Vegan Pumpkin Muffins

Vegan pumpkin muffins are the perfect treat for any occasion! These delightful muffins are not just moist and soft; they also burst with flavor and are extremely easy to whip up. With the use of a full can of pumpkin puree, these eggless and dairy-free muffins are great for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Plus, they’re an excellent way to enjoy the warm spices of fall all year round!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires minimal prep time and simple steps, making it perfect for even novice bakers.
• Flavorful: The combination of pumpkin spice and pumpkin puree creates a rich, warm flavor that everyone will adore.
• Versatile: Enjoy these muffins as a breakfast option, snack, or dessert. They fit perfectly into any meal plan!
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients like non-dairy yogurt and pumpkin puree, these muffins are a guilt-free indulgence.
• Great for Storage: These muffins can be stored in an airtight container for up to five days, making them ideal for meal prepping.

Tools and Preparation

To make your vegan pumpkin muffins, gather the necessary tools and ensure you have a proper setup. This will help streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tin
• Muffin liners
• Mixing bowls
• Balloon whisk
• Sifter
• Ice cream scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: Provides the perfect shape for your muffins and ensures even baking.
• Balloon whisk: Helps mix ingredients thoroughly without overworking the batter.
• Sifter: Ensures dry ingredients are well combined and free from lumps, leading to lighter muffins.

Ingredients

Vegan pumpkin muffins – these amazing vegan pumpkin spice muffins are moist, soft, flavourful and so quick and easy to make! They also use a full can of pumpkin puree! Eggless and dairy-free.

For the Muffins

• 240 g (2 cups) plain (all-purpose) flour
• 1 1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)
• 2 1/2 tsp pumpkin spice/mixed spice
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 425 g (15 oz) pumpkin puree (NOT pumpkin pie filling)
• 150 g (3/4 cup) caster sugar
• 90 g (1/2 cup) light brown soft sugar
• 120 ml (1/2 cup) unsweetened non-dairy yogurt (I use soy)
• 120 ml (1/2 cup) sunflower oil (or another flavourless oil)
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Vegan Pumpkin Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F/gas mark 4. Line a 12-hole muffin tin with muffin liners to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Sift together the plain flour, pumpkin spice, bicarbonate of soda, and salt into a bowl. Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, caster sugar, light brown soft sugar, non-dairy yogurt, sunflower oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Gently tip the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Use a balloon whisk to combine them gently until no dry lumps remain.

Step 5: Fill Muffin Cases

Divide the muffin batter evenly between the prepared muffin cases. An ice cream scoop makes this step easier!

Step 6: Bake Muffins

Bake in your preheated oven for about 20–25 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a skewer into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool Down

Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for a couple of minutes before transferring them carefully to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, store your delicious vegan pumpkin muffins in an airtight container for up to five days.

How to Serve Vegan Pumpkin Muffins

Vegan pumpkin muffins are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a cozy dessert, these muffins bring warmth and flavor to any occasion.

For Breakfast

• With Maple Syrup – Drizzle warm muffins with maple syrup for added sweetness.
• Dairy-Free Yogurt – Serve alongside a dollop of non-dairy yogurt for a creamy complement.
• Fresh Fruit – Pair with sliced bananas or apples for a refreshing side.

As a Snack

• Nut Butter Spread – Spread almond or peanut butter on top for extra protein and flavor.
• Trail Mix – Enjoy with a handful of your favorite trail mix for a crunchy contrast.
• Tea or Coffee – Sip with your morning brew or afternoon tea for a cozy treat.

For Dessert

• Whipped Coconut Cream – Top with whipped coconut cream for a deliciously rich finish.
• Dark Chocolate Chips – Add chocolate chips to the batter before baking, or sprinkle on top after baking for indulgence.

How to Perfect Vegan Pumpkin Muffins

To ensure your vegan pumpkin muffins turn out perfectly every time, follow these tips. They will help you achieve that moist and flavorful texture everyone loves.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Always check the freshness of your baking powder and spices; they lose potency over time.
• Measure Accurately – Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to get the right amount of flour and other ingredients.
• Do Not Overmix – Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed to keep the muffins tender.
• Check Oven Temperature – Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures; this helps avoid under- or over-baking.
• Cool Properly – Let the muffins cool completely on a wire rack to maintain their texture and prevent sogginess.

Best Side Dishes for Vegan Pumpkin Muffins

Vegan pumpkin muffins can be enjoyed alongside various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the muffin’s sweetness.
2. Chia Seed Pudding – This creamy dish offers a nutritious boost and pairs well with pumpkin flavor.
3. Smoothie Bowl – Blend your favorite fruits into a smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds for added crunch.
4. Oatmeal – A warm bowl of oatmeal can serve as a hearty base while the muffins add variety.
5. Granola Bars – Crunchy granola bars provide texture contrast and make for an easy grab-and-go option.
6. Roasted Nuts – Serve spiced roasted nuts on the side for an additional layer of flavor and protein.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Vegan Pumpkin Muffins can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Using Pumpkin Pie Filling – Always use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor.
• Skipping the Sifting Step – Failing to sift your dry ingredients may result in a dense muffin. Sifting helps aerate the flour for a lighter texture.
• Overmixing the Batter – Mixing too vigorously can lead to tough muffins. Stir just until combined to keep them soft and fluffy.
• Not Checking for Doneness – Avoid underbaking or overbaking by testing with a skewer. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
• Storing Improperly – Not storing muffins correctly can lead to staleness. Use airtight containers to keep them fresh.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep in a cool section of the fridge to maintain freshness.

Freezing Vegan Pumpkin Muffins

• Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; label the bag with the date.

Reheating Vegan Pumpkin Muffins

• Oven – Preheat to 180°C/350°F, place muffins on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave – Warm a single muffin on high for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over low heat, turning frequently until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Vegan Pumpkin Muffins:

Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure it has xanthan gum for structure.

What can I add to my Vegan Pumpkin Muffins?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for added flavor and texture.

How do I make my muffins less sweet?

To reduce sweetness, decrease the sugar by 1/4 cup or use unsweetened applesauce instead of some sugar.

Can I make these muffins oil-free?

Yes! You can replace oil with unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana for an oil-free version of Vegan Pumpkin Muffins.

How do I store leftover muffins?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them to maintain freshness.

Final Thoughts

These Vegan Pumpkin Muffins are not only easy and quick to make but also incredibly versatile. With their rich flavor and soft texture, they make a perfect snack or breakfast treat. Feel free to customize your muffins with different mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Enjoy the deliciousness!