1cupcanned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
1/2cupvegetable oil (or melted coconut oil for a twist)
1/2cuppacked brown sugar (light or dark, your choice)
1/2cupgranulated sugar
2largeeggs, at room temperature
1teaspoonpure vanilla extract
1 1/2cupsall-purpose flour (or a gluten-free blend if preferred)
1teaspoonbaking powder
1teaspoonbaking soda
1/2teaspoonsalt
1teaspoonground cinnamon
1/2teaspoonground nutmeg
1/2cupsemi-sweet chocolate chips (or dark chocolate for a richer flavor)
1/4cupchopped walnuts or pecans, for added crunch (optional)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cup to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to blend the mixture smoothly until thoroughly combined.
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg to ensure there are no lumps.
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Take care not to overmix, as this can lead to dense muffins.
Gently fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and the optional chopped nuts if you choose to include them.
Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, portion the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full for optimal rising.
Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the muffins comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Once baked, allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Serve warm, optionally dusted with powdered sugar or topped with cream cheese frosting.
Keyword chocolate chips, fall baking, muffins, pumpkin