These Healthy Pumpkin Muffins are soft, moist, and bursting with warm autumn spices. Made with just a few simple ingredients—like pumpkin puree and sugar-free yellow cake mix—they’re a guilt-free treat perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Best of all, they’re ready in about 30 minutes and deliver cozy fall flavors in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These muffins are as easy as they are delicious. You only need one bowl and a few pantry staples, and there’s no need for oil, eggs, or butter. The pumpkin keeps them moist while the spices bring that comforting seasonal flavor. They’re low in sugar, light on calories, and perfect for anyone who wants a quick, wholesome sweet treat without all the fuss.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with nonstick spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, pumpkin puree, water, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and nutmeg. Stir until smooth and fully blended.
Spoon the batter evenly into the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
Bake for about 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 12 muffins.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Variations
Spice Cake Option: Substitute the yellow cake mix with a box of sugar-free spice cake mix and omit the extra spices.
Carrot Twist: Use carrot cake mix and add 1/2 cup grated carrots for added fiber and texture.
Egg Addition: For fluffier muffins, mix in one large egg or 1/2 cup egg substitute before baking.
Nutty Crunch: Stir in 1/3 cup chopped walnuts or pecans for a bit of crunch.
Chocolate Chip Delight: Add 1/4 cup mini dark chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence.
Storage/Reheating
Store the cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds or thaw at room temperature.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, just make sure it’s well-puréed and similar in texture to canned pumpkin puree.
2. Are these muffins vegan?
Yes, as written, they are vegan since no eggs, dairy, or butter are used.
3. Can I make these gluten-free?
You can substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free yellow cake mix for a gluten-free version.
4. How do I make them more moist?
Adding a tablespoon of applesauce or a small egg can make them extra moist and fluffy.
5. Can I add protein powder?
Yes, you can replace 1/4 cup of the cake mix with vanilla protein powder for a protein boost.
6. What can I use instead of water?
You can use unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or low-fat milk for added flavor.
7. How do I know when the muffins are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, they’re ready.
8. Can I use pumpkin pie spice instead of the individual spices?
Yes, use 1 1/2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and nutmeg.
9. Do these muffins freeze well?
Absolutely! They freeze beautifully and reheat quickly for a grab-and-go snack.
10. Are these muffins suitable for diabetics?
Since they’re made with no-sugar-added cake mix and natural pumpkin, they can fit into a diabetic-friendly diet in moderation.
Conclusion
These Healthy Pumpkin Muffins are a simple, flavorful, and wholesome treat that brings the taste of fall to your table in just minutes. Whether you’re watching your sugar intake or simply want a quick and cozy snack, these muffins are sure to satisfy. Perfect with a cup of tea or coffee, they’re a fall favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Moist, fluffy, and full of fall flavor, these Healthy Pumpkin Muffins are made with no sugar added yellow cake mix and pumpkin puree. Quick to make, low in sugar, and perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack.
