Save Decadent, bite-sized muffin balls featuring flaky layers, spiced pumpkin, rich maple syrup, and a hint of bourbon are perfect for fall gatherings or a unique dessert treat. These Maple Bourbon Flaky Pumpkin Muffin Balls bring cozy flavors and elegant presentation for anyone looking to impress guests.
One chilly afternoon I surprised my family with these muffin balls fresh out of the oven. They melted instantly into the buttery layers and spiced pumpkin filling, turning a simple moment into something delightfully special.
Ingredients
- Muffin Dough: 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/4 tsp ground ginger, 1/2 cup (113 g) cold unsalted butter (cubed), 1 cup (240 g) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling), 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup (60 ml) pure maple syrup, 2 tbsp (30 ml) bourbon, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Flaky Layer Coating: 1 sheet (about 225 g) ready-made puff pastry (thawed), 2 tbsp (30 g) melted butter
- Maple Bourbon Glaze: 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar, 2 tbsp (30 ml) pure maple syrup, 1 tbsp (15 ml) bourbon, 1–2 tbsp (15–30 ml) milk (as needed)
Instructions
- Prep the oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- Cut in butter:
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Mix wet ingredients:
- In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, eggs, maple syrup, bourbon, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine:
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined (do not overmix).
- Shape balls:
- Roll small balls (about 2 tablespoons each) of the muffin dough.
- Wrap and coat:
- Cut the puff pastry into strips. Wrap each dough ball with a strip of puff pastry, overlapping slightly, to create a flaky exterior. Brush each wrapped ball lightly with melted butter.
- Bake:
- Place balls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced at least 1 inch apart. Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
- Make glaze:
- While baking, prepare the glaze: whisk powdered sugar, maple syrup, bourbon, and enough milk to reach a thick but pourable consistency.
- Finish and serve:
- Remove muffin balls from oven and let cool 5 minutes. Drizzle or dip in maple bourbon glaze before serving.
Save We love to gather around the kitchen table as the aroma of maple and spice fills the air, passing warm muffin balls from hand to hand. These treats bring smiles every time, perfect for sharing on crisp autumn weekends.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, pastry cutter or fork, baking sheet, parchment paper, pastry brush, whisk
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), eggs, milk (dairy). May contain traces of tree nuts if added. Always check puff pastry packaging for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 185, Total Fat: 8 g, Carbohydrates: 26 g, Protein: 3 g
Save Serve these muffin balls warm for the very best flavor and texture. Leftovers reheat deliciously for a next-day treat.
Recipe Guide
- → How do you achieve flaky layers?
Wrapping the dough balls in strips of puff pastry before baking creates a crisp, flaky exterior.
- → Can I make these muffin balls alcohol-free?
Yes, simply omit the bourbon and replace with extra vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version.
- → What is the best way to serve them?
Enjoy warm for the best texture and flavor. Briefly reheat if serving later.
- → Can I add nuts for crunch?
Chopped pecans or walnuts can be folded into the dough for added texture and flavor.
- → Are there any ingredient substitutions?
Feel free to use plant-based butter for a vegetarian twist or adapt spices to taste.
- → Is store-bought puff pastry suitable?
Yes, ready-made puff pastry works perfectly for easy preparation and flaky layers.