Pumpkin Cheesecake Muffins – A Cozy Fall Favorite with a Creamy Twist

Introduction

Pumpkin Cheesecake Muffins are everything I love about fall baking wrapped into one irresistible treat. When the weather cools and pumpkin spice cravings start, these muffins are always one of the first recipes I reach for. They combine moist, warmly spiced pumpkin muffins with a rich, creamy cheesecake center that feels indulgent without being overwhelming. Each bite delivers soft pumpkin crumb, gentle spice, and a smooth cheesecake surprise in the middle. What makes these muffins especially appealing is how versatile they are. They work beautifully for breakfast, brunch, afternoon coffee, or as a light dessert. Despite how bakery-worthy they look, they are straightforward to make with simple ingredients and no complicated steps. If you enjoy classic fall flavors with a creamy twist, these pumpkin cheesecake muffins are a cozy recipe you will want to bake again and again throughout the season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together two favorites, pumpkin muffins and cheesecake, in one perfectly portioned treat. The muffins are soft, moist, and warmly spiced, while the cheesecake center adds richness and contrast. They are easy to make, store well, and feel special without being fussy.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pumpkin Purée
Pumpkin purée adds moisture, flavor, and classic fall character to the muffins.

All-Purpose Flour
Flour provides structure while keeping the muffins soft and tender.

Sugar
Sugar sweetens the batter and balances the warm spices.

Brown Sugar
Brown sugar adds depth and a subtle caramel note.

Eggs
Eggs bind the ingredients and give the muffins structure.

Vegetable Oil
Oil keeps the muffins moist and soft for days.

Baking Powder
Baking powder helps the muffins rise evenly.

Baking Soda
Baking soda contributes to a light, fluffy texture.

Salt
Salt enhances the sweetness and spice flavors.

Pumpkin Spice
Pumpkin spice adds warmth and signature fall flavor.

Cinnamon
Cinnamon deepens the spice profile and aroma.

Cream Cheese
Cream cheese creates the rich, creamy cheesecake filling.

Vanilla Extract
Vanilla enhances both the pumpkin batter and cheesecake filling.

Directions

Begin by preheating the oven and lining a muffin tin with paper liners. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pumpkin spice, and cinnamon.

In a separate bowl, mix pumpkin purée, eggs, sugar, brown sugar, oil, and vanilla until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined.

In another bowl, beat the cream cheese with a small amount of sugar and vanilla until smooth and creamy.

Fill each muffin liner halfway with pumpkin batter. Add a spoonful of cheesecake filling to the center, then top with more pumpkin batter, covering the filling.

Bake until the muffins are set and lightly golden. Allow them to cool before serving so the cheesecake center can fully set.

Equipment needed

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.

 3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about twelve muffins. Preparation takes approximately 20 minutes, and baking time is around 25 minutes.

Storage/reheating

Store pumpkin cheesecake muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Bring to room temperature before serving or warm slightly if desired.

Variations and Customizations

Pumpkin Cheesecake Muffins are easy to customize. You can swirl the cheesecake filling into the batter for a marbled look instead of a center filling. Adding chopped pecans or walnuts provides a nice crunch. For extra indulgence, sprinkle streusel or cinnamon sugar on top before baking. You can also add a touch of maple syrup to the cheesecake filling for deeper fall flavor. These muffins can easily be made mini for parties or gatherings.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

These muffins provide carbohydrates for energy and fats from cream cheese and oil. They are a rich fall treat best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Expert Tips & Customizations

Do Not Overmix
Mix gently to keep muffins tender.

Room Temperature Cream Cheese
Softened cream cheese ensures a smooth filling.

Even Filling
Center the cheesecake for best results.

Cooling Time
Allow muffins to cool fully for clean texture.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pumpkin purée?

Yes, just ensure it is thick and well-drained.

Can I freeze these muffins?

Yes, freeze without liners and thaw before serving.

Are these muffins very sweet?

They are balanced with gentle sweetness.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

Why did my cheesecake sink?

Too much filling or underbaking can cause sinking.

Can I add chocolate chips?

Yes, they pair well with pumpkin.

Should these muffins be refrigerated?

Yes, due to the cream cheese filling.

Can I use muffin tops only?

A full muffin shape works best for the filling.

What spices can I add?

Nutmeg or ginger add extra warmth.

Are these good for breakfast?

Yes, they work well as a special breakfast treat.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Cheesecake Muffins are a cozy fall favorite that combines soft, spiced pumpkin muffins with a creamy cheesecake center. Easy to make, beautiful to serve, and full of seasonal flavor, these muffins are perfect for autumn mornings, gatherings, or anytime you want a comforting baked treat with a luxurious twist.

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