Pumpkin Spice Cranberry Muffins
Warm spices meet tart cranberries in a soft, golden muffin.
Introduction
Pumpkin spice isn’t just for lattes — it’s a flavor that instantly evokes autumn comfort. When paired with tart cranberries, you get a muffin that’s both cozy and refreshing. These muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or holiday gatherings, and they freeze beautifully for make‑ahead treats.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
1¾ cups all‑purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1½ tsp pumpkin spice (or a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
Wet Ingredients
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
¾ cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
1 tsp vanilla extract
Add‑Ins
1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease lightly.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin spice.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin purée, and vanilla until smooth.
Combine
Add dry ingredients to wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined.
Fold in cranberries and nuts if using.
Bake
Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
Bake 18–22 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool & Serve
Let muffins cool on a wire rack.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
Recipe Notes
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: ~35 minutes
Yield: 12 muffins
Tips for Success
Don’t overmix batter — it keeps muffins tender.
Use fresh cranberries for a tart burst, or dried for a sweeter chew.
Sprinkle coarse sugar on top before baking for a crunchy finish.
Muffins freeze well; store in freezer bags for up to 2 months.
Fun Variations
Cranberry Orange Muffins: Add 1 tbsp orange zest to the batter.
Chocolate Chip Twist: Fold in ½ cup white chocolate chips.
Glazed Muffins: Drizzle with simple powdered sugar glaze.
Mini Muffins: Bake in mini tins for bite‑sized treats.
Serving Ideas
Pair with coffee or spiced tea for a cozy breakfast.
Serve at holiday brunch buffets.
Pack in lunchboxes for a festive snack.
Warm slightly and spread with cream cheese or butter.
Storytelling Element
Imagine pulling a tray of these muffins from the oven: golden tops, the aroma of pumpkin spice filling the kitchen, and tart cranberries peeking through each bite. They’re the kind of treat that makes mornings feel special and gatherings more memorable.
Conclusion
These Pumpkin Spice Cranberry Muffins are a delightful blend of warm spices and tart fruit, perfect for autumn mornings or holiday celebrations. Easy to make, freezer‑friendly, and endlessly customizable, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite.