The Pumpkin Muffin Top from Kneaders Bakery & Cafe features moist pumpkin-infused batter blended with warm cinnamon and nutmeg spices, topped with a crunchy cinnamon-sugar crust, delivering a deliciously spiced and textured autumn treat.
Equipments
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Electric mixer (optional)
- Muffin top pan (or baking sheet with muffin top molds)
- Rubber spatula
- Small bowl (for cinnamon-sugar mixture)
- Spoon
- Cooling rack
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup (225g) canned pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
Use canned pumpkin puree to ensure a smooth, moist texture throughout the batter, and avoid fresh pumpkin which may alter the consistency. Ground cinnamon and nutmeg are key spices that create the warm, autumn flavor signature to this muffin top, so do not substitute with pre-mixed pumpkin spice blends to maintain authentic taste. Precise measuring of both baking powder and baking soda is crucial for selecting the perfect rise and tender crumb. Your cinnamon-sugar crust requires a fine mix of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon sprinkled just before baking to achieve the muffin top's signature crunch. This Pumpkin Muffin Top from Kneaders Bakery & Cafe copycat recipe balances spices and texture perfectly, offering a delightful seasonal treat you can enjoy any time.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease muffin top pan or line with parchment.
- In mixing bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
- In another bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
- Add pumpkin puree, milk, and vanilla extract to wet ingredients. Whisk until blended.
- Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture using rubber spatula until just combined.
- In small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon for topping.
- Spoon batter evenly onto prepared muffin top pan, smoothing tops.
- Sprinkle each muffin top liberally with cinnamon-sugar topping.
- Bake 14–16 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
- Let cool in pan 5 minutes, then transfer to cooling rack.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Substitution
The Pumpkin Muffin Top from Kneaders Bakery & Cafe copycat recipe captures the bakery's signature moist pumpkin batter and crunchy cinnamon-sugar crust perfectly. You can substitute canned pumpkin puree with homemade pumpkin puree if fresh pumpkin is available, keeping the moisture and flavor intact. If you lack a muffin top pan, use a baking sheet with muffin top molds or scoop batter onto parchment paper to achieve a similar crunchy edge. Adjust spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand without compromising the autumn spice profile. When mixing, opt for an electric mixer to achieve a more aerated texture, though a whisk works well for thorough blending.
Tips
Ensure you measure your dry ingredients accurately, as precise amounts of flour, baking powder, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg are key to balanced flavor and texture. When folding the dry mix into the wet batter, use a rubber spatula to gently combine; overmixing can lead to dense muffin tops. The cinnamon-sugar topping must be added generously right before baking to achieve the signature crunchy crust; skipping this step will affect the final texture. You should allow the muffin tops to cool briefly in the pan before transferring to a cooling rack to prevent breakage and maintain their shape.
Nutritions
The Pumpkin Muffin Top offers a balanced combination of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, primarily from all-purpose flour, vegetable oil, and eggs. Pumpkin puree enhances the muffin with dietary fiber and beta-carotene, a potent antioxidant that supports immune health. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves contribute trace amounts of minerals and have anti-inflammatory properties. Your treat provides a flavorful way to enjoy seasonal nutrients while satisfying sweet cravings.
Storage
Store your Pumpkin Muffin Tops in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their moist texture and spiced flavors. For longer storage, wrap each muffin top individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months, allowing them to thaw at room temperature before serving. Keeping them on a cooling rack before storage prevents sogginess, preserving the crunchy cinnamon-sugar crust.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute canned pumpkin puree with fresh roasted and mashed pumpkin for a more natural flavor. Using melted butter instead of vegetable oil will enrich the texture and add a buttery taste to your muffin tops. For a dairy-free option, replace milk with almond or oat milk without altering the consistency. Try mixing in chopped toasted pecans or walnuts to the batter for added crunch and depth in every bite.
Allergies
Your Pumpkin Muffin Top contains common allergens such as eggs and milk, which may cause reactions in sensitive individuals. The all-purpose flour includes gluten, posing a risk for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Be cautious if you have allergies to any spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, as these are also key ingredients in this recipe.
Why this recipe?
The Pumpkin Muffin Top from Kneaders Bakery & Cafe offers a perfect blend of moist pumpkin flavor and warm spices that creates a comforting autumn treat. Its soft texture combined with a sweet, crumbly topping delivers a satisfying bite that keeps customers coming back. You'll appreciate the balance of natural pumpkin puree and rich cinnamon, making it a healthier and delicious option. Trying to make this copycat recipe lets you enjoy the seasonal favorite fresh from your own kitchen anytime.