Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe

If you crave a coffee shop treat that combines the cozy flavors of cinnamon, brown sugar, and buttery crumb in each bite, then Coffee Cake Muffins are your dream come true. These muffins turn everything you love about traditional coffee cake into a portable, shareable delight—perfect for breakfast, a quick snack, or pairing with your favorite hot beverage. Soft, moist, and bursting with cinnamon swirl, topped by a crunchy streusel and a delicate vanilla glaze (if you please), this recipe brings comfort and homemade joy to any table.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in these Coffee Cake Muffins has a special role: from creating a light, tender crumb to delivering those signature ribbons of spice and sweetness. You’ll find nothing fancy here, just everyday pantry staples coming together for a morning masterpiece.

• All-purpose flour (1¾ cups for muffins, ½ cup for streusel): Provides structure and softness to both the muffin base and crumbly topping.
• Granulated sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the muffins without overpowering the cinnamon warmth.
• Light brown sugar (¼ cup for muffins, ½ cup for streusel): Adds caramel notes and keeps the muffins moist; also gives the streusel its irresistible richness.
• Baking powder (2 teaspoons): Helps the muffins rise to fluffy perfection.
• Baking soda (½ teaspoon): Works with sour cream to create a tender texture.
• Salt (½ teaspoon for muffins, ¼ teaspoon for streusel): Brightens and balances all the flavors.
• Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon for muffins, 1 teaspoon for streusel): The soul of any coffee cake, delivering cozy spice in every bite.
• Sour cream (⅔ cup): Adds tang and moisture; Greek yogurt is a great substitute if needed.
• Whole milk (½ cup): Perfects the muffin’s crumb and ensures softness.
• Eggs (2 large): Binds the batter and helps the muffins rise beautifully.
• Unsalted butter (½ cup for muffins, 4 tbsp for streusel): Makes the crumb tender and the streusel crispy.
• Vanilla extract (1½ teaspoons for muffins, ½ teaspoon for glaze): Enhances the flavors with a warm, fragrant note.
• Powdered sugar (½ cup, optional glaze): For a sweet, delicate finish drizzled on top.
• Milk (1–2 tablespoons for glaze): Loosens up the glaze to the perfect consistency.

How to Make Coffee Cake Muffins

Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Topping

Start by whisking together the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture turns into buttery, crumbly clumps—think of it as the crowning glory that gives each muffin its signature crunch. Set it aside as you work your muffin magic.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Give them a good whisk so the baking powder and soda get evenly distributed (no one wants unevenly risen muffins!). These dry ingredients are the building blocks of tender, flavorful muffins.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

Grab another bowl to whisk together the sour cream, whole milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Aim for a smooth, creamy mixture—this combo promises rich, moist muffins every time, thanks to the magic of sour cream and butter.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold everything together. Stop as soon as no dry spots remain. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins, so it’s perfectly fine if the batter looks a bit lumpy—this is your secret to getting super soft Coffee Cake Muffins.

Step 5: Fill, Top, and Bake

Spoon the muffin batter evenly into your prepared muffin tin, filling each about three-quarters full. The fun part: generously sprinkle that glorious streusel topping onto each one, making sure every muffin gets a buttery, crumbly crown. Slide the pan into your preheated 375°F oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the tops are golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Glaze

Let the muffins cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. If you’re making the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, vanilla, and a splash or two of milk. Drizzle it over the cooled muffins for a café-style finish that takes these Coffee Cake Muffins over the top.

How to Serve Coffee Cake Muffins

Garnishes

Try a light dusting of powdered sugar just before serving to highlight the crumbly tops, or drizzle with the optional vanilla glaze for bakery-style flair. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a few chopped nuts add extra texture and can be a fun finishing touch.

Side Dishes

A fresh fruit salad, tangy Greek yogurt, or a steaming mug of coffee or tea pairs beautifully with Coffee Cake Muffins. For brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a veggie frittata for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Showcase your muffins nestled in a rustic basket lined with a linen towel, or stack them on a tiered dessert stand for a brunch buffet. For gifting, wrap each in parchment and colorful twine, or place in a pretty bakery box—so inviting and special for friends or coworkers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Coffee Cake Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They’ll stay fresh and moist, thanks to the sour cream, and make for the best quick breakfast or afternoon snack.

Freezing

Once completely cooled, wrap the muffins tightly in plastic wrap or place them in freezer-safe bags. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months—just label with the date so they don’t get lost in the freezer shuffle!

Reheating

To enjoy that fresh-from-the-oven vibe, pop a muffin in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or reheat in a low oven until just warmed through. If they’re frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature, then warm gently before serving.

FAQs

Can I substitute the sour cream with something else?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt makes an excellent swap for sour cream in Coffee Cake Muffins. It gives the same moisture and tang while keeping the tender crumb you love.

Why did my streusel sink into the batter?

If your streusel disappears into your muffins, the batter may have been too thin, or the streusel too fine. Try letting your batter sit for a minute or two before topping and use clumpy, coarse crumbs for best results.

Can I add fruit or nuts?

Definitely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even a handful of blueberries work beautifully in Coffee Cake Muffins. Just toss any add-ins lightly with flour before folding them into the batter to avoid sinking.

How do I know when the muffins are done?

The best test is to insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, they’re done. The tops should be golden and a bit springy to the touch.

Is the glaze necessary?

The glaze is totally optional but adds an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal. The muffins are delicious on their own, but if you want extra wow-factor, a quick drizzle does the trick!

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking an easy way to bring a little bakery magic into your kitchen, these Coffee Cake Muffins are just the ticket. Treat yourself and your loved ones to these irresistible, crumb-topped delights—you’ll be amazed how quickly they disappear!

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