Pumpkin Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Muffins Recipe

If you’re craving a fall-inspired treat that feels like a warm hug in every bite, this Pumpkin Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Muffins Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine moist, fluffy pumpkin muffins bursting with gooey chocolate chips and a luscious cream cheese center, all topped with a crunchy cinnamon streusel. It’s the perfect cozy snack or breakfast pick-me-up that brings together the best flavors of pumpkin and indulgent sweetness in an unforgettable way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun here. Each component plays a pivotal role, whether adding moisture, that rich pumpkin flavor, or the delightful texture contrasts that make this recipe shine.

• 4 large eggs: Bind all the ingredients together while providing structure and fluffiness.
• 1 can pumpkin puree (15 oz/425 g): Use 100% pure pumpkin for that natural, earthy pumpkin taste and vibrant color.
• 1 cup plain full-fat Greek yogurt (8 oz/227 g): Adds tanginess and keeps the muffins moist and tender.
• ¼ cup avocado oil (2 fl oz/60 ml): A mild, heart-healthy oil that ensures a soft crumb without weighing down the muffins.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste: Intensifies the sweet aroma and depth of flavor; vanilla extract works too!
• 2⅓ cups all-purpose flour (11.5 oz/325 g): The foundation that gives muffins their structure; unbleached is preferred for better texture.
• 1¾ cups light brown sugar (14 oz/395 g): Brings caramel notes and moisture for rich sweetness.
• 2 teaspoons baking soda: The leavening agent that helps muffins rise beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
• Pumpkin Spice Mix: A warm, fragrant blend that creates that unmistakable autumn vibe. Use as desired.
• 2 cups bittersweet chocolate baking chips (12 oz/340 g): Melts into pockets of luscious chocolate goodness in every bite.
• 16 oz softened full-fat cream cheese: For the decadent, creamy swirl that makes these muffins truly special.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (50 g): Sweetens the cream cheese filling just right.
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (8 g): Stabilizes the cream cheese filling so it holds together perfectly.
• 1 large egg (for cream cheese filling): Adds richness and helps bind the filling.
• 1 tablespoon milk (15 ml): Softens the cream cheese mixture for silky smoothness.
• 1¼ cups all-purpose flour (about 6 oz/180 g): Used in the buttery streusel topping to add a satisfying crunch.
• ½ cup brown sugar (4 oz/113 g): Sweet and caramelized, perfect for topping.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings warm spice to the streusel for extra flavor layers.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (4 oz/113 g): Richness that crisps up the streusel beautifully.
• 1 large egg white: Helps bind the streusel together and crisp it up during baking.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances the flavors in the streusel topping.

How to Make Pumpkin Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Muffins Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to a robust 425°F (218°C). A hot oven kick-starts the perfect rise in these muffins. Prepare your 24-cup muffin tin by either greasing well or lining with paper liners to keep every muffin intact and easy to remove later.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, the entire can of pumpkin puree, full-fat Greek yogurt, avocado oil, and that aromatic vanilla bean paste. Aim for a smooth, cohesive mixture — this will be the moist base that carries the rich pumpkin flavor throughout your muffins.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking soda, salt, and your chosen amount of pumpkin spice mix. Mixing these dry ingredients well ensures that you get even pockets of spice and sweetness in every bite.

Step 4: Gently Fold Dry into Wet

Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Be gentle — overmixing can make muffins tough, so it’s okay if a few lumps remain. This careful folding keeps the texture wonderfully light and tender.

Step 5: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

Use a hand or stand mixer to blend softened cream cheese, granulated sugar, flour, an egg, and milk until completely smooth and lump-free. This luscious filling is the secret superstar that adds a delightful burst of creamy richness inside each muffin.

Step 6: Make the Streusel Topping

In another bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Then stir in melted butter and egg white until you have a crumbly mixture. This streusel topping adds the perfect touch of crunch and warm spice to your muffins.

Step 7: Assemble the Muffin Cups

Fill each muffin cup about one-third full with pumpkin batter. Add a generous dollop of the cream cheese mixture in the center, then top with more pumpkin batter to fully encase the filling. Finally, sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over all the muffins to create a beautiful crust.

Step 8: Bake with Temperature Shift

Place the muffin tray in the preheated oven and bake at 425°F (218°C) for about 6-7 minutes to get that initial rise. Then lower the heat to 350°F (177°C) and bake for the remaining time, totaling approximately 20 minutes. This two-step baking helps form a tender, fluffy crumb and a perfectly crisp top.

Step 9: Check for Doneness

Test your muffins with a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. If too moist, pop them back in for an extra 5 minutes at 350°F (177°C) to finish baking.

Step 10: Cool Before Enjoying

Allow muffins to rest in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Letting them cool ensures they set nicely and the flavors meld harmoniously, giving you that perfect, irresistible bite.

How to Serve Pumpkin Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Muffins Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top just before serving for a pretty finish. A light drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream pairs beautifully and adds extra richness without overpowering the pumpkin-spice magic.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a steaming cup of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee—both bring out the warm spices and creamy chocolate notes in the muffins. For a more filling breakfast, a scoop of Greek yogurt with honey and toasted nuts complements these muffins perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the muffins in half and lightly toasting them for a delightful warm treat. You can also use them as a base for a pumpkin-themed parfait or serve them with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream during cooler evenings. These muffins are as versatile as they are delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their moistness. For best taste, enjoy them within this window as their creamy filling is freshest then.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Warm muffins in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or pop them in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 5-7 minutes. Reheating revives their soft texture and melts the chocolate chips slightly, echoing that fresh-from-the-oven experience.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?

It’s best to stick with pure pumpkin puree, as pumpkin pie filling contains added sugar and spices which can alter the flavor and texture of the muffins.

What type of chocolate chips work best in this recipe?

Bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate chips are ideal because their slightly bitter edge balances the sweetness of the muffin and cream cheese filling beautifully.

Can I substitute the avocado oil with another oil?

Yes! Light olive oil or melted coconut oil can also work well, just keep in mind they may slightly change the flavor profile.

How do I know when the muffins are fully baked?

Use a toothpick inserted into the muffin center; it should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs. Avoid wet batter to ensure doneness without dryness.

Is it necessary to reduce the oven temperature during baking?

The initial high heat jumpstarts muffin rise for a tender crumb, then lowering the temperature allows them to bake through without burning the tops. Sticking to this step gives the best texture.

Final Thoughts

Embracing the season with the Pumpkin Cream Cheese Chocolate Chip Muffins Recipe is a little moment of magic you can bake at home. These muffins deliver a cozy blend of flavors and textures that feel just right for any occasion. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll quickly become a beloved staple in your baking rotation. So grab your mixing bowls and get ready for warm, delicious smiles all around!

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