Are you craving a warm, comforting treat that's perfect for a chilly autumn evening? Look no further! This recipe for spice cake and pumpkin muffins combines the best of both worlds – the moist texture of a spice cake with the individual convenience of muffins. These delightful muffins are incredibly easy to make, perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros looking for a quick and delicious homemade dessert. Get ready to enjoy a taste of fall with every bite!
Ingredients:
For the muffins:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the spice cake topping (optional):
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
Getting Started:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease and flour the tin. This step ensures your muffins bake evenly and release easily.
Making the Muffin Batter:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. Stir in the nuts (if using).
Preparing the Spice Cake Topping (Optional):
In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Baking the Muffins:
Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full. Sprinkle the spice cake topping evenly over the muffins, if desired. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooling and Serving:
Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy these warm, delicious muffins with a cup of coffee or tea. They are equally delightful enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.
- Add some chocolate: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips into the batter for a delicious twist.
- Make it healthier: Substitute applesauce or mashed banana for half of the oil.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
- Different nuts: Experiment with other nuts like almonds or macadamia nuts.
- Cream cheese frosting: Elevate your muffins with a simple cream cheese frosting for an extra special treat.
Nutritional Information (per muffin, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 3g
This recipe provides a fantastic base for creating your own unique variations. Enjoy the process of baking these delightful muffins, and the delicious reward of a perfectly baked, flavorful treat! These easy recipes make for perfect healthy meals or quick dinner ideas. Enjoy the homemade cooking experience and share these best recipes with your friends and family.