Spiced Pumpkin Muffins

Bold, Aromatic & Flavorful

These pumpkin muffins offer a delightful twist on a classic fall treat, infused with the warm and aromatic notes of Chinese five spice. The spice blend beautifully complements the sweet, earthy pumpkin, creating a uniquely flavorful muffin. Their moist, tender crumb and subtle spice make them perfect for a cozy morning or a festive afternoon snack.

Imagine biting into a soft, golden muffin, where the familiar comfort of pumpkin meets the intriguing warmth of star anise, cinnamon, cloves, fennel, and Sichuan peppercorns. This unexpected combination elevates the simple pumpkin muffin into something truly special, a delightful balance of sweet and savory that will leave you wanting more.

⏳Prep Time: 10 minutes | 🔥Cook time: 20-25 minutes | 🥘 Total Time: 35 minutes | 📌Servings: 4

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tbsp USimplySeason Chinese Five Spice
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Wet Ingredients

• 1 can pumpkin puree
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 1/3 cup water
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

• Preheat and Prepare – Preheat your oven 375°F(190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it

• Combine Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, Chinese five spice powder, salt, and sugar.

• Combine Wet Ingredients – In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, water, eggs, and vanilla extract.

• Combine Wet and Dry – Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir just until combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.

• Fill Muffin Cups – Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling them about three-quarters full.

• Bake – Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean.

• Cool – Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

🔄 Tips and Variations:

• Spice Adjustment: – Adjust the amount of Chinese five spice to your preference. Start with 1 tablespoon and add more if you want a stronger flavor.

• Nutty Addition: - Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can be added to the batter for the added texture

• Cream Cheese Frosting: - A cream cheese frosting pairs wonderfully with the muffins

• Streusel Addition: - Combine brown sugar, chinese five spice and butter then sprinkle on top as soon as the muffins are out of the oven. You can add them before you bake, but the sugar can melt.