if there’s too much leavening. Make sure you’re measuring the flour correctly and not overmixing, as that can lead to volume loss. Stick to the recipe’s recommended amounts for best results.

Are these muffins safe for my gluten-sensitive friends?
Yes, indeed! You can easily make these Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Muffins gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check that all other ingredients you use are also gluten-free.

How long does the cream cheese glaze last?
The cream cheese glaze can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before using it as it may thicken. If you have leftover glaze, drizzle it over other treats for an extra touch of sweetness!