Spicy Japanese Curry Pumpkin Muffins (Print Version)

Savory pumpkin muffins feature bold Japanese curry spice and mild chili, perfect as a snack or breakfast.

# Components:

→ Vegetables & Puree

01 - 1 1/4 cups pumpkin puree (homemade or canned)
02 - 1/2 cup vegetable oil
03 - 2 large eggs

→ Dairy

04 - 1/2 cup whole milk or plant-based milk

→ Sweeteners

05 - 1/2 cup light brown sugar
06 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar

→ Dry Ingredients

07 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
08 - 2 teaspoons baking powder
09 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
10 - 1/2 teaspoon salt

→ Spices

11 - 1 tablespoon Japanese curry powder
12 - 1/2 teaspoon ground chili
13 - 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
14 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

→ Optional Add-ins

15 - 1/2 cup toasted pumpkin seeds
16 - 1/4 cup raisins or chopped dried apricot

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease lightly.
02 - In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, eggs, milk, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until homogenous and smooth.
03 - In a separate bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, Japanese curry powder, ground chili, ground ginger, and ground cinnamon.
04 - Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, blending just until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain tender texture.
05 - Gently fold in pumpkin seeds and raisins or dried apricot, if desired.
06 - Spoon the batter evenly into muffin cups, filling each approximately three-quarters full. Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center emerges clean.
07 - Allow muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool completely before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Unique fusion of Japanese curry and pumpkin for a bold flavor
  • Quick and easy to prepare for snack or breakfast
02 -
  • Contains eggs, dairy, and gluten
  • Always check labels for allergen sources if adding nuts or using plant-based milk
03 -
  • Use kabocha pumpkin puree for extra depth
  • Adjust the chili to your preferred spice level for a custom kick