pumpkin heaven

When pumpkins think about what they want to be when they grow up, they all want to become one of these glorious muffins. Seriously, one of the yummiest things on earth!

What makes them so special is the brown sugar frosting. They are more like decadent cupcakes. Of course, they are even better when they are warm and slathered with butter!

My mom is the one who first made these for me, so I'm not sure where the recipe originated. The ingredients are pretty rich, so I've taken steps to lighten it up slightly and don't miss the extra fat and sugar at all.

I know I'm too late with this for you to have them on Thanksgiving morning like we did, but they are perfect any morning and would make a wonderful breakfast for Christmas morning!

Pumpkin Spice Muffins
3 c. sugar (I only use 1 cup)
1 c. shortening (I substitute with 1/2 c. shortening + 1/2 c. applesauce or extra pumpkin)
3 eggs
1 can (15oz) pumpkin
3 c. flour
1 t. baking soda
2 t. baking powder
1 t. ground cloves
1 t. nutmeg
1 t. cinnamon
1 t. allspice
1 t. vanilla

Brown Sugar Glaze
1/2 c. brown sugar
2 T. melted butter, cooled
1 T. milk
1 c. powdered sugar
pecan halves for garnish

Cream sugar and shortening; add eggs and pumpkin. Stir in dry ingredients. Add vanilla. Bake in greased and floured muffin pans (or use paper liners) for 15-20 minutes at 350.

For the glaze, cream brown sugar and butter. Add powdered sugar, then milk. Spread over top of each muffin, then place pecan half on each.

Yields 24 muffins

Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving!