Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe

The Dreamy Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe

Cozy autumn mornings spark cravings for starbucks pumpkin cream cheese muffins that smell like warm nostalgia.

Bakery-style treats burst with seasonal comfort right from your kitchen.

Sweet spices dance through tender crumb, promising indulgent bites.

Cream cheese swirls create dreamy pockets of rich, tangy delight.

Homemade versions crush expensive coffee shop prices while delivering maximum flavor.

Baking these muffins fills your space with irresistible warmth and cinnamon-infused memories.

Why Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Are A Seasonal Favorite

  • Savor Seasonal Comfort: Dive into the ultimate autumn treat that captures the warm, cozy essence of pumpkin spice with a luxurious cream cheese surprise.
  • Master Bakery-Quality Delight: Create professional-looking muffins that rival coffee shop offerings, impressing family and friends with minimal baking expertise.
  • Customize with Ease: Adapt the recipe by adjusting spices or adding optional toppings to suit personal taste preferences and dietary needs.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Breakfast or Snack: Perfect for weekend brunches, school lunches, office gatherings, or a delightful afternoon pick-me-up that satisfies sweet cravings.

Ingredients For Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: The main structure and base for the muffin batter.
  • Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Essential leavening agents that help the muffins rise and become fluffy.
  • Salt: Enhances and balances the overall flavor of the muffins.
Spice Blend:
  • Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves, Ginger: Classic fall spices that create a warm and aromatic pumpkin flavor profile.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Pumpkin Puree: Provides moisture and the signature pumpkin taste to the muffins.
  • Vegetable Oil: Keeps the muffins tender and moist.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure to the muffin.
  • Milk: Helps create a smooth and rich batter.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor.
Sugars:
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Provide sweetness and contribute to the muffins' texture.
Cream Cheese Filling:
  • Cream Cheese: Creates a rich and creamy center for the muffins.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle flavor to the cream cheese mixture.
Topping (Optional):
  • Granulated Sugar, Ground Cinnamon: Adds a sweet and spicy crunch to the muffin tops.

How To Bake Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank your oven to 350F and set up a muffin tin with paper liners or a quick spray of cooking oil.

Step 2: Whip the Creamy Center

Blend cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla until super smooth and silky. Set this dreamy mixture aside.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Gather these dry ingredients:
  • Flour
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda
  • Salt
  • Cinnamon
  • Nutmeg
  • Cloves
  • Ginger

Whisk everything together in a large mixing bowl until perfectly combined.

Step 4: Create the Wet Mixture

Combine these wet ingredients:
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Pumpkin puree
  • Vegetable oil
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Vanilla extract

Stir until the mixture looks smooth and well-blended.

Step 5: Merge Wet and Dry Components

Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix gently until just combined – don’t overmix!

Step 6: Build the Muffin Layers

Pour pumpkin batter into each muffin cup, filling about 1/3 full. Drop a generous spoonful of cream cheese filling in the center. Top with more pumpkin batter until cups are 2/3 full.

Step 7: Add Sparkle on Top

Mix sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle generously over each muffin.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the muffin tin into the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick – it should come out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Savor

Let muffins rest in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack. Grab your favorite warm drink and enjoy these autumn-inspired treats!

Helpful Advice For Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

  • Refrigerate leftover cream cheese filling to prevent spoilage and maintain its smooth texture for future baking.
  • Swap vegetable oil with applesauce for a healthier, lower-fat version of these delicious muffins.
  • Use room temperature ingredients like eggs and cream cheese to ensure smoother mixing and better overall texture.
  • Check muffins early to prevent over-baking; every oven differs slightly in temperature and cooking time.
  • For gluten-free option, replace all-purpose flour with a 1: 1 gluten-free baking blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Variations To Try With Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

  • Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins: Add semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter for a rich, decadent flavor that complements the pumpkin spice.
  • Nutty Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins: Fold chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter and sprinkle some on top for extra crunch and nutty depth.
  • Streusel-Topped Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins: Create a crumbly streusel topping with flour, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon to add a sweet, crunchy layer.
  • Maple Glazed Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins: Drizzle a simple maple glaze over cooled muffins for an additional layer of sweet, autumnal flavor.

Best Pairings For Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

  • Pair with Warm Spiced Chai Latte: Complement the pumpkin muffin's rich, warm spices with a creamy chai that echoes the cinnamon and nutmeg notes, creating a harmonious flavor experience.
  • Match with Maple Pecan Coffee: Brew a medium-roast coffee with subtle maple undertones that highlight the muffin's sweet pumpkin profile and add a nutty depth to each bite.
  • Serve alongside Caramel Apple Cider: The tangy, sweet cider cuts through the muffin's richness while providing a refreshing contrast to the dense, creamy texture.
  • Enhance with Vanilla Bean Steamer: A smooth, mild hot milk drink that balances the muffin's intense spices and provides a gentle, comforting accompaniment.

Storage Instructions For Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

  • Store muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
  • Wrap individual muffins tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months for maximum freshness and flavor.
  • Warm refrigerated muffins for 15-20 seconds on medium power. Check temperature and add a few more seconds if needed for a soft, warm treat.
  • Thaw frozen muffins at room temperature, then warm in a 300F oven for 10-12 minutes. Restore the muffin's original moisture and texture with this gentle method.

FAQs On Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

  • Why do I need to mix the dry and wet ingredients separately?

Mixing dry and wet ingredients separately ensures even distribution of ingredients and prevents overmixing, which can make muffins tough and dense. This method helps create a lighter, more tender texture.

  • Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Roast and puree the pumpkin until smooth, making sure to drain excess moisture to maintain the right consistency for the muffins.

  • How do I know when the cream cheese filling is properly mixed?

The cream cheese filling should be smooth and free of lumps. Beat the ingredients until they are well combined and have a creamy, uniform texture with no visible cream cheese chunks.

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Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe

Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins Recipe

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4.8 from 37 reviews

  • Total Time: 40-45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x
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Description

Starbucks pumpkin cream cheese muffins blend seasonal warmth with creamy indulgence, offering a delightful autumn treat. Rich pumpkin spice and smooth cream cheese center make these morsels irresistible for weekend brunches or cozy coffee moments.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients:

  • 2 1/2 cups (300 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) brown sugar, packed
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons (7.5 milliliters) baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 milliliters) salt
  • 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 milliliters) ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 milliliters) ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 milliliters) ground ginger

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) canned pumpkin puree
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) milk
  • 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cream cheese mixture by blending softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until silky and uniform, then refrigerate to maintain consistency.
  2. Sift together all dry ingredients including flour, leavening agents, salt, and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Whisk wet ingredients separately, combining pumpkin puree, sugars, oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla until thoroughly incorporated and smooth.
  4. Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture, stirring minimally to prevent overmixing and maintain a tender muffin texture.
  5. Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare muffin tin with liners or light grease.
  6. Layer muffin batter strategically: fill each cup 1/3 full with pumpkin mixture, create a cream cheese center by spooning filling into middle, then cover with additional pumpkin batter until cups are 2/3 full.
  7. Optional: Dust muffin tops with cinnamon-sugar blend for added sweetness and texture.
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, monitoring until a inserted toothpick emerges clean and muffins develop a golden-brown surface.
  9. Rest muffins in tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack for complete cooling, allowing structures to set properly.
  10. Serve at room temperature, pairing wonderfully with coffee or tea.

Notes

  • Cream cheese filling works best when ingredients are at room temperature, ensuring smooth and creamy texture without lumps.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent tough, dense muffins; stop stirring as soon as dry and wet ingredients are just combined.
  • For gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to maintain similar texture and consistency.
  • Reduce sugar content by using half the recommended amount or replacing with natural sweeteners like stevia for a lighter, healthier version.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 230 kcal
  • Sugar: 18 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 33 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 35 mg

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Michael Thompson

Michael Thompson

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Creating single-serving recipes tailored for individuals, small households, or meal preppers
  • Culinary arts with a focus on clean plating and natural styling for food photography
  • Working with fermented ingredients and dairy-based cooking techniques
  • Designing seasonal menus that use fresh, locally sourced produce

Education

Cascade Culinary Institute – Bend, OR

  • Program: Culinary Arts Certificate
  • Focus: Gained hands-on experience in professional kitchens, learning advanced recipe development, seasonal ingredient sourcing, and simple, beautiful food presentation.

ServSafe Food Handler Certification – Portland, OR

  • Program: Food Safety Certification
    Focus: Certified in core food safety and hygiene principles for both home and professional kitchens, with emphasis on ingredient handling, kitchen cleanliness, and safe preparation methods.

Mike’s kitchen journey began with a single goal: to make everyday meals feel like something worth celebrating.
After earning his Certificate in Culinary Arts from Cascade Culinary Institute, he spent years working with local farmers and small kitchens across Oregon, learning the beauty of seasonal, small-batch cooking.
Mike’s approach is simple, cook with what’s fresh, keep it approachable, and always leave room for a little creativity. When he’s not testing yogurt marinades or designing single-serving meals, you’ll find him hiking trails or hunting down the best berries at local markets.

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