Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe

If you’ve ever wished you could enjoy the coziness of classic coffee cake in a fun, portable form, these Coffee Cake Muffins are everything you’re dreaming of and more. With sweet cinnamon streusel layers, a moist tender crumb, and a light vanilla glaze, this recipe takes all the comfort of a coffeehouse favorite and tucks it neatly into individual servings. Prepare for your kitchen to smell irresistible and your mornings to feel extra special—one bite and these Coffee Cake Muffins will have you hooked from the very start.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of pantry basics to whip up a batch of these muffins, but each ingredient brings its own magic. From the richness of sour cream to the warm kick of cinnamon, every item plays a starring role in crafting the flavors and textures that make these Coffee Cake Muffins unforgettable.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation for both batter and streusel, giving structure and that classic crumbly bite.
• Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a lovely caramel note to both the topping and muffins themselves.
• Ground cinnamon: Delivers that signature coffee cake warmth and cozy aroma.
• Unsalted butter (cold and cubed): Creates a perfectly crumbly streusel with rich flavor.
• Unsalted butter (softened): Blends smoothly into the batter for muffins that are tender and moist.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and creates that classic golden exterior.
• Eggs: Essential for fluffiness and structure—bring them to room temperature for best results.
• Sour cream: The secret to ultra-moist, tangy muffins; Greek yogurt also works beautifully.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a delicious depth and coziness throughout the muffins and glaze.
• Baking powder & baking soda: These work together to give the muffins their lovely lift and lightness.
• Salt: Brightens up all the sweet and spicy flavors.
• Milk: Keeps the muffin batter soft and pliable, and is also used in the glaze.
• Powdered sugar: Perfect for creating that sweet, simple muffin-top drizzle.

How to Make Coffee Cake Muffins

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Muffin Tin

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F, then line a standard 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. This makes for super easy cleanup and ensures each muffin comes out with a picture-perfect edge. The right temperature and setup start you off on the right (and delicious) foot.

Step 2: Make the Streusel Topping

In a small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon for the streusel. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a fork or pastry cutter to blend everything together until you have a chunky, crumbly mixture. This magical mixture will create those irresistible layers and a crunchy muffin crown.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Grab a large mixing bowl and cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Use a hand mixer or whisk for best results—this step builds air into the batter, promising irresistibly tender Coffee Cake Muffins.

Step 4: Add Eggs, Sour Cream, and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is well incorporated. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until the batter is smooth and creamy. These ingredients add richness and tang, setting the stage for ultra-moist muffins with a flavor that lingers.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture in the large bowl, alternating with milk. Stir just until combined—no need to overmix! The result will be a thick, luscious batter ready to be transformed.

Step 6: Layer the Muffin Batter and Streusel

Fill each muffin cup halfway with batter, then sprinkle a generous spoonful of streusel over the tops. Add the remaining batter to each cup, finishing with more streusel. This layering technique guarantees every bite of your Coffee Cake Muffins boasts a cinnamony, buttery surprise.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the muffin tin into the oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a muffin—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Glaze and Enjoy (Optional)

If you love that classic sweet finish, mix the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled muffins. The glaze adds a lovely sheen and a delicious pop of sweetness—pure muffin bliss!

How to Serve Coffee Cake Muffins

Coffee Cake Muffins Garnishes

For a beautiful finishing touch, sprinkle your muffins with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of vanilla glaze, or a scattering of finely chopped nuts. If you’re feeling extra fancy, a pinch of cinnamon or a twist of lemon zest perks up both the look and flavor, making your Coffee Cake Muffins truly irresistible.

Side Dishes

While these muffins are delightful on their own, they also pair wonderfully with a creamy yogurt parfait, fresh berries, or sliced citrus fruits. If you’re serving up a brunch spread, add scrambled eggs or a simple frittata on the side for a balanced, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the muffins on a rustic cake stand or arrange them in a linen-lined basket for a café-style vibe. For entertaining, wrap each Coffee Cake Muffin in parchment with a twine bow, or serve them on individual plates with a tiny jar of jam or clotted cream. Their homey charm shines in any setting!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Coffee Cake Muffins fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want them to last a little longer, pop them in the fridge for up to five days—just let them come to room temp or warm them briefly before enjoying.

Freezing

These muffins freeze beautifully! Arrange cooled muffins in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to two months—just remember to add the glaze after thawing for the best texture. Thaw muffins at room temperature overnight or gently reheat in the microwave.

Reheating

Bring leftover Coffee Cake Muffins back to life with a quick zap in the microwave (10 to 15 seconds does the trick) or warm them in a low oven for a few minutes. If you’ve added glaze, reheating gently is key to keeping it perfectly drizzly and delicious.

FAQs

Can I make Coffee Cake Muffins gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour. Be aware that the texture may be a little different, but the flavor and classic cinnamon swirl will still shine.

Is there a way to reduce the sugar in this recipe?

You can slightly reduce the sugars in both the batter and streusel without losing all the sweetness. Try cutting each sugar by about one-third, but keep in mind that the amazing caramel flavor and moistness may be a touch milder.

Can I add fruit or nuts to Coffee Cake Muffins?

Sure! Fold finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the streusel or sprinkle them on top for added crunch. Berries such as blueberries or diced apples can be gently mixed into the batter for fruity variation.

Are these muffins suitable for making ahead for brunch gatherings?

Definitely—they’re a crowd-pleaser and hold up well overnight. You can bake them the day before and glaze them just before serving for the freshest look and flavor at your brunch table.

What’s the best way to get a crumbly streusel topping?

Use very cold, cubed butter, and mix gently until the streusel resembles coarse crumbs. Avoid overworking it so you’ll get those heavenly pockets of buttery crunch on every muffin top.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re sharing them with friends over coffee or sneaking one for an afternoon treat, these Coffee Cake Muffins are simply impossible to resist. Give them a try and see how a handful of basic ingredients transforms into bakery-style magic right in your own kitchen!

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