If you're a fan of Starbucks' Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins, you're in for a treat. This recipe will guide you through creating a delicious homemade version of these fall-favorite muffins right in your own kitchen. With the perfect blend of spiced pumpkin flavor and creamy, sweet cream cheese filling, these muffins are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you're making them for a cozy breakfast, an afternoon snack, or to impress guests, this recipe will help you achieve that classic Starbucks taste at home. So, grab your apron, and let's get baking!

What are Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins?
Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins are a seasonal bakery item offered by Starbucks, typically during the fall months. These muffins are beloved for their moist pumpkin base, which is delicately spiced with classic autumn flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, all encapsulated in the pumpkin pie spice. The real star of these muffins, however, is the creamy, slightly tangy cream cheese filling that perfectly complements the warm, spiced pumpkin batter. These muffins are often topped with crunchy, sweet streusel or pepitas (pumpkin seeds), adding an extra layer of texture and flavor. The combination of the spiced pumpkin muffin and the smooth cream cheese filling creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making these muffins a favorite treat for many.
Ingredients List for Starbucks Pumpkin Muffins
To recreate the Starbucks Pumpkin Muffins at home, you'll need the following ingredients:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: This provides structure to the muffins.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the muffins rise.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Another leavening agent that reacts with the acid in the pumpkin puree to create a fluffy texture.
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice: A blend of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, essential for that signature fall flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups pumpkin puree: The star ingredient that gives the muffins their rich, moist texture and deep pumpkin flavor.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binder and adds richness to the batter.
- ¼ cup melted butter: Adds moisture and richness to the muffins.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile with its sweet, aromatic notes.
Ingredients List for Cream Cheese Filling
The cream cheese filling is what sets these muffins apart, offering a rich and creamy contrast to the spiced pumpkin muffin. For the filling, you'll need:
- 4 oz cream cheese (at room temperature): The base of the filling, providing a smooth and tangy creaminess.
- 2 tablespoon granulated sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling.
- 1 teaspoon all-purpose flour: Helps stabilize the filling so it stays creamy without becoming too runny during baking.
- 1 teaspoon milk: Thins out the filling slightly, making it easier to pipe into the muffins.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the filling.
Substitutions and Variations
Whether you're out of certain ingredients or looking to customize your muffins, there are several substitutions and variations you can try:
- Flour: If you prefer a healthier option, you can replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture of the muffins.
- Sugar: For a less refined option, you can use coconut sugar or brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. Brown sugar will add a bit of a molasses flavor, which pairs well with the pumpkin.
- Butter: If you're looking for a dairy-free version, substitute the melted butter with an equal amount of coconut oil or a plant-based margarine.
- Pumpkin Puree: If you can’t find pumpkin puree, you can substitute it with butternut squash puree or sweet potato puree. Both will give a similar texture and flavor profile.
- Cream Cheese Filling: For a dairy-free filling, you can use a vegan cream cheese. You can also add a little extra flavor to the filling by mixing in a tablespoon of maple syrup or a pinch of cinnamon.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making these Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to bake them to perfection:

- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until well combined.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins dense.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, beat together the cream cheese, granulated sugar, flour, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Fill the Muffin Tins: Spoon the pumpkin batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full. Then, using a small spoon or piping bag, place a dollop of cream cheese filling into the center of each muffin.
- Bake the Muffins: Bake the muffins in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the muffin (away from the cream cheese center) comes out clean.
- Cool the Muffins: Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Cook Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
The first step is to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is hot enough to start the baking process immediately when you place the muffins inside, helping them rise properly.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt. Use a whisk to ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed. This helps in achieving a consistent texture in the muffins.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. The pumpkin puree should be well-incorporated, creating a uniform batter.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients, folding them together with a spatula. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can lead to dense muffins.
Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
For the cream cheese filling, beat together the softened cream cheese, sugar, flour, milk, and vanilla extract in a small bowl. Ensure the filling is smooth and creamy, making it easy to pipe or spoon into the muffins.
Step 6: Assemble the Muffins
Spoon the pumpkin batter into the muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full. Then, place a small dollop of the cream cheese filling in the center of each muffin. If you want the filling to stay in the center, gently press it into the batter.
Step 7: Bake
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. The muffins are done when they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the side of the muffin (avoiding the cream cheese center) comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making these delicious muffins, there are a few common mistakes that could impact your results. Here's how to avoid them:
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing the batter too much can lead to tough, dense muffins. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Filling the Muffin Tins Too Full: Overfilling can cause the muffins to overflow and not bake evenly. Fill each cup about two-thirds full for the best results.
- Not Softening the Cream Cheese: Using cold cream cheese can result in a lumpy filling. Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth and creamy texture.
- Skipping the Flour in the Filling: The small amount of flour in the filling helps it hold its shape during baking. Don’t skip this ingredient.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Serving and presentation are key when it comes to enjoying these muffins. Here are some tips to make your muffins look as good as they taste:
- Serve Warm: These muffins are best served slightly warm, allowing the cream cheese center to be soft and creamy. You can reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds if they have cooled down.
- Top with Pepitas: For a finishing touch that mirrors the Starbucks version, sprinkle a few pepitas (pumpkin seeds) on top of each muffin before baking. They add a nice crunch and a visually appealing contrast to the soft muffin.
- Add a Dusting of Powdered Sugar: Once the muffins have cooled, you can dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant look.
- Use Festive Liners: During the fall season, consider using themed muffin liners to add a festive touch to your presentation.
How to Serve Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins
These muffins are versatile and can be served in various settings:
- Breakfast: Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning treat.
- Brunch: Serve them alongside a spread of other breakfast items like eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit for a delightful brunch.
- Snack: Enjoy them as an afternoon pick-me-up with a glass of milk or a warm beverage.
- Dessert: These muffins also make a great dessert, especially when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Presentation Ideas for Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins
Presentation can elevate your muffins from a simple snack to an impressive treat. Here are a few ideas:
- Festive Display: Arrange the muffins on a cake stand with autumn-themed decorations like mini pumpkins and fall leaves.
- Gift-Worthy Packaging: If you’re giving these muffins as a gift, place them in a decorative box or tin, and tie it with a seasonal ribbon.
- Elegant Plating: For a more refined presentation, plate the muffins with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a side of whipped cream.
Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe Tips
To ensure your muffins turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Pumpkin Puree: For the best flavor, use canned pumpkin puree labeled "100% pumpkin" rather than pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your egg, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature to ensure even mixing and a smooth batter.
- Don’t Skip the Cooling: Let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and makes them easier to remove from the liners.
- Store Properly: These muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use homemade pumpkin puree?
Yes, homemade pumpkin puree can be used in place of canned puree. Just make sure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture of the muffins.
2. Can I freeze these muffins?
Absolutely! These muffins freeze well. Simply wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave.
3. Can I make mini muffins instead of regular-sized ones?
Yes, you can make mini muffins by using a mini muffin tin. Adjust the baking time to about 10-12 minutes, but keep an eye on them as baking times can vary.
4. Can I omit the cream cheese filling?
Yes, if you prefer plain pumpkin muffins, you can omit the cream cheese filling. The muffins will still be delicious on their own or with a different filling of your choice.
5. What can I use instead of pumpkin pie spice?
If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, you can make your own blend using cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. Use about ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon ginger, and a pinch of cloves.
Conclusion
Making Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins at home is easier than you might think, and the results are absolutely delicious. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can enjoy these fall-inspired treats whenever the craving strikes. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves the cozy flavors of pumpkin and cream cheese. So, why not treat yourself to a homemade version of this Starbucks favorite? Happy baking!
PrintStarbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe
Bake your own Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins with this simple recipe. The moist pumpkin muffins, spiced with pumpkin pie spice, pair perfectly with the creamy, sweet cream cheese filling. Ideal for fall breakfasts or snacks, these muffins are a delicious way to enjoy your favorite Starbucks treat at home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins 1x
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Pumpkin Muffins:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 ½ cups pumpkin puree
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, stirring just until mixed.
- In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar, flour, milk, and vanilla extract until creamy.
- Fill each muffin cup halfway with batter, add a spoonful of cream cheese filling, and top with more batter.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the muffin comes out clean.
- Let the muffins cool before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- You can adjust the amount of pumpkin pie spice to suit your taste.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
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