Pumpkin Spice Muffins

Plump raisins and sweet pecans make these Pumpkin Spice Muffins a quintessential autumn treat that can be enjoyed any time of day.

While I'm probably one of the the last people who will admit to 'enjoying' winter, I will say there is something undeniably comforting about dark autumnal mornings and the early frost on the paling trees. There's something about the cold that even makes tea and coffee taste better.

Such days call for something heartier (and warmer) than my usual cold yogurt bowl and fruit. Think warm oats, scones, and muffins. I've been planning a few recipes that fall in each of these categories, and today I am pleased to pass on these Pumpkin Spice Muffins. The recipe is easy and is comprised of pantry staples, making it accessible too.

So, roll up your sleeves and heat up the oven, we're making muffins today, and if you ever had trouble getting the household up and at 'em- you won't after today.

Pumpkin Spice MuffinsPhoto byLiving the Gourmet

Ingredients

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt
• 1 teaspoon Pumpkin Pie Spice
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup canned solid packed pumpkin
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup raisins

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Prepare a cupcake tin with liners and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, place raisins and cover with enough boiling water to cover. Let stand for about 5 minutes until plump, then drain and set aside.
3. **In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, Pumpkin Pie Spice, and fresh nutmeg.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, pumpkin, oil, and vanilla. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix to combine.
5. Fold in the reserved raisins and chopped pecans to the batter. Divide the batter between the muffin tins and bake for about 25 minutes until golden or until the cake tester comes out clean. Cool slightly before serving.
6. Muffins can keep for up to one week when stored in an airtight container.

**If you enjoyed today's recipe, visit Living the Gourmet for more easy and delightful Autumn treats!