When the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp, there’s a familiar comfort in the air: pumpkin spice season! I can already taste the warm flavors and cozy vibes in every bite of a Dunkin’ Donuts pumpkin muffin. You might wonder, what pairs perfectly with this autumn treat?
A steaming cup of chai tea, the kind that wraps you in warmth with every sip. Or perhaps a frothy pumpkin spice latte for that extra pumpkin kick. If you prefer something straightforward, a tall glass of cold milk works wonders too. You can’t go wrong by enjoying a muffin with friends as you settle into your favorite cozy spot.
Let’s face it – few things are more inviting than the smell of pumpkin baking in the oven. Dunkin’ Donuts has embraced this joy with their pumpkin muffin. If you’re like me, you’ve probably bought one of these muffins on a brisk fall morning, savoring each bite and basking in the delight of the season.
But have you ever thought of recreating that pumpkin goodness at home? Today, we’ll embark on a journey that will transform your kitchen into a pumpkin paradise.
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What is Dunkin’ Donuts Pumpkin Muffin?
Dunkin’ Donuts pumpkin muffin is a delicious mix of moist, spiced pumpkin cake topped with sweet streusel. It boasts seasonal flavors perfect for the autumn months.
This muffin, soft and delightful, is baked with real pumpkin puree and a mix of the warm spices that call fall to mind. Dunkin’ has mastered the art of making these muffins an essential part of their menu each year, and fans eagerly await their return.
Why This Recipe Works
Every great recipe relies on balance, and that’s exactly what you get with this muffin. The pumpkin puree adds moisture, while the blend of spices – think cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin pie spice – brings warmth and depth.
The streusel topping isn’t just for show; it provides a crunchy contrast to the soft muffin, making each bite an experience. Plus, the ingredients are simple and accessible, which means anyone can whip these up without breaking the bank.
What You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to create these muffins:
For the Streusel:
- 1/2 cup salted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2/3 cup packed brown sugar
For the Muffins:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup melted salted butter
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/3 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Vanilla Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/4 teaspoon maple extract (optional)
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Dunkin’ Donuts Pumpkin Muffin?
Now, let’s explore how to create this delightful treat. Buckle up for the tasty ride ahead!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking! While it heats up, you can prepare your muffin pan. Greasing it or lining with muffin cups prevents sticking, making life a little easier.
Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, pumpkin pie spice, optional ground cinnamon, flour, and brown sugar. Stir until it resembles crumbly sand. Set this aside; it will become a crunchy crown for your muffins.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and optional nutmeg. This step combines the leavening agents with the flavors, ensuring an even mix throughout your muffins.
Step 4: Blend the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, vegetable oil, brown sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients until smooth. The blend of pumpkin and eggs provides the moisture necessary for a tender muffin.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; being careful not to overmix. A few lumps are perfectly fine as they will bake out.
Step 6: Fill the Muffin Pan
Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin pan, filling each cup about two-thirds full. This gives enough room for the muffins to rise without overflowing.
Step 7: Top with Streusel
Now, sprinkle the streusel topping generously over each muffin. This will bake to a golden, crunchy goodness on top.
Step 8: Bake and Cool
Bake the muffins for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Muffins
- Don’t Overmix: Stirring too much will lead to dense muffins. Remember, lumpy is fine!
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Having eggs, butter, and milk at room temp helps ensure a smooth batter.
- Fresh Spices: Use fresh spices for the best flavor. They make a world of difference!
- Proper Measurement: Measure flour by scooping and leveling. Too much flour can lead to dry muffins.
- Adapt sweetness: If you’re sensitive to sugar, you can reduce the brown sugar without much impact on texture.
How to Store Leftovers?
Once you’ve enjoyed these muffins, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain fresh for about 2-3 days. If you need to keep them longer, consider freezing them.
Just wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap, then place in a zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready, just thaw at room temperature and enjoy!
How Would I Recommend Serving Dunkin’ Donuts Pumpkin Muffin?
- With Coffee or Tea: Enjoying a muffin with your favorite brew is a classic combination. The flavors of pumpkin mingle beautifully with a rich dark roast coffee or a spiced tea.
- As a Breakfast Sandwich: Slice a muffin in half, add a dollop of cream cheese, and layer it with smoked salmon or bacon for a savory twist.
- On a Dessert Platter: Cut the muffins into quarters and serve them alongside an assortment of seasonal treats. They fit right in at gatherings.
- With Ice Cream: Crumble a muffin over vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a decadent dessert. A drizzle of caramel or chocolate syrup makes it even better!
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?
Sometimes, you can’t find all the ingredients. Here are some alternatives:
- Pumpkin Puree: Substitute with applesauce if you need a similar moisture content, though it will change the flavor quite slightly.
- Eggs: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan version. Allow it to sit for a few minutes to thicken before adding to your wet ingredient mix.
- Butter: Coconut oil is a wonderful swap if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. It adds a hint of flavor that pairs well with pumpkin.
- Milk: Almond milk or any other non-dairy milk works well in this recipe without altering the texture significantly.
Dunkin Donuts Pumpkin Muffin Recipe
Equipment
- muffin pan
- Oven
Ingredients
Streusel:
- 1/2 cup 115 g / 4 oz salted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional, for added warmth
- 1 cup 120 g / 4.2 oz all-purpose flour
- 2/3 cup 130 g / 4.6 oz packed brown sugar
Pumpkin Muffins:
- 2 cups 240 g / 8.5 oz all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg optional, for extra spice
- 1 cup 225 g / 8 oz canned pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup 55 g / 2 oz salted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup 60 ml / 2 fl oz vegetable oil
- 1 cup 200 g / 7 oz packed brown sugar
- 1/3 cup 75 ml / 2.5 fl oz milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Vanilla Glaze:
- 1 cup 120 g / 4.2 oz powdered (confectioners’/icing) sugar, sifted
- 1/4 teaspoon maple extract optional, for a subtle maple flavor
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Now, let’s explore how to create this delightful treat. Buckle up for the tasty ride ahead!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking! While it heats up, you can prepare your muffin pan. Greasing it or lining with muffin cups prevents sticking, making life a little easier.
Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping
- In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, pumpkin pie spice, optional ground cinnamon, flour, and brown sugar. Stir until it resembles crumbly sand. Set this aside; it will become a crunchy crown for your muffins.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and optional nutmeg. This step combines the leavening agents with the flavors, ensuring an even mix throughout your muffins.
Step 4: Blend the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, eggs, melted butter, vegetable oil, brown sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix these ingredients until smooth. The blend of pumpkin and eggs provides the moisture necessary for a tender muffin.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir until just combined; being careful not to overmix. A few lumps are perfectly fine as they will bake out.
Step 6: Fill the Muffin Pan
- Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin pan, filling each cup about two-thirds full. This gives enough room for the muffins to rise without overflowing.
Step 7: Top with Streusel
- Now, sprinkle the streusel topping generously over each muffin. This will bake to a golden, crunchy goodness on top.
Step 8: Bake and Cool
- Bake the muffins for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Don’t Overmix: Stirring too much will lead to dense muffins. Remember, lumpy is fine!
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Having eggs, butter, and milk at room temp helps ensure a smooth batter.
- Fresh Spices: Use fresh spices for the best flavor. They make a world of difference!
- Proper Measurement: Measure flour by scooping and leveling. Too much flour can lead to dry muffins.
- Adapt sweetness: If you’re sensitive to sugar, you can reduce the brown sugar without much impact on texture.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these muffins gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free flour blend for a fantastic result. Just ensure it includes a binder like xanthan gum.
2. How can I make these muffins sweeter?
If you’d like a sweeter muffin, increase the amount of brown sugar slightly. You could also fold in chocolate chips or dried cranberries for added sweetness and flavor.
3. Can I store these muffins in the fridge?
While you can store muffins in the fridge, it’s best to keep them at room temperature to maintain their texture. Refrigeration can dry them out.
4. Can I add nuts to the batter?
Definitely! Walnuts or pecans would enhance the muffin’s texture and add a crunchy element. Just make sure to chop them before incorporating them into your batter.
5. How do I tell when my muffins are done?
Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, you’re good to go! If it has batter clinging to it, give them a few more minutes to bake.
6. What if I want to reduce the fat content?
You can substitute applesauce for some of the butter or oil. Usually, 1/4 cup of applesauce can replace 1/4 cup of oil or butter. This swap adds less fat while still keeping the muffin moist.
Conclusion
There’s something magical about the combination of pumpkin and fall that brings warmth and memories flooding back. Recreating Dunkin’ Donuts pumpkin muffins at home allows you to indulge in that magic anytime you wish.
With straightforward steps and easily accessible ingredients, you can impress friends and family alike. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or save them for later delights, these muffins are sure to become a seasonal staple in your home. So, grab your mixing bowl and let’s get baking!