Irresistible Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins Recipe

Posted on March 18, 2025 · By Elisa

pumpkin chocolate chip muffins with text overlay

Pumpkin chocolate chip muffins are the ultimate fall treat—moist, fluffy, and packed with warm spices and gooey chocolate chips. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast, a delightful afternoon snack, or a festive dessert, these muffins are guaranteed to hit the spot.

This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers. The combination of pumpkin purée and chocolate chips creates a soft, tender texture with just the right amount of sweetness. Plus, they stay fresh for days and can even be frozen for later. If you’re a fan of pumpkin and chocolate, this is the perfect recipe for you!

Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

There are so many reasons to fall in love with these muffins. Here’s why they’re a must-try:

  • Moist & Soft Texture – Thanks to the pumpkin purée, these muffins stay incredibly soft and fluffy.
  • Perfectly Spiced – A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and other warm spices makes each bite rich and flavorful.
  • Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, these muffins come together in no time.
  • Chocolatey Goodness – The melted chocolate chips add a rich, decadent touch to every bite.
  • Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleasing – These muffins are great for school lunches, family gatherings, or holiday treats.

Ingredients for the Best Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

To make these delicious muffins, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure and stability.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the muffins rise and become fluffy.
  • ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth.
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg – Complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
  • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar – Sweetens the muffins.
  • ½ cup (100g) brown sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
  • ¾ cup (180ml) vegetable oil – Keeps the muffins extra soft and moist.
  • 1 cup (240g) pumpkin purée – The star ingredient, providing moisture and flavor.
  • 2 large eggs – Helps bind the ingredients together.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
  • ¾ cup (130g) chocolate chips – For pockets of melty, chocolatey goodness.

Essential Kitchen Equipment

Before getting started, make sure you have the following kitchen tools:

  • Mixing bowls – For combining the wet and dry ingredients.
  • Whisk – To mix the batter smoothly.
  • Muffin tin – To bake the muffins evenly.
  • Paper liners – For easy cleanup and a beautiful presentation.
  • Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accuracy in the recipe.
  • Toothpick – To check for doneness.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
  3. Combine the wet ingredients – In another bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined. Add the pumpkin purée, eggs, and vanilla extract, then mix until smooth.
  4. Incorporate the dry ingredients – Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the muffins dense.
  5. Fold in the chocolate chips – Gently stir in the chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
  6. Fill the muffin cups – Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
  7. Bake for 18-22 minutes – Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool before serving – Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfectly Moist Muffins

  • Do not overmix the batter – Overmixing can lead to dense, tough muffins. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
  • Use room-temperature eggs – This helps create a smooth batter and better texture.
  • Measure the flour correctly – Spoon the flour into a measuring cup and level it off to avoid using too much.
  • Let the muffins cool properly – Cooling prevents them from becoming soggy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Overbaking – This can dry out the muffins, so keep a close eye on them.
  • Not mixing dry and wet ingredients separately first – Doing this ensures even distribution of ingredients.
  • Skipping the paper liners – Without liners, the muffins might stick to the tin.

Variations & Substitutions

  • Dairy-Free – Use dairy-free chocolate chips and replace the eggs with flax eggs.
  • Gluten-Free – Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
  • Nutty Twist – Add chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.

Serving & Presentation Ideas

  • Serve warm with a pat of butter for an extra indulgent treat.
  • Dust the tops with powdered sugar for a bakery-style finish.
  • Pair with a warm cup of tea, coffee, or a spiced latte.

How to Store and Freeze Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

  • At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • In the refrigerator: Keep for up to 1 week in a sealed container.
  • Freezing: Wrap each muffin in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.

Food Pairing Suggestions

  • Enjoy these muffins with a bowl of yogurt and honey for a balanced breakfast.
  • Pair with a fruit smoothie for a refreshing snack.
  • Serve with a cup of hot cocoa for a cozy dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin purée?
Yes! Make sure to roast and purée the pumpkin until smooth.

Can I make mini muffins instead of regular-sized muffins?
Absolutely! Reduce the baking time to 10-12 minutes.

Why did my muffins turn out dense?
Overmixing the batter or using too much flour can cause dense muffins.

Can I replace the oil with butter?
Yes, but the muffins may be slightly less moist.

Conclusion

These pumpkin chocolate chip muffins are the perfect way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With their soft, moist texture and rich chocolatey bites, they’re bound to become a household favorite. Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store them for later, they always taste amazing. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. If you love this recipe, subscribe for more delicious baking ideas!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 12 muffins

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Irresistible Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins Recipe


  • Author: Elisa
  • Total Time: 30
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

These moist and fluffy pumpkin chocolate chip muffins are packed with warm spices and gooey chocolate. Easy and delicious!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure and stability.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the muffins rise and become fluffy.
  • ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth.
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg – Complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully.
  • ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar – Sweetens the muffins.
  • ½ cup (100g) brown sugar – Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
  • ¾ cup (180ml) vegetable oil – Keeps the muffins extra soft and moist.
  • 1 cup (240g) pumpkin purée – The star ingredient, providing moisture and flavor.
  • 2 large eggs – Helps bind the ingredients together.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.

 

  • ¾ cup (130g) chocolate chips – For pockets of melty, chocolatey goodness.

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup.
  • Mix the dry ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
  • Combine the wet ingredients – In another bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined. Add the pumpkin purée, eggs, and vanilla extract, then mix until smooth.
  • Incorporate the dry ingredients – Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the muffins dense.
  • Fold in the chocolate chips – Gently stir in the chocolate chips, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
  • Fill the muffin cups – Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
  • Bake for 18-22 minutes – Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

 

  • Cool before serving – Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the batter – Overmixing can lead to dense, tough muffins. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
  • Use room-temperature eggs – This helps create a smooth batter and better texture.
  • Measure the flour correctly – Spoon the flour into a measuring cup and level it off to avoid using too much.

 

  • Let the muffins cool properly – Cooling prevents them from becoming soggy.
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 20
  • Category: DESSERT
  • Cuisine: AMERICAN

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 25mg

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