Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease well.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, oil, pumpkin puree, and eggs until well combined.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until just combined. Don't overmix!
- Fill each muffin liner about halfway full with the pumpkin muffin batter.
- Top each muffin with a generous spoonful of the cheesecake filling.
- Use a toothpick or knife to gently swirl the cheesecake filling into the pumpkin batter. Don't over swirl.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (or with just a few moist crumbs).
- Let the muffins cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Don't overmix the muffin batter to avoid tough muffins. Ensure cream cheese is softened for a smooth filling. Swirl gently to maintain distinct colors. Use a toothpick to test for doneness in the pumpkin portion of the muffin. Cool completely to allow flavors to meld and texture to set.
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Variations: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the pumpkin muffin batter. Top with a streusel topping before baking or drizzle with a cream cheese glaze after cooling.