Pumpkin Cheesecake Muffins

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Fall baking doesn’t get more comforting than these Pumpkin Cheesecake Muffins. With a warm spiced pumpkin batter swirled with sweet, tangy cream cheese and topped with a cinnamon-sugar crunch, they’re the perfect cozy treat to kick off sweater weather. Each bite delivers that classic pumpkin spice essence, balanced beautifully by a creamy cheesecake core that melts in your mouth.

Whether you’re baking for a brunch gathering, holiday party, or just treating yourself to a fall-flavored breakfast idea, these muffins are easy to whip up and even easier to love. They also make a delightful addition to lunchboxes or coffee breaks with friends.

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What Kind of Cream Cheese Should I Use?

Full-fat brick-style cream cheese is the best choice for this recipe. It delivers the richness and structure needed for the cheesecake swirl. Avoid whipped or tub varieties as they can be too soft and lead to a runny center that doesn’t bake as evenly.

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Ingredients for the Pumpkin Cheesecake Muffins

• Pumpkin Puree: Brings moisture and classic autumn flavor. Make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pie filling.
• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation for a soft but sturdy muffin.
• Brown Sugar & Granulated Sugar: A blend for depth and caramel-like sweetness.
• Vegetable Oil: Keeps the muffins moist without overpowering flavors.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and give the muffins structure.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances both the pumpkin and cream cheese elements.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: The iconic mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
• Baking Soda & Salt: Leavening and flavor balance.
• Cream Cheese: The tangy, luscious swirl that sets these muffins apart.
• Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling without grit.

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How To Make the Pumpkin Cheesecake Muffins

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with cooking spray.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Pumpkin Batter

In a large bowl, whisk pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract. In another bowl, sift together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Muffins

Spoon a layer of pumpkin batter into each muffin cup, filling about 1/3 of the way. Add a dollop of cream cheese filling in the center, then top with more pumpkin batter until about 3/4 full. Use a toothpick to gently swirl the layers.

Step 5: Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, mix a little granulated sugar with cinnamon and sprinkle over the top of each muffin for a crunchy finish.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the tops spring back lightly when touched. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

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How to Serve and Store Pumpkin Cheesecake Muffins

Serve warm with a steaming cup of coffee or chai tea. These muffins also taste fantastic chilled, especially if you enjoy a firmer cheesecake bite. For storing, keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. They also freeze beautifully – just wrap individually and store for up to 2 months.

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What to Serve With Pumpkin Cheesecake Muffins?

Warm Apple Cider

Perfect for amplifying those fall flavors.

Maple-Glazed Bacon

Adds a sweet and savory crunch to your breakfast.

Yogurt Parfait with Granola

A light, creamy contrast with a bit of crunch.

Chai-Spiced Latte

The perfect spiced sip to match the muffin’s cozy profile.

Fresh Berries

Adds a fresh and tangy pop.

Savory Breakfast Casserole

For a more filling brunch spread.

Toasted Nuts

Walnuts or pecans give texture and earthy flavor alongside.

Vanilla Ice Cream

For dessert mode—turns the muffin into a warm fall sundae.

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Want More Muffin Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved these Pumpkin Cheesecake Muffins, you might fall for these creative takes too:

• Nutella French Toast Casserole for a gooey breakfast bake.
• Cinnamon Roll French Toast Bites if you enjoy bite-sized cinnamon indulgence.
• Two Ingredient Lemon Bars for something bright and tangy.
• Mom’s Famous Cream Puffs when you crave something airy and rich.
• Easy Cheesecake Cups for another creamy grab-and-go treat.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a caramel swirl or a chocolate chip twist? Did you try them chilled or straight from the oven?

I love hearing how you make these your own. Questions? Tips? Drop them below—let’s make fall baking better together.

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