Coffee Cake Muffins

These Coffee Cake Muffins transform the classic cinnamon coffee cake into big, buttery muffins. Each muffin is topped with a crunchy streusel and a drizzle of glaze, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients

For the Streusel Topping:

  • 1/3 cup (67g) granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup (67g) packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 3/4 cups (218g) all-purpose flour

For the Muffins:

  • 2 1/2 cups (312g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup (240ml) sour cream, at room temperature
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) milk, at room temperature

For the Glaze:

  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

  1. Prepare the Streusel Topping: In a medium bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the melted butter and stir until combined. Mix in the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside.

  2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease with non-stick spray.

  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

  4. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

  5. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.

  6. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: With the mixer on low speed, add half of the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, followed by the sour cream and milk, then the remaining dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

  7. Assemble Muffins: Spoon a tablespoon of batter into each muffin cup. Sprinkle a small amount of streusel over the batter. Divide the remaining batter among the muffin cups, filling each about 3/4 full. Top with the remaining streusel, pressing it gently into the batter.

  8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. Allow muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

  9. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled muffins.

Nutrients

  • Calories: 500 kcal
  • Total Fat: 24g
    • Saturated Fat: 14g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
  • Sodium: 220mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 65g
    • Dietary Fiber: 1g
    • Sugars: 40g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Calcium: 80mg
  • Iron: 2mg
  • Potassium: 150mg

The Appeal of Coffee Cake Muffins

Coffee Cake Muffins offer all the delicious flavors of traditional coffee cake in a convenient, portable form. These muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, featuring a tender crumb, a rich cinnamon streusel topping, and a sweet vanilla glaze. Their combination of buttery texture and warm spices makes them an irresistible treat for any occasion.

The Secret to a Moist and Tender Muffin

Achieving the perfect texture for these muffins requires balancing ingredients correctly. The use of sour cream in the batter contributes to their moistness and tenderness, preventing them from drying out. Sour cream adds a subtle tang that complements the sweetness of the streusel and glaze. Additionally, using both baking soda and baking powder ensures the muffins rise properly, creating a light and fluffy texture.

The Importance of Streusel Topping

The highlight of these muffins is undoubtedly the crumbly, buttery streusel topping. Made with a combination of sugar, butter, flour, and cinnamon, the streusel adds a crispy, flavorful layer that enhances the overall experience. The contrast between the soft muffin base and the crunchy topping creates a delightful texture that sets these muffins apart from regular baked goods.

Why These Muffins Stand Out

What makes these muffins unique is their ability to bring the comforting taste of classic coffee cake into a more accessible and individual portion. Unlike a full-sized coffee cake that requires slicing and serving, these muffins can be enjoyed on the go. The addition of a light glaze not only enhances their sweetness but also adds a touch of elegance, making them look as good as they taste.

Perfect Occasions for Coffee Cake Muffins

These muffins are versatile and can be enjoyed at various events and gatherings:

  • Breakfast and Brunch: Pair them with coffee or tea for a perfect morning treat.
  • Afternoon Snack: A great pick-me-up during a long day.
  • Holiday Gatherings: A wonderful addition to a festive breakfast spread.
  • Gift Idea: Pack them in a box and share them with friends and family.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

To keep the muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need them to last longer, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back their softness. For those who love to plan ahead, the muffin batter can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The streusel can also be prepared beforehand and kept in an airtight container until needed.

Variations and Customizations

While the classic recipe is delicious on its own, there are a few variations to try:

  • Nutty Streusel: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel for added crunch.
  • Fruit Addition: Mix in diced apples or blueberries for a fruity twist.
  • Spice Boost: Enhance the warm flavors by adding nutmeg or cardamom to the batter.
  • Chocolate Drizzle: Swap out the glaze for melted chocolate for a richer treat.

Conclusion

Coffee Cake Muffins are the perfect fusion of convenience and indulgence. Their soft, moist texture, combined with a crunchy streusel and sweet glaze, makes them a favorite among muffin lovers. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored for later, these muffins offer a comforting and flavorful experience in every bite. Perfect for any occasion, they bring the classic taste of coffee cake into a delightful, handheld treat.

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