My unending quest to figure out the Panera pumpkin muffin recipe has been ongoing since I worked there, many years ago. I haven’t quite figured it out yet, but I’m closer than I have ever been. The texture on the outside isn’t quite right, but the inside is almost perfect!

Almost Panera Pumpkin Muffins

1 c canned or cooked pumpkin

1 1/2 c flour

1 1/2 c sugar

1 tsp baking powder

1/4 c butter, at room temperature

2 eggs

1/4 c molasses

2 tsp vanilla

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp cinnamon

1/2 tsp nutmeg

1/2 tsp ginger

1/2 tsp cloves

cinnamon sugar to top before baking

powdered sugar to top after baking

Preheat oven to 350°F. Mix all ingredients (except topping) together, blending until smooth, then pour into a large muffin tin. (Makes 6.) Top with cinnamon sugar, then bake 25 minutes. Sprinkle with powdered sugar immediately, then allow to cool before eating.