Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins are the ultimate fall comfort baked right into a handheld treat. These muffins perfectly balance warm pumpkin spice flavors with a rich, tangy swirl of cream cheese, creating a bakery-style result you can enjoy at home. Whether you’re pairing them with a hot mug of coffee or serving them at a weekend brunch, they’re sure to become a seasonal staple.
Baking them fills your kitchen with the cozy aroma of autumn, and with simple pantry staples, they’re easy to whip up anytime. Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this recipe such a standout.
Table of Contents
❤️ Why I Love These Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins
These muffins hit that perfect balance of cozy and indulgent — the warm pumpkin spice makes them feel like fall in every bite, while the cream cheese swirl adds a bakery-style richness that’s hard to resist. They’re easy enough for a weekday bake, yet special enough for a weekend brunch or holiday spread. Plus, they freeze beautifully, so I can always keep a batch on hand when the pumpkin cravings hit!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these delicious Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins:
For the Muffin Batter
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Swirl
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg yolk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
These ingredients come together to create moist, spiced muffins with a luscious cream cheese center that’s just sweet enough.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to bake perfect Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins every time:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease.
- Make the batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Make the cream cheese filling: In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until soft. Add sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla, mixing until smooth.
- Fill the muffin cups: Add a spoonful of muffin batter to each liner, filling about ⅔ of the way. Top each with a generous teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture.
- Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter for a marbled effect.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the muffin (not the cream cheese center) comes out clean.
- Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Recipe Details & Nutrition
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 12 muffins
Nutrition Facts (Per Muffin – Estimated)
- Calories: ~260
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 18g
- Protein: 4g
These muffins offer a balanced blend of creamy indulgence and warm spice without being overly sweet.
Tips & Variations
Tips for Perfect Muffins
- Don’t overmix the batter — this ensures tender, fluffy muffins. Stir just until ingredients are combined.
- Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother swirl that’s easier to blend.
- Swirl gently using a toothpick — too much mixing can muddle the layers instead of marbling them.
Variations
- Add chocolate chips to the batter for an extra indulgent treat.
- Top with streusel before baking for added crunch and sweetness.
- Use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized versions — just reduce baking time accordingly.
🎃 Other Pumpkin Recipes
- Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins
Moist, fluffy muffins packed with warm spices and gooey chocolate chips — a perfect lunchbox or coffee break treat. - Pumpkin Bread with Maple Glaze
Classic, cozy, and topped with a silky maple glaze that takes it over the top. - Pumpkin Spice Pancakes
Fluffy, warmly spiced pancakes ideal for crisp fall mornings and weekend brunches. - Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
A delicious layered dessert with a graham cracker crust, spiced pumpkin layer, and creamy cheesecake swirl. - Savory Pumpkin Pasta
A creamy, comforting dish where pumpkin meets garlic, parmesan, and herbs for a cozy weeknight dinner twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! These muffins store well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Q: Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Wrap individually and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for 20–30 seconds.
Q: Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?
Yes, just make sure it’s thick and not watery. Strain excess liquid if needed.
Conclusion
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Swirl Muffins are the perfect cozy treat for fall mornings, bake sales, or an anytime snack. With their tender pumpkin base and creamy swirl, they deliver flavor, texture, and comfort in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, this easy recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.