Maple Bourbon Flaky Pumpkin Muffin Balls

Decadent, bite-sized muffin balls featuring flaky layers, spiced pumpkin, rich maple syrup, and a hint of bourbon are perfect for fall gatherings or as a unique dessert treat. These Maple Bourbon Flaky Pumpkin Muffin Balls are a delightful twist on classic pumpkin muffins, crafted to impress with every flaky bite.

I first made these pumpkin muffin balls for a cozy family get-together, and they quickly became the star of the table. The combination of maple, bourbon, and buttery pastry layers is both festive and indulgent, making this recipe a new seasonal favorite in our home.

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 Oven & Sheet:

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.

Blend Wet Ingredients:

In another bowl, mix pumpkin puree, eggs, maple syrup, bourbon, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Dough:

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined. Do not overmix.

Shape Muffin Balls:

Roll small balls (about 2 tablespoons each) of the muffin dough.

Wrap with Puff Pastry:

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.

Arrange on Sheet:

Place balls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced at least 1 inch apart.

Bake:

Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until golden and puffed.

Prepare Glaze:

While baking, prepare the glaze: whisk powdered sugar, maple syrup, bourbon, and enough milk to reach a thick but pourable consistency.

Finish:

Remove muffin balls from oven and let cool 5 minutes. Drizzle or dip in maple bourbon glaze before serving.

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When I bring out these muffin balls for brunch, my kids love helping with the puff pastry wrapping and glaze drizzling. It's a fun family baking project that always ends with sticky fingers and big smiles.

Required Tools

Mixing bowls, pastry cutter or fork, baking sheet, parchment paper, pastry brush, whisk

Allergen Information

Contains wheat (gluten), eggs, milk (dairy), and may contain traces of tree nuts if added. Always check puff pastry packaging for potential allergens.

Nutritional Information

Per serving: 185 calories, 8 g total fat, 26 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein

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Serve these muffin balls fresh and warm for the best flavor and texture. The maple bourbon glaze elevates every crumb and guarantees smiles at any fall get-together.

Recipe Guide

→ How do I wrap the dough with puff pastry?

After forming dough balls, wrap each with a strip of puff pastry, slightly overlapping the strips, to ensure a flaky exterior.

→ Can I substitute bourbon with something else?

Omit bourbon for a non-alcoholic version and add an extra teaspoon of vanilla extract for flavor depth.

→ Is pumpkin puree different from pumpkin pie filling?

Use plain pumpkin puree—pumpkin pie filling contains added spices and sugar which can alter taste and texture.

→ What nuts work well in this treat?

Chopped pecans or walnuts work well, adding extra crunch and nutty flavor to the muffin balls.

→ How should I store leftover muffin balls?

Store cooled muffin balls in an airtight container. Reheat briefly before serving to enjoy optimal flakiness.

→ Is this dessert suitable for vegetarians?

This treat is vegetarian-friendly, provided all ingredients, including puff pastry, are free from animal fats.