Sourdough Pumpkin Muffins

These Sourdough Pumpkin Muffins are a delightful blend of fall flavors and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack, they utilize sourdough discard, making them not only delicious but also a great way to reduce waste. The moist texture and sweet spiced aroma will have your family coming back for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, these muffins are quick to whip up.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a comforting taste that’s perfect for chilly days.
• Family-Friendly: These muffins are loved by both kids and adults, making them a hit at any family gathering.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as breakfast, a snack, or even dessert; they fit any occasion!
• Great Use of Discard: If you have sourdough discard, this recipe is an excellent way to incorporate it into your baking.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tin
• Mixing bowls
• Hand mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: Ensures even baking and perfect portion sizes for each muffin.
• Mixing bowls: Provides enough space to mix wet and dry ingredients properly without spills.
• Hand mixer or whisk: Helps achieve a smooth batter, ensuring all ingredients blend seamlessly.

Ingredients

For these delicious Sourdough Pumpkin Muffins, you’ll need the following:

• 1 ½ cups pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 1/2 cup organic cane sugar (or sub more coconut sugar)
• 1/2 cup coconut sugar
• 1/2 cup coconut oil (melted and cooled)
• 1/2 cup sourdough discard
• 2 eggs (room temp)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (unbleached)
• 1 ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• ¾ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 cup chocolate chips (dairy free if needed)

How to Make Sourdough Pumpkin Muffins

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. You will adjust the temperature later during baking.

Step 2: Prepare Muffin Cups

Line 12 muffin cups with liners and set them aside.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Use a hand mixer or whisk to beat together:
– Pumpkin puree
– Cane sugar
– Coconut sugar
– Melted coconut oil
– Sourdough discard
– Eggs
– Vanilla extract

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
1. Stir together:
– All-purpose flour
– Baking soda
– Sea salt
– Cinnamon
– Ginger
– Nutmeg
– Cloves

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add your dry mixture into the bowl with the wet ingredients:
1. Stir until almost fully combined.

Step 6: Add Chocolate Chips

Fold in your chocolate chips:
1. Mix until no flour is visible.

Step 7: Fill Muffin Cups

Divide the batter among the lined muffin cups evenly.

Step 8: Bake the Muffins

Bake in the preheated oven:
1. For 5 minutes at 400°F.
2. Then reduce the temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted.

Enjoy your freshly baked Sourdough Pumpkin Muffins! They make an excellent treat for any time of day.

How to Serve Sourdough Pumpkin Muffins

These sourdough pumpkin muffins are deliciously versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, here are some creative serving suggestions to make the most of your muffins.

With Cream Cheese Frosting

• Spread a layer of creamy frosting on top for a sweet touch.
• Use flavored cream cheese for an extra kick.

With Maple Syrup Drizzle

• Drizzle warm maple syrup over the muffins.
• This adds a lovely sweetness and enhances the pumpkin flavor.

Paired with Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside sliced apples or pears for a refreshing contrast.
• Berries also add a nice tartness that complements the muffins.

As Part of a Breakfast Spread

• Include them in a breakfast platter with eggs and bacon.
• These muffins add a delightful sweet option to your morning meal.

Warmed with Butter

• Heat the muffins slightly and spread with butter.
• This makes for a comforting treat, especially on cold days.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy your muffins alongside a cup of coffee or tea.
• The flavors of pumpkin pair beautifully with spiced chai or rich coffee.

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How to Perfect Sourdough Pumpkin Muffins

To ensure your sourdough pumpkin muffins turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh spices and baking soda will enhance flavor and texture.
• Check your oven temperature – An oven thermometer can help ensure accurate baking temps.
• Don’t overmix – Stir until just combined to avoid dense muffins; lumps are okay!
• Cool before serving – Allow muffins to cool slightly so they set properly and are easier to handle.
• Experiment with mix-ins – Try adding nuts or dried fruits for added flavor and texture.
• Store properly – Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Pumpkin Muffins

Complement your sourdough pumpkin muffins with these tasty side dishes. Each option enhances the experience and makes for a well-rounded meal.

1. Scrambled Eggs – Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein and balance the sweetness of the muffins.
2. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a refreshing side that contrasts well.
3. Smoothie Bowl – A vibrant smoothie bowl adds nutrition and color, making breakfast more exciting.
4. Bacon Strips – Crispy bacon adds savory crunch that pairs well with sweet flavors of the muffin.
5. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits brings brightness and freshness to your plate.
6. Oatmeal – Creamy oatmeal topped with nuts complements the muffin’s texture while being filling.
7. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses can create an interesting flavor profile alongside the muffins.
8. Chai Tea – The spices in chai enhance the flavors of pumpkin, making it an ideal beverage pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making sourdough pumpkin muffins can be a joy, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch for.

• Using pumpkin pie filling: Pumpkin pie filling contains spices and sugar that alter the flavor of your muffins. Always use fresh pumpkin puree for the best results.
• Not measuring ingredients properly: Accurate measurements are key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you’re adding the right amounts.
• Skipping room temperature eggs: Eggs at room temperature blend better into the batter, leading to a more uniform texture. Take them out ahead of time if you can.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense muffins. Stir just until combined for light and fluffy sourdough pumpkin muffins.
• Ignoring oven calibration: Oven temperatures can vary. Use an oven thermometer to make sure yours is accurate for perfect baking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep muffins at room temperature if you plan to eat them within a couple of days.

Freezing Sourdough Pumpkin Muffins

• Freeze muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
• Ensure they are completely cooled before freezing to avoid ice crystals.

Reheating Sourdough Pumpkin Muffins

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm muffins for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place muffins in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making sourdough pumpkin muffins, you’re not alone! Here are some commonly asked queries.

What makes these Sourdough Pumpkin Muffins so special?

Sourdough pumpkin muffins combine the tanginess of sourdough with the sweet flavor of pumpkin. This unique mix creates a delightful taste that’s perfect for fall.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may alter the texture slightly, making it denser. For lighter muffins, consider mixing half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.

How do I know when my Sourdough Pumpkin Muffins are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your muffins are done baking!

Can I add nuts to the recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add great texture and flavor. Just fold them in with the chocolate chips before baking.

What can I serve with these muffins?

These muffins pair wonderfully with coffee or tea. You could also enjoy them with butter or cream cheese spread for extra richness.

Final Thoughts

These sourdough pumpkin muffins are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Feel free to customize them by adding nuts, spices, or even swapping chocolate chips for dried fruit. Enjoy this comforting treat during breakfast or as a snack any time of day!