Name: Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup canned pumpkin puree; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating); 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

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Introduction to Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites

With the changing season to fall, and the cooling crisp to the air, I find myself always in need of something warm and comforting to eat. Enter my Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites—the ideal balance of sweet, spice, and everything nice! These lovable little bites are not only an easy quick for a busy day but also a delectable way to woo your loved ones. Whether you come home to chaos on a busy evening or plan some kind of get-together, these tiny muffins are solace and happiness rolled into one lip-smacking bite. You’ll see; you can’t have just one!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites

These Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites are a really fun and yummy fall treat! Super easy to put together so you can make a batch in just 30 minutes. A warm kick of pumpkin and cinnamon flavors gives that little ‘say-hello-to-fall’ hug to your taste buds. Last-minute dessert for when you really need something sweet, or a special treat in lunch boxes that’s so much better than store-bought options. How could Fall be so … delicious?

Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites

Let’s gather the essentials for these scrumptious Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that delicious balance of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

Canned pumpkin puree: This gives our bites a rich, moist texture and that classic pumpkin flavor.
Granulated sugar: Essential for sweetness, this sugar is used in the batter and the cinnamon sugar coating, making each bite irresistible.
Vegetable oil: Adds moisture and helps keep the bites tender. You can also use melted coconut oil for a twist!
Large egg: This binds everything together and helps the bites rise to fluffy perfection.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this enhances the flavors, making the bites even more delightful.
All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of our recipe. It provides structure and helps create the perfect crumb.
Baking powder and baking soda: These two leavening agents work their magic, making the bites rise beautifully.
Ground cinnamon: The star spice! Its warm, sweet aroma fills your kitchen, setting the stage for fall.
Ground nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg adds depth and complements the cinnamon perfectly.
Salt: Just a touch helps to balance the sweetness and enhance the other flavors.
Unsalted butter: Melted and brushed on before rolling in cinnamon sugar, this gives a rich flavor and helps the sugar adhere.
Cinnamon sugar mixture: A blend of sugar and cinnamon for coating, it’s what makes these bites truly irresistible!

For exact measurements, be sure to check the bottom of the article, where you’ll find everything laid out beautifully for printing. Enjoy the process of gathering these ingredients and get ready for a delightful treat that embodies the flavors of fall!

Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites – Sweet, Fluffy & Full of Fall Flavor!

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites

Ready to dive into the joy of making these delicious Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites? Let’s get our hands a bit floury and follow these simple steps to create a treat that’s sure to charm everyone!

Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a consistent baking temperature. While the oven warms, grab your mini muffin pan. Grease it lightly or line it with cute paper liners. Trust me, it makes for easy cleanup. Plus, those little paper cups are like cozy beds for your pumpkin bites!

Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together your canned pumpkin puree, sugar, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract. Make sure it’s smooth and well combined; you want a velvety mixture. As you whisk, the sweet aroma of pumpkin and vanilla will tease your senses. You can’t help but smile as you prepare this delightful batter!

Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Sifting helps to aerate the flour, making for lighter bites. Gradually add this dry mix to your wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Remember, it’s okay if a few lumps remain—overmixing can make your bites tough!

Fill the Muffin Pan

Now it’s time to fill those muffin cups! Using a spoon or a medium cookie scoop, fill each cup about 3/4 full with batter. This will allow enough space for the bites to rise without spilling over. As I do this, I can’t help but imagine the fluffy little bites just waiting to be devoured!

Baking the Bites

Place your muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The bites are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This is the moment when your kitchen fills with the heavenly scent of cinnamon and sugar. It’s like a warm hug from the oven!

Coating with Cinnamon Sugar

Once the bites are baked to perfection, let them cool for about 5 minutes in the pan. While they cool, mix together 1/2 cup of sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Now, brush each warm bite with melted butter, then roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until they’re perfectly coated. Just like that, you’ve transformed simple bites into little treasures of joy!

Tips for Success

Don’t overmix the batter; this keeps your bites soft and fluffy.
Ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh for the best rise.
Feel free to swap half the flour for whole wheat flour for added nutrition.
Experiment with spices! A hint of ginger or allspice can enhance the flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them moist and delicious!

Equipment Needed

Mini muffin pan: This is perfect for small bites. A regular muffin pan works too, just adjust the baking time.
Mixing bowls: You’ll need at least two for wet and dry ingredients.
Whisk: Great for combining the wet ingredients smoothly.
Spoon or cookie scoop: For filling the muffin cups evenly.
Baking brush: Handy for applying melted butter before rolling in cinnamon sugar.

Variations for Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites

Dairy-free option: Substitute the butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based milk instead of regular milk if desired.
Nutty addition: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch and flavor.
Chocolate chip twist: Throw in a handful of chocolate chips for a delightful sweet surprise in every bite.
Whole grain goodness: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to boost the fiber content.
Gluten-free version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously inclusive treat!
Spice it up: Add a dash of ground ginger or cloves to the batter to elevate the warm spices even further.

Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites

Pair with a warm cup of chai or spiced apple cider for that cozy fall vibe.
Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Present on a beautiful platter with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon for a tempting display.
Enjoy as a snack with evening tea to satisfy those sweet cravings.

FAQs about Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites

Here are some common questions you might have about making these delightful Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites. I know that with busy schedules, it’s important to find quick answers to make your time in the kitchen as smooth as possible!

Can I make these bites ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before baking. Another option is to bake them ahead of time and store them in an airtight container. Just reheat them slightly in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!

Can I freeze Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites?

Yes, these bites freeze wonderfully! Just allow them to cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. When you’re ready for a treat, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven.

What can I substitute for pumpkin puree?

If you don’t have pumpkin puree on hand, you can use applesauce as a substitute. It will add moisture and sweetness, although the flavor will be slightly different. Sweet potato puree is another fantastic alternative that pairs wonderfully with the spices!

How can I make these bites less sweet?

If you find the bites are too sweet for your taste, you can reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the batter and the coating mixture. Feel free to adjust it to suit your preference. You can also add a sprinkle of sea salt on top to balance the sweetness!

Are these bites healthy?

While they are not a health food, Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites offer a delightful treat that’s perfect in moderation. They contain pumpkin, which is packed with nutrients. If you’re looking for healthier options, consider using whole wheat flour or reducing the sugar as mentioned earlier.

Final Thoughts

Baking these Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Bites fills the house with the delicious fragrance of the season. These are not just desserts; they are small doses of happiness which lighten up the faces of all. It’s liquid warmth, love, and happy holiday gatherings all rolled into one. Enjoying them on your own on a crisp afternoon or giving them out, either way memories are made with these bites. Now, get your ingredients together and your sleeves rolled up to enjoy the very best kind of cooking—baking! You’ll be amazed how quickly these delectable delicacies are eagerly anticipated in your home.