Pumpkin Muffins with Crumb Topping and Cinnamon Glaze Recipe

There’s something incredibly cozy about warm, spiced pumpkin muffins fresh from the oven—and this Pumpkin Muffins with Crumb Topping and Cinnamon Glaze Recipe hits all those comforting notes perfectly. I love making these in the fall when pumpkin flavors are everywhere, but honestly, they’re delightful any time you crave a little seasonal sweetness with a tender crumb and a sweet, spicy glaze. The crumb topping adds that extra crunch that makes every bite feel special.

This recipe is straightforward and so rewarding. You’ll appreciate how the pumpkin puree brings moisture and richness, while the crumb topping provides just enough texture contrast. And the cinnamon glaze? It’s that final touch that turns these muffins from everyday to truly irresistible. Trust me, once you try this Pumpkin Muffins with Crumb Topping and Cinnamon Glaze Recipe, it’ll be your new go-to for breakfasts, snacks, or even dessert.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

The ingredients in this Pumpkin Muffins with Crumb Topping and Cinnamon Glaze Recipe are a perfect balance of pantry staples and pumpkin season must-haves that work harmoniously for easy success. You don’t need to hunt for anything exotic, just grab quality basics and good pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling!) for the best results.

• Spice Cake Mix: A shortcut to perfectly spiced muffins without mixing multiple spices yourself—makes the base effortless.
• Pumpkin Puree: Adds moisture, flavor, and that quintessential pumpkin texture—make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pie filling.
• Sour Cream: Keeps the muffins tender and moist, balancing the density pumpkin can sometimes add.
• Vegetable Oil: Adds extra moisture and keeps texture soft without weighing down the muffins.
• Eggs: Provide structure and stability so the muffins rise just right.
• Vanilla Extract: Heightens all the flavors and adds a warm aromatic note.
• Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar: Both sugars create the sweet crumb topping with a lovely depth from brown sugar’s molasses.
• Flour: Gives structure to the crumb topping to keep it from melting into the muffins.
• Pumpkin Pie Spice: Adds a warm blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that complement the pumpkin.
• Butter (melted): Binds the topping mix and provides rich flavor and crispness.
• Powdered Sugar, Ground Cinnamon & Milk: The simple glaze ingredients that come together to create the irresistible finish on top.

Make It Your Way

This Pumpkin Muffins with Crumb Topping and Cinnamon Glaze Recipe is a blank canvas you can easily adapt based on your mood or what’s in the pantry. I often sprinkle chopped pecans in the crumb topping for extra crunch or swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt when I want a slight tang. Feel free to experiment with mix-ins or different spices to make the recipe truly yours.

• Nut Addition: Adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumb topping amps up texture and richness from my personal experience.
• Spice Swaps: Try adding a pinch of ginger or swapping pumpkin pie spice for chai spice for a twist.
• Dairy Swaps: Greek yogurt works well instead of sour cream to add protein and slight tang.
• Gluten-Free Version: Using a gluten-free spice cake mix and gluten-free flour for topping lets you enjoy these muffins without gluten.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Pumpkin Muffins with Crumb Topping and Cinnamon Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Muffin Batter

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F and get your muffin pan ready—spray with non-stick baking spray or line with paper muffin cups (I always spray those cups lightly, too, to help muffins release easily). In a large bowl, pour in the spice cake mix, then add the whole can of pumpkin puree, sour cream, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until smooth. You can use an electric mixer or just a sturdy wooden spoon — I find the spoon helps me keep a good feel for the batter consistency without overmixing.

Step 2: Making That Irresistible Crumb Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, flour, and pumpkin pie spice. Pour in the melted butter and gently mix with a fork or your fingers until you get coarse crumbs. This crumb topping is my favorite part—don’t skip it! Once your muffin batter is spooned into the pan, sprinkle about 1 to 2 tablespoons of this crumb topping on each muffin. It’s that little bit of crunch that makes this Pumpkin Muffins with Crumb Topping and Cinnamon Glaze Recipe so memorable.

Step 3: Baking and Checking for Doneness

Bake the muffins for 20-25 minutes. Around 20 minutes, start checking with a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Don’t overbake or they’ll dry out, and don’t underbake or the center will be gooey. The crumb topping should look golden brown and slightly crisp when done.

Step 4: Whisking Up the Cinnamon Glaze

While the muffins cool just a bit, whisk together powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, and milk until smooth and lump-free. When the muffins are warm but not hot, drizzle this glaze over the tops. It adds a touch of sweetness and makes these Pumpkin Muffins with Crumb Topping and Cinnamon Glaze Recipe feel like a true treat. Pro tip: don’t glaze the muffins right out of the oven or the glaze will melt off—it tastes better once the muffins have cooled for about 10 minutes.

How to Serve Pumpkin Muffins with Crumb Topping and Cinnamon Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

I like to add a light dusting of additional powdered sugar over the cinnamon glaze for a pretty snowy effect, especially if serving for guests. For a little fresh flair, chopped toasted pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon powder bring visual interest and extra flavor. These small touches make the serving experience feel thoughtfully seasonal.

Side Dishes

These pumpkin muffins pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea for breakfast or brunch. For a fuller spread, I love serving them alongside creamy yogurt parfaits or fresh fruit salad — it balances the sweetness and adds freshness to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For holidays or gatherings, I arrange these muffins on a large wooden board with mini pumpkins, autumn leaves, and small jars of extra glaze or honey nearby for guests to customize. Wrapping them individually in parchment paper tied with rustic twine also makes a charming homemade gift, perfect for sharing the cozy vibes with friends and neighbors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Pumpkin Muffins with Crumb Topping and Cinnamon Glaze Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. The crumb topping stays surprisingly crisp, and the muffins remain moist—just be sure to let them cool completely before storing to avoid sogginess.

Freezing

If I make a big batch, I freeze muffins without glaze wrapped individually in plastic wrap then placed in a freezer bag. When you’re ready, just thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the microwave. I prefer freezing before glazing—then you can drizzle fresh glaze after reheating for best taste and texture.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop individual muffins in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, which revives their moistness without making the crumb topping soggy. Then I drizzle or refresh the cinnamon glaze to bring back that lovely sweet finish. If you want to crisp the crumb topping, a quick 3-5 minute warm-up in a 350°F oven works great.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Pumpkin Muffins with Crumb Topping and Cinnamon Glaze Recipe has become one of my fall favorites because it’s both easy and absolutely delicious. I love how the crumb topping adds that perfect sweet crunch and how the glaze ties everything together with a warm cinnamon note. Whether you’re making these for family breakfasts, a cozy afternoon snack, or sharing at a gathering, I know you’ll enjoy the simple pleasures these muffins bring. So go ahead, give them a try—I’m pretty sure they’ll become a staple in your kitchen, too!

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