It’s fall, and I’m thrilled—pumpkin season is here. I love picking pumpkins, decorating with them, and most of all cooking and baking with pumpkin puree. Its flavor and texture make it a staple for autumn baking.
Pumpkin Everything
Today we’re focusing on food—specifically an incredibly easy muffin made with just three ingredients, one of which is pumpkin. I paired the pumpkin with chocolate because the two complement each other beautifully. These muffins are moist, lightly spiced (if you choose), and satisfy a chocolate craving without being overly sweet.
Looking through inspiration boards and recipes, it’s remarkable how versatile a can of pumpkin puree can be. It adds fiber and moisture to baked goods, making them feel a bit more wholesome. That’s my gentle justification for calling these muffins a better choice than a typical chocolate cupcake. If you prefer desserts that aren’t too sweet, these chocolate pumpkin muffins are likely to become a favorite.
PIN IT!
Here’s the super simple recipe!
Chocolate Pumpkin Muffins
- 1 box chocolate cake mix
- 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup water
- (Optional) 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice or a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger
Combine the cake mix, pumpkin puree, and water in a bowl. Stir until just combined—do not overmix. Spoon the batter into lined or greased muffin cups, filling about two-thirds full. Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling.
These muffins make a quick, reliable fall treat. They’re portable, satisfying, and easy to customize: fold in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a streusel topping if you like. I’ve seen notes online that place them at about 2 Weight Watchers points per muffin, though I haven’t verified that myself.
Enjoy these chocolate pumpkin muffins warm with coffee or as an afternoon snack. They’re one of those effortless seasonal recipes that feel special despite how simple they are to prepare.