Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins
If you’re craving a cozy fall treat that makes your kitchen smell like a warm autumn morning, these Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins are exactly what you need. Each bite bursts with the comforting flavors of pumpkin spice and a tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth. Topped with a glistening cinnamon-sugar coating, they feel like a donut and a muffin had the perfect autumn baby.
These muffins are incredibly easy to make, yet the result is bakery-worthy. You don’t need any fancy equipment or complicated steps. Just a few pantry staples and a whisk bring together the perfect blend of fall flavors. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a sweet treat with coffee, they deliver joy in every fluffy bite.
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins Recipe
These muffins strike the perfect balance between sweet and spiced. The cinnamon sugar topping adds a delightful crunch to the soft, moist center. They’re not only simple to prepare but also make your house smell like a dream while baking. Best of all, they stay moist for days, making them ideal for meal prep or gifting.
What Kind of Pumpkin Should I Use?
Canned pumpkin puree is the most convenient and consistent option for this recipe. Just be sure you’re using 100% pure pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, which has added sugars and spices. If you prefer to use fresh pumpkin puree, make sure it’s thick and well-drained for the best muffin texture.
Ingredients for the Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins
These muffins use basic baking staples, but each one plays an essential role in flavor and texture.
All-purpose flour gives structure to the muffins and creates a soft, tender crumb.
Baking powder provides the necessary rise and keeps the muffins fluffy and light.
Pumpkin pie spice brings in all the cozy seasonal flavor.
Salt balances the sweetness and enhances the spices.
Pumpkin puree adds moisture and that classic autumn flavor.
Granulated sugar sweetens the muffins just enough without being overpowering.
Brown sugar gives a slight molasses depth and keeps the muffins moist.
Eggs bind the ingredients and contribute to structure.
Vegetable oil adds richness and helps with a moist texture.
Milk loosens the batter and adds tenderness.
Vanilla extract enhances the warmth of the pumpkin and spices.
Cinnamon and sugar (for topping) bring that signature sweet-spiced crust.

How To Make the Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with non-stick spray.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully blended.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin
Scoop the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the muffins cool for a few minutes in the tin, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 7: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
While the muffins are still warm, brush the tops with melted butter and dip or sprinkle them generously with cinnamon sugar.
How to Serve and Store Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins
These muffins are best served slightly warm, when the cinnamon sugar topping is still crisp. They’re a perfect companion to your morning coffee or a chilly afternoon tea. You can also pack them in lunchboxes or serve them at brunch gatherings.
This recipe makes about 12 standard muffins, which is ideal for small get-togethers or meal prepping snacks for the week.
Store the cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy from frozen, just reheat gently in the microwave.
What to Serve With Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins?
Coffee with Pumpkin Spice Creamer
The flavors complement perfectly and make the experience even cozier.
Greek Yogurt with Honey
A protein-packed side that balances the sweetness of the muffins.
Fresh Fruit Salad
Adds a refreshing contrast with natural sweetness.
Scrambled Eggs or Omelette
For a heartier breakfast, pair the muffins with savory eggs.
Maple Glazed Bacon
The salty-sweet crunch plays beautifully against the softness of the muffin.
Herbal Chai Tea
The spices in chai enhance the warm spice notes in the muffins.
Apple Butter
Slather a bit on the muffin for an extra autumn twist.
Warmed Almond Milk with Cinnamon
A dairy-free drink that keeps the cozy vibes going.
Want More Muffin Ideas with a Twist?
If you love these cinnamon sugar pumpkin muffins, you’ll definitely want to try these flavorful baked treats:
- Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls for fruity and creamy indulgence.
- Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls with a nutty surprise.
- Easy Banana Cream Pie Recipe if you’re craving silky and sweet.
- Canned Biscuit Sugar Donuts for a shortcut to donut bliss.
- Peanut Butter Cornflake Cookies when you’re in the mood for crunchy and chewy.
Save This Recipe For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest fall baking board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a different spice blend? Swap in butternut squash? Or maybe add a cream cheese swirl?
I love seeing how these recipes inspire your own kitchen magic. And don’t hesitate to ask questions — we’re baking buddies here.
Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and cozy bakes on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to favorites: Luna Meals on Pinterest
Conclusion
Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins bring all the comfort of fall into one soft, spiced, sweet package. They’re easy to whip up, hard to resist, and even better the next day. Whether you’re baking a batch for a cozy weekend breakfast or sharing with friends, these muffins are sure to warm hearts and satisfy cravings.

Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins are soft, spiced, and topped with a sweet cinnamon-sugar crust. Made with real pumpkin and warm fall spices, this easy muffin recipe is perfect for cozy mornings and holiday baking.
Ingredients
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
1 ½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup pumpkin puree
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup vegetable oil
¼ cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
¼ cup granulated sugar (for topping)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a muffin tin with liners or non-stick spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, oil, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir just until combined; do not overmix.
5. Fill muffin cups about ¾ full with the batter.
6. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let the muffins cool slightly, then brush the tops with melted butter.
8. Mix cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl and dip or sprinkle onto the warm muffin tops.
Notes
These muffins are best enjoyed warm but stay moist for days.
Use 100% pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
Don’t overmix the batter—gentle stirring keeps them tender.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Muffins
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 135mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg


