These copycat Starbucks pumpkin cream cheese muffins are fluffy, spiced, and oh-so-creamy. With simple ingredients and quick prep, you’ll enjoy a delightful treat that’s perfect for fall and beyond!
Table of Contents

Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins: A Flavorful Fall Treat
If you love the cozy flavors of fall, these copycat Starbucks pumpkin cream cheese muffins are a must-make. They’re packed with warm spices and a luscious cream cheese filling that adds a delightful surprise in every bite. Plus, they come together easily, making them a fantastic choice for breakfast or a sweet snack.

Why You’ll Love These Copycat Muffins
Easy to Make, Irresistible Flavor
With just a handful of ingredients, these muffins are simple to whip up. They combine the comforting warmth of pumpkin and spices with that rich cream cheese center, creating a deliciously satisfying treat. Your kitchen will smell heavenly while they bake!
Perfect for Fall and Beyond
Not only are these muffins perfect for the fall season, but they also work well year-round. Whether for a family brunch or a cozy afternoon snack, they’re sure to please everyone. And don’t forget, they’re great for meal prep, so you can enjoy them throughout the week.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins
For the Muffin Batter
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 ½ cups pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
- ¼ cup butter (melted and cooled)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg
For the Cream Cheese Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon milk
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Muffins
Preparing the Muffin Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Prepare your muffin tin with liners or a quick spritz of nonstick spray. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.
In another bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg until well combined. Then, gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix.
Making the Cream Cheese Filling
To create the creamy center, beat the softened cream cheese with sugar, flour, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and creamy. This filling adds a wonderful richness to every muffin!
Assembling and Baking Your Muffins
Fill the muffin cups about ¾ full with the batter. Then, add a dollop of the cream cheese filling right in the center of each muffin. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the muffins are set and slightly golden on top.
Once baked, let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before removing them from the tin. The aroma will be irresistible!
Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
If you don’t have pumpkin pie spice, you can create your own blend using cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice. For an extra crunch, consider topping your muffins with pumpkin seeds, coarse sugar, or even chocolate chips before baking.
Baking and Pan Preparation Tips
Use high-quality parchment liners or silicone muffin pans to ensure easy removal. If using regular muffin pans, grease them thoroughly to prevent sticking. For a fun twist, try swirling the cream cheese into the batter using a toothpick instead of placing it in the center.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before serving, and allow them to come to room temperature for 10-15 minutes for the best texture.
FAQs
Where can I find the ingredients list?
The ingredients list can be found above in the recipe sections, detailing both the muffin batter and cream cheese filling ingredients.
How long does it take to make these muffins?
The total time to make these muffins is about 34 minutes, including prep and baking time.
Can I use regular cream cheese instead of cream cheese spread?
Yes, you can use regular cream cheese. Just ensure it is softened for easy mixing.
Related Recipes to try
- Starbucks Very Berry Hibiscus Refresher
- Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew
- Cold Brew Coffee
- Cold Brew Coffee
- Coffee Smoothie
Conclusion
These copycat Starbucks pumpkin cream cheese muffins are a delectable way to enjoy the flavors of fall at home. Don’t forget to check out more delicious inspiration on Pinterest to elevate your baking adventures!

Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins: Delightful and Easy
Equipment
- skillet
- mixing bowl
- whisk
Ingredients
- Muffin:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 ½ cups pumpkin puree not pie filling
- ¼ cup butter melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg
- Cream Cheese Filling:
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon flour
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare muffin tin with liners or nonstick spray.
- Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and pumpkin pie spice in a large bowl.
- Mix pumpkin puree, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg in a separate bowl.
- Fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Beat softened cream cheese, sugar, flour, vanilla extract, and milk together until smooth.
- Fill muffin cups ¾ full with batter.
- Add a dollop of the cream cheese filling to the center of each muffin.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes until set and slightly golden.
- Cool on a wire rack for 2-3 minutes before removing from the tin.
Notes
– Spice substitution: Mix cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice if pumpkin pie spice is unavailable.
– Swirl variation: Use a toothpick to swirl the cream cheese into the batter instead of placing it in the center.
– Pan preparation: Use silicone muffin pans or high-quality parchment liners; grease thoroughly if using liners.
– Toppings should be sprinkled before baking.