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Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Muffins Tasty Fall Treat

by on January 3, 2025

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Fall is the perfect time for warm, comforting treats, and these Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Muffins are a must-try! With a blend of sweet pumpkin puree and rich chocolate chips, these muffins will satisfy your cravings. In this post, I’ll guide you through each step to create these delightful bites, share tips for perfecting your bake, and explore fun variations. Ready to make fall even cozier? Let’s dive in!

To make delicious chocolate chip pumpkin muffins, gather these simple ingredients: - 1 cup canned pumpkin puree - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar - 1/4 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup vegetable oil - 2 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips - 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional) These ingredients mix to create a moist and flavorful muffin. The pumpkin adds a rich texture, while the chocolate chips bring sweetness. If you like a crunch, add pecans for extra flavor. Each ingredient plays a key role in making your muffins a tasty fall treat. {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. 2. Prepare a muffin tin by lining it with paper liners. You can also grease it lightly with cooking spray. This helps the muffins release easily. 3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vegetable oil. Use a whisk to mix these ingredients until smooth. This creates a flavorful base for your muffins. 4. Crack the eggs into the pumpkin mixture. Pour in the vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until it blends well and looks creamy. 5. In a separate bowl, measure out the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together. This ensures they mix evenly. 6. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. This keeps the muffins light and fluffy. 7. Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. If you like, add chopped pecans for extra crunch and flavor. 8. Use a spoon or ice cream scoop to fill each muffin cup about 3/4 full with the batter. This allows the muffins to rise without overflowing. 9. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven. Bake for 18-22 minutes. The muffins are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. 10. After baking, let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. A precise oven temperature is key for great muffins. I always preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking. If you live at a higher altitude, you might need to adjust your baking time. Muffins may rise faster, so check them a few minutes early. Want to boost flavor? Add spices! Consider a pinch of ginger or allspice. You can also swap regular sugar for coconut sugar for a deeper taste. If you want a lighter muffin, try using applesauce instead of oil. This gives moisture without added fat. After cooling, dust your muffins with powdered sugar. This adds a nice touch. You can also serve them on a colorful plate or a rustic wooden board. For fun, place extra chocolate chips on top before serving. It makes them look fancy and tempting. Pro Tips Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your ground spices like cinnamon and nutmeg are fresh for the best flavor. Old spices can lose their potency and affect the overall taste of your muffins. Check Doneness Carefully: Avoid overbaking by checking the muffins a minute or two before the recommended time. A toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, ensuring a moist texture. Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to customize your muffins by adding other mix-ins such as dried cranberries, walnuts, or white chocolate chips for a unique twist. Store Properly: To keep muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage, ensuring they stay moist and delicious. {{image_4}} You can make these muffins healthier. Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This change adds fiber and nutrients. You can also try gluten-free flour if you need that option. For sweeteners, swap white sugar with honey or maple syrup. These natural sweeteners give a rich taste. Get creative with mix-ins! You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch. Try other fruits too, like dried cranberries or blueberries. Different types of chocolate can also change the flavor. Use dark chocolate chips for a richer taste or white chocolate for a sweeter twist. Adjust the pumpkin spice blend to your liking. Add more cinnamon or nutmeg for a stronger flavor. Make your muffins festive! For Halloween, decorate them with spooky designs. Use icing or edible glitter to create fun faces. For Thanksgiving, add toppings like a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts. You can also stuff them with cream cheese for a special treat. These variations let you enjoy the flavors of the season while keeping the recipe fresh! To keep your chocolate chip pumpkin muffins fresh, store them properly. You can store them at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. This method keeps them soft and tasty for a few days. If you live in a humid area, refrigerating them is a smart choice. Wrap the muffins in plastic wrap before placing them in the fridge. This helps prevent them from drying out. Freezing your muffins is a great way to enjoy them later. First, let the muffins cool completely. Then, wrap each one in plastic wrap. After that, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This keeps them fresh for up to three months. When you're ready to eat them, just take one out. Thaw it in the fridge overnight or warm it in the microwave for a few seconds. This method helps maintain their texture and flavor. Chocolate chip pumpkin muffins can last a bit longer with proper storage. At room temperature, they stay good for about 2-3 days. If you refrigerate them, they can last up to a week. When frozen, they can remain tasty for up to three months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. Keeping an eye on their condition ensures you enjoy them at their best! Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned? Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Roast it, scoop out the flesh, and mash it. Use the same amount as the canned pumpkin. This brings a fresh flavor and texture to your muffins. What can I substitute for eggs? You can use applesauce or mashed bananas. Each egg equals 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1/2 a banana. This keeps the muffins moist and adds a hint of sweetness. How can I make these muffins vegan? To make these muffins vegan, use plant-based oil and replace eggs with applesauce or flaxseed. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for five minutes. This creates a great egg substitute. Why are my muffins dense? Dense muffins often come from overmixing the batter. Mix just until combined. Also, check your baking powder and baking soda for freshness. Old leavening agents can lead to flat, heavy muffins. Can I make mini muffins with this recipe? Yes, you can! Just adjust the baking time. Mini muffins typically bake for about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them and check for doneness with a toothpick. How can I adjust the recipe for higher altitude? At higher altitudes, decrease sugar by 1-2 tablespoons. Increase liquid by 1-2 tablespoons and add an extra egg. These changes help the muffins rise better in thinner air. In this post, I walked you through making delicious pumpkin muffins. We covered ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and baking tips. I offered ways to swap ingredients for healthier choices and shared storage pointers to keep your muffins fresh. Now, it’s time to bake. Experiment with flavors, enjoy the process, and savor the results. You’ll create wonderful treats that brighten up any day. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Delicious Flavor Fusion: The combination of pumpkin and chocolate creates a unique and delightful taste that is both comforting and indulgent.
  2. Seasonal Ingredients: This recipe utilizes canned pumpkin, making it easy to enjoy the flavors of fall any time of the year.
  3. Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch of these muffins in under an hour, perfect for busy mornings.
  4. Customizable Options: Add your favorite nuts or spices to personalize the muffins and make them your own!

Ingredients

To make delicious chocolate chip pumpkin muffins, gather these simple ingredients:

– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree

– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

– 1/4 cup granulated sugar

– 1/2 cup vegetable oil

– 2 large eggs

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 teaspoon baking soda

– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

These ingredients mix to create a moist and flavorful muffin. The pumpkin adds a rich texture, while the chocolate chips bring sweetness. If you like a crunch, add pecans for extra flavor. Each ingredient plays a key role in making your muffins a tasty fall treat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking.

2. Prepare a muffin tin by lining it with paper liners. You can also grease it lightly with cooking spray. This helps the muffins release easily.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vegetable oil. Use a whisk to mix these ingredients until smooth. This creates a flavorful base for your muffins.

4. Crack the eggs into the pumpkin mixture. Pour in the vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until it blends well and looks creamy.

Creating the Batter

5. In a separate bowl, measure out the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together. This ensures they mix evenly.

6. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. This keeps the muffins light and fluffy.

7. Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. If you like, add chopped pecans for extra crunch and flavor.

Baking Process

8. Use a spoon or ice cream scoop to fill each muffin cup about 3/4 full with the batter. This allows the muffins to rise without overflowing.

9. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven. Bake for 18-22 minutes. The muffins are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

10. After baking, let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Tricks

Baking Temperature and Time

A precise oven temperature is key for great muffins. I always preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking. If you live at a higher altitude, you might need to adjust your baking time. Muffins may rise faster, so check them a few minutes early.

Texture and Flavor Enhancements

Want to boost flavor? Add spices! Consider a pinch of ginger or allspice. You can also swap regular sugar for coconut sugar for a deeper taste. If you want a lighter muffin, try using applesauce instead of oil. This gives moisture without added fat.

Presentation Enhancements

After cooling, dust your muffins with powdered sugar. This adds a nice touch. You can also serve them on a colorful plate or a rustic wooden board. For fun, place extra chocolate chips on top before serving. It makes them look fancy and tempting.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your ground spices like cinnamon and nutmeg are fresh for the best flavor. Old spices can lose their potency and affect the overall taste of your muffins.
  2. Check Doneness Carefully: Avoid overbaking by checking the muffins a minute or two before the recommended time. A toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, ensuring a moist texture.
  3. Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to customize your muffins by adding other mix-ins such as dried cranberries, walnuts, or white chocolate chips for a unique twist.
  4. Store Properly: To keep muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage, ensuring they stay moist and delicious.

Variations

Healthier Substitutions

You can make these muffins healthier. Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This change adds fiber and nutrients. You can also try gluten-free flour if you need that option. For sweeteners, swap white sugar with honey or maple syrup. These natural sweeteners give a rich taste.

Flavor Variations

Get creative with mix-ins! You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch. Try other fruits too, like dried cranberries or blueberries. Different types of chocolate can also change the flavor. Use dark chocolate chips for a richer taste or white chocolate for a sweeter twist. Adjust the pumpkin spice blend to your liking. Add more cinnamon or nutmeg for a stronger flavor.

Seasonal Variations

Make your muffins festive! For Halloween, decorate them with spooky designs. Use icing or edible glitter to create fun faces. For Thanksgiving, add toppings like a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts. You can also stuff them with cream cheese for a special treat. These variations let you enjoy the flavors of the season while keeping the recipe fresh!

Storage Info

Best Storage Practices

To keep your chocolate chip pumpkin muffins fresh, store them properly. You can store them at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. This method keeps them soft and tasty for a few days. If you live in a humid area, refrigerating them is a smart choice. Wrap the muffins in plastic wrap before placing them in the fridge. This helps prevent them from drying out.

Freezing Muffins

Freezing your muffins is a great way to enjoy them later. First, let the muffins cool completely. Then, wrap each one in plastic wrap. After that, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This keeps them fresh for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat them, just take one out. Thaw it in the fridge overnight or warm it in the microwave for a few seconds. This method helps maintain their texture and flavor.

Shelf Life

Chocolate chip pumpkin muffins can last a bit longer with proper storage. At room temperature, they stay good for about 2-3 days. If you refrigerate them, they can last up to a week. When frozen, they can remain tasty for up to three months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. Keeping an eye on their condition ensures you enjoy them at their best!

FAQs

Common Questions

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Roast it, scoop out the flesh, and mash it. Use the same amount as the canned pumpkin. This brings a fresh flavor and texture to your muffins.

What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use applesauce or mashed bananas. Each egg equals 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1/2 a banana. This keeps the muffins moist and adds a hint of sweetness.

How can I make these muffins vegan?

To make these muffins vegan, use plant-based oil and replace eggs with applesauce or flaxseed. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for five minutes. This creates a great egg substitute.

Baking and Ingredient Questions

Why are my muffins dense?

Dense muffins often come from overmixing the batter. Mix just until combined. Also, check your baking powder and baking soda for freshness. Old leavening agents can lead to flat, heavy muffins.

Can I make mini muffins with this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just adjust the baking time. Mini muffins typically bake for about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them and check for doneness with a toothpick.

How can I adjust the recipe for higher altitude?

At higher altitudes, decrease sugar by 1-2 tablespoons. Increase liquid by 1-2 tablespoons and add an extra egg. These changes help the muffins rise better in thinner air.

In this post, I walked you through making delicious pumpkin muffins. We covered ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and baking tips. I offered ways to swap ingredients for healthier choices and shared storage pointers to keep your muffins fresh.

Now, it’s time to bake. Experiment with flavors, enjoy the process, and savor the results. You’ll create wonderful treats that brighten up any day. Enjoy your baking adventur

To make delicious chocolate chip pumpkin muffins, gather these simple ingredients: - 1 cup canned pumpkin puree - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar - 1/4 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup vegetable oil - 2 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon baking powder - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips - 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional) These ingredients mix to create a moist and flavorful muffin. The pumpkin adds a rich texture, while the chocolate chips bring sweetness. If you like a crunch, add pecans for extra flavor. Each ingredient plays a key role in making your muffins a tasty fall treat. {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. 2. Prepare a muffin tin by lining it with paper liners. You can also grease it lightly with cooking spray. This helps the muffins release easily. 3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vegetable oil. Use a whisk to mix these ingredients until smooth. This creates a flavorful base for your muffins. 4. Crack the eggs into the pumpkin mixture. Pour in the vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until it blends well and looks creamy. 5. In a separate bowl, measure out the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together. This ensures they mix evenly. 6. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the pumpkin mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. This keeps the muffins light and fluffy. 7. Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips. If you like, add chopped pecans for extra crunch and flavor. 8. Use a spoon or ice cream scoop to fill each muffin cup about 3/4 full with the batter. This allows the muffins to rise without overflowing. 9. Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven. Bake for 18-22 minutes. The muffins are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. 10. After baking, let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. A precise oven temperature is key for great muffins. I always preheat my oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking. If you live at a higher altitude, you might need to adjust your baking time. Muffins may rise faster, so check them a few minutes early. Want to boost flavor? Add spices! Consider a pinch of ginger or allspice. You can also swap regular sugar for coconut sugar for a deeper taste. If you want a lighter muffin, try using applesauce instead of oil. This gives moisture without added fat. After cooling, dust your muffins with powdered sugar. This adds a nice touch. You can also serve them on a colorful plate or a rustic wooden board. For fun, place extra chocolate chips on top before serving. It makes them look fancy and tempting. Pro Tips Use Fresh Spices: Ensure your ground spices like cinnamon and nutmeg are fresh for the best flavor. Old spices can lose their potency and affect the overall taste of your muffins. Check Doneness Carefully: Avoid overbaking by checking the muffins a minute or two before the recommended time. A toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, ensuring a moist texture. Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to customize your muffins by adding other mix-ins such as dried cranberries, walnuts, or white chocolate chips for a unique twist. Store Properly: To keep muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage, ensuring they stay moist and delicious. {{image_4}} You can make these muffins healthier. Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This change adds fiber and nutrients. You can also try gluten-free flour if you need that option. For sweeteners, swap white sugar with honey or maple syrup. These natural sweeteners give a rich taste. Get creative with mix-ins! You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch. Try other fruits too, like dried cranberries or blueberries. Different types of chocolate can also change the flavor. Use dark chocolate chips for a richer taste or white chocolate for a sweeter twist. Adjust the pumpkin spice blend to your liking. Add more cinnamon or nutmeg for a stronger flavor. Make your muffins festive! For Halloween, decorate them with spooky designs. Use icing or edible glitter to create fun faces. For Thanksgiving, add toppings like a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts. You can also stuff them with cream cheese for a special treat. These variations let you enjoy the flavors of the season while keeping the recipe fresh! To keep your chocolate chip pumpkin muffins fresh, store them properly. You can store them at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. This method keeps them soft and tasty for a few days. If you live in a humid area, refrigerating them is a smart choice. Wrap the muffins in plastic wrap before placing them in the fridge. This helps prevent them from drying out. Freezing your muffins is a great way to enjoy them later. First, let the muffins cool completely. Then, wrap each one in plastic wrap. After that, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This keeps them fresh for up to three months. When you're ready to eat them, just take one out. Thaw it in the fridge overnight or warm it in the microwave for a few seconds. This method helps maintain their texture and flavor. Chocolate chip pumpkin muffins can last a bit longer with proper storage. At room temperature, they stay good for about 2-3 days. If you refrigerate them, they can last up to a week. When frozen, they can remain tasty for up to three months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. Keeping an eye on their condition ensures you enjoy them at their best! Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned? Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Roast it, scoop out the flesh, and mash it. Use the same amount as the canned pumpkin. This brings a fresh flavor and texture to your muffins. What can I substitute for eggs? You can use applesauce or mashed bananas. Each egg equals 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1/2 a banana. This keeps the muffins moist and adds a hint of sweetness. How can I make these muffins vegan? To make these muffins vegan, use plant-based oil and replace eggs with applesauce or flaxseed. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed with three tablespoons of water and let it sit for five minutes. This creates a great egg substitute. Why are my muffins dense? Dense muffins often come from overmixing the batter. Mix just until combined. Also, check your baking powder and baking soda for freshness. Old leavening agents can lead to flat, heavy muffins. Can I make mini muffins with this recipe? Yes, you can! Just adjust the baking time. Mini muffins typically bake for about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them and check for doneness with a toothpick. How can I adjust the recipe for higher altitude? At higher altitudes, decrease sugar by 1-2 tablespoons. Increase liquid by 1-2 tablespoons and add an extra egg. These changes help the muffins rise better in thinner air. In this post, I walked you through making delicious pumpkin muffins. We covered ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and baking tips. I offered ways to swap ingredients for healthier choices and shared storage pointers to keep your muffins fresh. Now, it’s time to bake. Experiment with flavors, enjoy the process, and savor the results. You’ll create wonderful treats that brighten up any day. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Muffins

Delicious muffins made with pumpkin puree and chocolate chips, perfect for fall.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
  • 0.5 cup packed brown sugar
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 0.25 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, prepare a muffin tin by lining it with paper liners or lightly greasing it with cooking spray.
  • In a substantial mixing bowl, combine the canned pumpkin puree, packed brown sugar, granulated sugar, and vegetable oil. Use a whisk or spoon to mix these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
  • Crack the eggs into the pumpkin mixture and pour in the vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until thoroughly blended and creamy in texture.
  • In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together to ensure they are evenly distributed.
  • Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the pumpkin mixture. Gently stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until the batter is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins dense.
  • Fold in the semi-sweet chocolate chips and, if desired, the chopped pecans. This will add a delightful crunch and additional flavor.
  • Use a spoon or ice cream scoop to fill each muffin cup about 3/4 full with the batter. This allows room for the muffins to rise while baking.
  • Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes. They are finished when a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
  • Once baked, allow the muffins to cool in the pan for approximately 5 minutes. Afterward, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Once cooled, lightly dust the muffins with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. Present them on a rustic wooden platter or a vibrant dotted plate to enhance their festive appeal. For added decoration, try placing a few chocolate chips on top of each muffin before serving.
Keyword chocolate chip, fall baking, muffins, pumpkin

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