Simple 3 Ingredient Pumpkin Muffins Recipe

If you are looking for an easy, delicious, and comforting fall treat, look no further than Simple 3 Ingredient Pumpkin Muffins. These muffins are incredibly straightforward to make yet pack a punch of warm spices and moist pumpkin flavor that feels like a cozy hug with every bite. Using just a cake mix, pumpkin puree, and hot water, this recipe lets you enjoy the taste of pumpkin without any complicated steps or extra fuss. Whether you’re new to baking or pressed for time, these muffins are a game changer for a quick seasonal snack or breakfast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Simple 3 Ingredient Pumpkin Muffins come together from a handful of pantry staples that each bring something wonderful to the mix. The cake mix provides sweetness and structure, the pumpkin puree gives moisture and that classic autumn flavor, and the hot water helps blend everything into a perfect batter.

• Spice cake mix (or yellow cake mix with pumpkin pie spice): This forms the base of your muffins and adds all the cozy cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove notes.
• Unsweetened pumpkin puree (15 oz): The star ingredient that keeps the muffins moist and gives them that beautiful orange hue.
• Hot water (1/4 cup): Helps hydrate the dry cake mix for a smooth batter and ensures the muffins bake up tender, not dry.

How to Make Simple 3 Ingredient Pumpkin Muffins

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Pan

Start by heating your oven to 425° F because a hot oven jumpstarts the muffins’ rise for that perfect light texture. While it warms up, get your muffin pan ready by lining it with baking cups or giving it a quick spray with nonstick cooking spray. This little prep makes sure the muffins pop right out after baking without sticking or breaking apart, which always feels like a small win.

Step 2: Mix the Muffin Batter

In a large bowl, add your spice cake mix or a yellow cake mix enhanced with two tablespoons of pumpkin pie spice for extra pumpkin pie vibes. Then spoon in all 15 ounces of the pumpkin puree and pour in the hot water. Stir everything gently until just combined—remember, you want to avoid overmixing to keep the muffins light and fluffy. Scraping the bowl sides ensures no dry pockets of mix go unnoticed.

Step 3: Fill Muffin Pan and Prepare for Baking

Using a cookie scoop or spoon, fill each muffin cup about three quarters full with the batter. If you want bakery-style muffins with a nice dome, feel free to fill them to the top with two scoops per cup, but keep in mind you’ll need to bake them an extra few minutes to cook through thoroughly.

Step 4: Bake the Muffins

Pop the muffin pan in your preheated oven and bake at 425° F for 5 minutes, then lower the temperature to 350° F without opening the door, and continue baking for another 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the tops are no longer glossy, the muffins spring back lightly when pressed, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Don’t fret if they look a bit firm at first—pumpkin keeps them nice and moist even after cooling.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Take the muffins out and let them sit in the pan for 10 minutes to firm up, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. I love enjoying them just a little warm with a slather of butter—simple perfection! These muffins are great fresh out of the oven or once they’ve cooled down.

How to Serve Simple 3 Ingredient Pumpkin Muffins

Garnishes

Though these muffins are fantastic on their own, a little something extra can take them to the next level. Try a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a dollop of cream cheese frosting, or even a drizzle of maple syrup for sweetness that complements the pumpkin perfectly.

Side Dishes

Pair your muffins with a hot cup of cinnamon-spiced coffee, chai tea, or even a pumpkin latte to keep that autumnal mood going strong. For breakfast, they’re delightful alongside a bowl of Greek yogurt or fresh fruit.

Creative Ways to Present

Host a fall brunch? Arrange these Simple 3 Ingredient Pumpkin Muffins on a rustic wooden board with mini jars of honey, nut butter, or apple butter for guests to customize their bites. You can also serve them warm wrapped in colorful napkins for a cozy picnic vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store these muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. They stay soft and flavorful, making them perfect for snacks throughout the week without any extra effort.

Freezing

Want to keep them longer? These Simple 3 Ingredient Pumpkin Muffins freeze wonderfully. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their taste and texture for up to three months.

Reheating

To enjoy from frozen or refrigerated, simply warm a muffin in the microwave for about 20 seconds or toast it lightly in the oven. This brings back that fresh-baked flavor like they just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use any kind of pumpkin puree?

Yes! Both canned and homemade pumpkin puree work perfectly for these muffins. Just make sure it’s plain pumpkin puree without added sugars or spices to keep the flavor balanced.

What if I don’t have spice cake mix?

No worries! You can use yellow cake mix and simply add two tablespoons of pumpkin pie spice to give it that familiar fall flavor.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely, feel free to toss in some chopped pecans, walnuts, or chocolate chips to add texture and a fun twist to these simple muffins.

How do I know when the muffins are fully baked?

They’re done when the tops lose their glossy sheen, spring back when you press lightly, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Are these muffins gluten-free?

These muffins depend on the cake mix you use. If you want a gluten-free version, look for a gluten-free spice or yellow cake mix and follow the same recipe.

Final Thoughts

These Simple 3 Ingredient Pumpkin Muffins are a fantastic go-to when you want a quick, tasty, and heartwarming pumpkin treat without pulling out a hundred ingredients. They bring genuine seasonal joy with minimal effort, so I highly encourage you to give this recipe a try. Cozy up your kitchen today and enjoy the magic of pumpkin in the simplest, most delicious way!

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