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Easy Pumpkin Muffins: A Delicious Autumn Treat

As the leaves begin to change colour and the crisp air sweeps in, there’s something undeniably comforting about the flavours of autumn. One of the quintessential autumn recipes is for pumpkin muffins—light, moist, and brimming with the warm spices that define the season. These Easy Pumpkin Muffins are perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even as a delightful addition to a cosy gathering with friends.

Why Pumpkin?

Pumpkin is not only prized for its taste but also for its nutritional value. Packed with vitamins A and C, fibre, and antioxidants, it makes a healthy addition to baked goods. Furthermore, pumpkin can lend a beautiful colour and moistness to muffins that you simply won’t find in standard recipes.

Ingredients

To make these scrumptious Easy Pumpkin Muffins, you will need the following ingredients:

• 250g (2 cups) plain flour
• 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 240ml (1 cup) canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 120ml (½ cup) vegetable oil
• 60ml (¼ cup) milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: 100g (1 cup) chocolate chips or chopped walnuts for added texture

Method

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a muffin tin with paper cases or grease it lightly with oil to prevent sticking.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the plain flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until well combined.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs and then stir in the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.

4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold the mixture together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense muffins. If using, fold in the chocolate chips or walnuts at this stage.

5. Spoon into Muffin Tin: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cases, filling each about two-thirds full.

6. Bake: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre of a muffin comes out clean.

7. Cool: Once baked, remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Enjoy: Serve warm or at room temperature. These muffins can be stored in an airtight container for several days or frozen for later enjoyment.

Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Muffins

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for optimal rising.
• Sift Your Dry Ingredients: Sifting can help to aerate the flour and ensure an even distribution of the baking powder and spices.
• Experiment with Flavours: Don’t hesitate to customise your muffins. Add in dried fruit, seeds, or other spices like cloves or allspice for a unique twist.
• Serve with a Drizzle: For an extra indulgent touch, consider drizzling a simple icing made from icing sugar and milk over the cooled muffins.

Conclusion

Easy Pumpkin Muffins are a wonderful way to usher in the autumn season. With their delightful texture and aromatic spices, they are sure to please family and friends alike. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven with a spread of butter or paired with a cup of tea, these muffins capture the essence of fall in every bite. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy the simple pleasure of baking—your kitchen will smell divine!

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