Cake Mix Pumpkin Muffins
These easy 3-ingredient pumpkin muffins are a simple fall treat made with spice cake mix and pumpkin purée, then topped with a sprinkle of brown sugar. They come together in minutes and are perfect with a hot cup of coffee!

Two of my favorite things? Any recipe I can make with cake mix and a good cup of coffee.
These 3-ingredient pumpkin muffins are one of those easy fall recipes you can throw together when you're craving something homemade without spending much time in the kitchen. The spice cake mix gives them plenty of warm fall flavor, while pumpkin purée keeps the muffins soft and moist.
I love serving these warm with a cup of Lifeboost Coffee. Their coffee is USDA Organic, tested for toxins, low acid, and comes in so many different flavors, so there are plenty of options depending on what you like in your coffee.
Whether you're making these for a quick breakfast, afternoon treat, or just because you have a box of cake mix in the pantry, these pumpkin muffins are an easy one to keep in your back pocket.
📝 Ingredients
- 1 box spice cake mix
- 1 15oz can pumpkin purée
- Brown sugar, for topping
👩🍳 Directions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- 2
Line a muffin tin with muffin liners.
- 3
Add the spice cake mix and pumpkin purée to a large bowl. Mix until well combined.
- 4
Use an ice cream scoop to divide the batter between 8–10 muffin cups.
- 5
Sprinkle the tops with brown sugar and lightly press it into the batter.
- 6
Bake for 18–23 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the muffins are cooked through.
- 7
Let the muffins cool for a few minutes before serving.
💡 Tips for Success
- Use pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie filling: Pumpkin purée is all you need for this recipe. Pumpkin pie filling already contains added sugar and spices.
- Don't overfill the muffin cups: These muffins rise as they bake, so filling each cup about ¾ full works well.
- Make them your own: Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans, chocolate chips, or a little extra cinnamon if you want to change them up.
- Serve them warm: These are especially good slightly warm with a cup of coffee.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin purée?
I recommend sticking with pumpkin purée. Pumpkin pie filling contains additional ingredients and can change the texture and sweetness of the muffins.
How many muffins does this recipe make?
This recipe makes about 8–10 muffins, depending on how full you fill each muffin cup.
How do I know when the muffins are done?
The edges should be lightly golden and the muffins should look set in the center. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean.
Can I add anything to the muffins?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, chocolate chips, or a sprinkle of cinnamon would all be delicious additions.
What should I serve with pumpkin muffins?
A hot cup of coffee is my favorite pairing. These are especially good for an easy fall breakfast or afternoon snack.
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Made this recipe?
Tag me on Instagram @holleyinthekitchen — I'd love to see it!Recipe from Holley in the Kitchen: https://holleyinthekitchen.com/recipe/cake-mix-pumpkin-muffins

