Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: 280-Calorie Delight

These Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: 280-Calorie Delight are a seasonal favorite, perfect for breakfast, a delightful snack, or an irresistible dessert. With their moist pumpkin base and a crunchy streusel topping, they offer a comforting treat that embodies the essence of fall. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or tea, and share them with friends and family for any cozy occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and pumpkin creates a warm and inviting taste that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it ideal for both novice and experienced bakers.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even as a dessert at gatherings.
• Low-Calorie Option: At just 280 calories per muffin, you can enjoy these treats without the guilt.
• Warm & Cozy: The aroma while baking will fill your kitchen with the delightful scent of fall.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making these muffins, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tin
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pastry blender (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: Ensures uniform baking and shape for each muffin.
• Mixing bowls: Allows for easy mixing of wet and dry ingredients without spills.
• Whisk: Ideal for blending ingredients smoothly, especially eggs and liquids.
• Spatula: Helps gently fold ingredients together without overmixing.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground ginger
– ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– ½ cup packed light brown sugar
– ½ cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Streusel Topping:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

How to Make Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: 280-Calorie Delight

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it generously to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients until well combined:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking soda
3. Baking powder
4. Ground cinnamon
5. Ground ginger
6. Ground nutmeg
7. Ground cloves
8. Salt

Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, combine:
1. Canned pumpkin puree
2. Granulated sugar
3. Brown sugar
4. Vegetable oil
5. Large eggs
6. Vanilla extract

Whisk these ingredients together until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients bowl. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined; it’s okay if there are some lumps—do not overmix!

Step 5: Make the Streusel Topping

In a small bowl, mix together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Brown sugar
3. Granulated sugar
4. Ground cinnamon

Add in the cold butter pieces and use your fingers or a pastry blender to create coarse crumbs.

Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups

Divide the muffin batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups using a spoon or ice cream scoop.

Step 7: Add Streusel

Generously sprinkle the streusel topping over each muffin to create that delicious crunch on top.

Step 8: Bake Muffins

Bake in your preheated oven for about 18–22 minutes or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool Muffins

Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins at any time of day!

How to Serve Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: 280-Calorie Delight

These Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a cozy breakfast or a delightful snack, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pair these muffins with a steaming cup of coffee for a comforting morning treat.
• Tea: Enjoy with your favorite herbal or chai tea for a soothing afternoon break.
• Hot Chocolate: Complement the sweet flavors with rich hot chocolate on chilly days.

As a Dessert

• Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an indulgent dessert option.
• Ice Cream: Serve warm muffins with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.
• Fruit Compote: Top with homemade fruit compote for added sweetness and freshness.

For Breakfast

• Greek Yogurt: Pair with a side of Greek yogurt for added protein and creaminess.
• Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter on warm muffins for extra flavor and nutrition.

How to Perfect Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: 280-Calorie Delight

To ensure your muffins turn out perfectly every time, consider these simple tips that can elevate your baking game.

• Bold Measuring: Use proper measuring techniques to ensure accurate ingredient amounts. This will help achieve the right texture and flavor.
• Bold Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs and butter to reach room temperature before mixing. This ensures they blend smoothly into the batter.
• Bold Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to maintain the muffins’ light and fluffy texture; lumps are okay!
• Bold Cool Before Serving: Let muffins cool in the tin briefly before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set properly.
• Bold Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: 280-Calorie Delight

These muffins pair wonderfully with various side dishes that complement their spiced flavors. Consider these options next time you serve them.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the muffins.
2. Cottage Cheese: This creamy side provides protein and pairs well with the spices in the muffins.
3. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal can round out your breakfast while keeping it wholesome.
4. Granola Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and fruit for a delightful alternative breakfast option alongside your muffins.
5. Savory Quiche: A slice of quiche offers savory contrast while still being easy to enjoy during brunch.
6. Chia Seed Pudding: This nutritious pudding can be made ahead and served chilled, adding variety to your meal.
7. Smoothie Bowl: Blend up your favorite fruits into a smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds for added crunch.
8. Sliced Avocado Toast: The creaminess of avocado on toast makes for an excellent sidekick to these spiced treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and it’s easy to make mistakes when preparing these Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense muffins. Stir until just combined; a few lumps are okay.
• Skipping the Streusel Topping: The streusel adds texture and flavor. Don’t skip it! Prepare it while your muffin batter rests.
• Using Pumpkin Pie Filling: Make sure you use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Correctly: Accurate measurements are key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons for best results.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven properly to ensure even baking. An oven thermometer can help verify the temperature.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the muffins in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: 280-Calorie Delight

• Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins: 280-Calorie Delight

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat muffins for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individually on high for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, covering with a lid, for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins that might help you in the kitchen.

How many calories are in Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins?

Each muffin contains approximately 280 calories. They make a delicious yet guilt-free treat!

Can I customize the spices in these muffins?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spice levels or add nuts and dried fruits for extra flavor and texture.

Are these muffins suitable for breakfast?

Yes! These muffins are perfect as a quick breakfast option or snack throughout the day.

What can I substitute for vegetable oil?

You can use melted coconut oil or applesauce as a healthier alternative if desired.

How do I know when my muffins are done baking?

Insert a wooden skewer into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean, they are ready!

Final Thoughts

These Amazing Spiced Pumpkin Streusel Muffins are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be enjoyed at breakfast, as a snack, or even as dessert. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a fall favorite!