Are you craving the cozy flavors of fall but short on time? These Pumpkin Spice Cake Mix Muffins are your answer! This incredibly easy recipe uses a boxed cake mix as a base, transforming it into a batch of delicious, moist muffins perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. It’s a fantastic option for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros looking for a quick and delicious homemade treat. This recipe is a perfect example of how easy and quick healthy meals can be.
Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) pumpkin spice cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (optional, for extra pumpkin flavor!)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Instructions:
-
Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well. This simple step ensures your muffins release easily and prevents sticking.
-
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the water, oil, and eggs until well combined. This ensures even distribution of the wet ingredients throughout the batter.
-
Add Dry Ingredients: Add the cake mix and optional pumpkin pie spice to the wet ingredients. Gently fold everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins.
-
Incorporate Pumpkin & Extras: Stir in the pumpkin puree, pecans (if using), and chocolate chips (if using). The pumpkin puree adds moisture and intensifies the pumpkin flavor.
-
Fill Muffin Cups: Fill each muffin cup about 2/3 full. This allows the muffins to rise properly without overflowing.
-
Bake: Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them.
-
Cool & Enjoy: Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your warm, delicious pumpkin spice muffins!
Tips for the Best Pumpkin Muffins:
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to tough muffins. Mix until just combined.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and oil can create a smoother batter.
- Fresh Pumpkin Puree: Using fresh pumpkin puree will result in a more intense pumpkin flavor. Avoid canned pumpkin pie filling.
- Creative Toppings: Get creative with toppings! A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or a dollop of cream cheese frosting would be delicious additions.
Variations:
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Mix 4 ounces of softened cream cheese with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and swirl it into the batter before baking.
- Spiced Streusel Topping: Make a streusel topping by combining 1/4 cup flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons chopped pecans, and 2 tablespoons melted butter. Sprinkle over the muffins before baking.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute a gluten-free pumpkin spice cake mix for a delicious gluten-free version.
Nutritional Information (per muffin, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Fat: 10-15g Sugar: 25-30g Protein: 3-4g
These Pumpkin Spice Cake Mix Muffins are the perfect fall treat – easy to make, incredibly delicious, and guaranteed to please everyone! They're a wonderful addition to any fall gathering or a delightful way to enjoy a cozy afternoon at home. Enjoy!