Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze! Prep time: 15 minutes.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and salt. Whisking ensures even distribution of the spices and leavening agents.

In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined. Then, whisk in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and pumpkin puree. Make sure everything is smooth and incorporated.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to tough muffins. Mix until the flour streaks disappear.

In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the streusel. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped pecans or walnuts, if using. Insider Hack: For extra flavor, lightly toast the pecans or walnuts before chopping!

Divide the muffin batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. Sprinkle the streusel topping generously over each muffin.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. The tops should be golden brown and the streusel nicely toasted. Cook time: 20-25 minutes.

Let the muffins cool in the muffin tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. This is crucial for preventing soggy bottoms and ensuring even cooling.

While the muffins are cooling, make the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until incorporated, then increase speed and beat until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired frosting consistency.

Once the muffins are completely cool, frost them with the cream cheese frosting using a knife, spatula, or piping bag. Or, for a simpler touch, just dust them with powdered sugar. Serve and enjoy these warm, spiced delights! Total time: Approximately 1 hour (including prep, bake, and cooling).