It's that time of year again: the pumpkin spice craze!

Unpopular opinion (for now): pumpkin spice is better in baking than it is in coffee. Controversial, we know, but we're convinced this beloved flavor is destined for more than your favorite fall latte. It shines exceptionally well in in baked goods, and we have the recipes to prove it! Whether you're looking for the perfect muffin to start your chilly mornings with or a delightful dessert for the end of a cozy winter meal, these recipes prove that pumpkin spice can add a touch of autumn magic to any sweet treat.

1. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

When busy schedules, school drop offs, and ever-enticing snooze buttons threaten to derail your morning, get your day back on track with these protein-rich pumpkin muffins. Loaded with mini chocolate chips and a generous scoop of pumpkin puree, this nutritious option will satisfy hunger pangs and sweet tooths alike and can turn a hectic morning into autumnal bliss in less than an hour.

2. Pumpkin Spice Scarecrow Cupcakes

Who says the fall fun has to end at the pumpkin patch? These sweetly spiced pumpkin cupcakes keep the harvest party going with sweet cream cheese frosting, warm spices, and an entire can of smooth pumpkin puree. Donning adorable wafer hats and candy corn faces, these scarecrow treats are as delightful to decorate as they are to eat.

3. Pumpkin Spice Creme Brulé

When it's too cold to enjoy a crackling campfire outside, bring dessert indoors with a silky smooth and fall-flavored creme brulée. This take on the classic French dessert features a creamy pumpkin custard made with a pinch of pumpkin spice tucked safely under a crackly caramelized sugar crust.

4. Mini Pumpkin Hand Pies

If you're someone who dreams of fall desserts with more crust than filling, we think you'll love these mini pumpkin hand pies. Each pocket of pumpkiny goodness is stuffed with spiced pie filling and decorated with festive fall colors. With a few kitchen helpers in tow, these adorable treats come together in no time.