Spice Cake Pumpkin Muffins
This 3-ingredient recipe for Spice Cake Pumpkin Muffins perfectly captures the flavors of fall in a simple and delicious treat. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up these delightful muffins that are ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Their moist texture and spicy aroma make them a seasonal favorite for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe uses only three ingredients, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of spice cake mix and pumpkin puree delivers a rich, warm flavor that everyone will love.
- Versatile Treat: These muffins are great as a breakfast item, snack, or dessert option, making them suitable for any time of day.
- Perfectly Moist: Thanks to the pumpkin puree, these muffins stay moist and tender even after baking.
- Customizable: Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices to make these muffins your own.

Tools and Preparation
To create these delightful Spice Cake Pumpkin Muffins, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Muffin tin
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Muffin tin: This is essential for shaping your muffins perfectly. It ensures even cooking and helps maintain their shape.
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all your ingredients without making a mess.
- Whisk or spoon: These tools help you easily mix the batter until just combined, ensuring the muffins are light and fluffy.
Ingredients
For the Muffins
- 1 box of spice cake mix
- 1 can (15 oz.) of pure pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
How to Make Spice Cake Pumpkin Muffins
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the spice cake mix, pumpkin puree, and eggs. Stir until just combined; it’s okay if there are some lumps in the batter.
Step 3: Fill the Muffin Cups
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising.
Step 4: Bake the Muffins
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a muffin; it should come out clean.
Step 5: Cool Down
Let the muffins cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Enjoy your Pumpkin Spice Cake Mix Muffins warm! They are delightful on their own or with a pat of butter or cream cheese frosting if desired.
How to Serve Spice Cake Pumpkin Muffins
These delightful Spice Cake Pumpkin Muffins are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a simple breakfast or a special dessert, there are plenty of options to enhance their flavor and presentation.
With Butter or Cream Cheese
- Butter: Spread a thin layer of softened butter on a warm muffin for a rich and comforting taste.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Top with cream cheese frosting for a sweet twist that pairs perfectly with the spices.
As a Breakfast Option
- With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy these muffins alongside your favorite hot beverage for a cozy morning treat.
- Fruit Side: Serve with fresh fruit like sliced apples or pears to add freshness and balance.
For Dessert
- With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of a warm muffin makes for an indulgent dessert.
- Drizzled with Maple Syrup: Add a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness that complements the pumpkin flavor.
How to Perfect Spice Cake Pumpkin Muffins
To ensure your Spice Cake Pumpkin Muffins turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your spice cake mix and pumpkin puree are fresh for the best flavor.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Stir until just combined; this keeps the muffins tender and fluffy.
- Check for Doneness Early: Start checking for doneness at 20 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Cool Properly: Allow them to cool in the tin briefly before transferring to a wire rack to maintain their texture.
Best Side Dishes for Spice Cake Pumpkin Muffins
Pairing side dishes with these muffins can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang that balances the sweetness of the muffins.
- Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs make for a hearty breakfast alongside your muffins.
- Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal can complement the spices in the muffins beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds color and nutrition while cutting through the richness.
- Chai Tea: Serve these muffins with spiced chai tea for a warm, aromatic pairing.
- Almonds or Nuts: Crunchy nuts provide texture and healthy fats, making them an excellent snack alongside.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Spice Cake Pumpkin Muffins can be a breeze, but a few common mistakes can impact your results. Here are some errors to watch for:
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Skipping the preheating: Failing to preheat your oven can lead to uneven baking. Always ensure your oven is at the right temperature before you start baking.
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Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make muffins tough. Stir gently until the ingredients are just combined; lumps are okay.
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Not measuring correctly: Improper measurements can ruin your muffins. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
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Ignoring cooling time: Removing muffins from the tin too early can cause them to break apart. Allow them to cool in the tin for at least 5 minutes first.
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Using expired ingredients: Old spice cake mix or pumpkin puree may affect flavor and texture. Check expiration dates before use.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store muffins in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 4 days in the fridge.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Spice Cake Pumpkin Muffins
- Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Spice Cake Pumpkin Muffins
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat one muffin for about 15-20 seconds on high.
- Stovetop: Cover with a lid and warm on low heat for 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Spice Cake Pumpkin Muffins and their answers:
Can I use other flavors of cake mix?
Yes, you can experiment with different flavors like chocolate or vanilla, but it will change the taste of your muffins.
Are these muffins healthy?
While they are easier to make than traditional recipes, they do contain sugar. You can use low-fat options for healthier versions.
How do I make gluten-free Spice Cake Pumpkin Muffins?
You can substitute spice cake mix with gluten-free cake mix. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What can I add to my Spice Cake Pumpkin Muffins?
Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture!
Final Thoughts
Spice Cake Pumpkin Muffins are not only simple to prepare but also incredibly versatile. They make a delightful treat for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Customize them with your favorite add-ins for a personal touch, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of fall!
Spice Cake Pumpkin Muffins
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with these delightful Spice Cake Pumpkin Muffins. This 3-ingredient recipe combines the warm spices of a classic spice cake mix with the rich creaminess of pumpkin puree, resulting in moist, tender muffins that are perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a quick breakfast, a delightful snack, or a sweet dessert, these muffins are easy to whip up and can be customized with your favorite add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. With their inviting aroma and delectable taste, they are sure to become a seasonal favorite in your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 muffins 1x
- Category: Breakfast/Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 box of spice cake mix
- 1 can (15 oz.) pure pumpkin puree
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the spice cake mix, pumpkin puree, and eggs. Stir until just combined; some lumps are fine.
- Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with the batter.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 muffin (60g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg