Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe

If you’re craving a sweet, tender treat with that perfect crumbly topping, these Coffee Cake Muffins are going to change your mornings forever. Imagine biting into a soft, moist muffin infused with cinnamon and sugar, crowned with a buttery, crumbly streusel that adds the ultimate texture contrast. Whether you’re enjoying them with your morning coffee or sharing with friends at brunch, Coffee Cake Muffins combine simple ingredients into a delightfully cozy and irresistible indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients is all you need to whip up Coffee Cake Muffins that feel like a warm hug baked into a treat. Every component plays a role—from the creamy sour cream that keeps the muffins moist to the cinnamon that sprinkles just the right amount of spice and warmth.

• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The foundation for tender, fluffy muffins with just the right crumb.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness that balances perfectly with the cinnamon’s spice.
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon: Gives the muffins their iconic warm, aromatic flavor.
• 7 tablespoons unsalted butter (cubed): Keeps the streusel topping rich and crumbly for that essential crunch.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and help create a soft, delicate texture.
• ½ cup sour cream: For that luscious moisture, ensuring each muffin stays fresh and tender.
• For streusel topping – ½ cup brown sugar: Deep, caramel notes that perfectly complement the cinnamon.
• For streusel topping – 2 teaspoons cinnamon: Intensifies the warm spice flavor in the crunchiest part of the muffin.

How to Make Coffee Cake Muffins

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Muffin Tin

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F so it’s ready once the batter is mixed. Line your muffin pan with paper liners; this helps the muffins bake evenly and makes cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Create the Streusel Topping

Mix together brown sugar, cinnamon, and cubed butter in a bowl. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, crumble this mixture until you see small, sandy lumps—this is your golden, crunchy topping waiting to go on top of every muffin.

Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients Until Smooth

In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and sour cream together until they’re fully combined, smooth, and creamy. This mixture will give your muffins that melt-in-your-mouth softness.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix with Wet

In another bowl, stir together flour, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Then, gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until everything is just blended. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine and keep the muffins tender.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Liners and Add Streusel

Divide the batter evenly into your muffin liners, filling each about two-thirds full. Then sprinkle a generous amount of the streusel topping over each muffin—this will bake into a deliciously crisp crown.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Perfect

Pop your muffin pan into the oven and bake for about 18 minutes or until the tops turn a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool slightly before digging in.

How to Serve Coffee Cake Muffins

Garnishes

While the streusel topping adds plenty of texture and sweetness, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of vanilla glaze can turn your Coffee Cake Muffins into a stunning treat that’s almost too pretty to eat—but only almost!

Side Dishes

Pair these muffins with fresh fruit like berries or a tangy citrus salad to balance the sweetness. A cup of your favorite coffee or tea makes the perfect companion and brings out those cozy cinnamon notes even more.

Creative Ways to Present

For brunch, serve Coffee Cake Muffins alongside a spread of cream cheese and homemade jam. Or cut them in half, toast lightly, and top with honey butter for an unexpected twist that’s sure to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Coffee Cake Muffins fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps retain their moist crumb and crisp topping without drying out.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these muffins later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to two months, making for a quick breakfast or snack anytime.

Reheating

When you’re ready to eat frozen muffins, thaw them at room temperature or warm them gently in the oven or microwave. A few seconds will revive the softness and bring back that freshly baked goodness like magic.

FAQs

Can I substitute the sour cream with something else?

Yes! Greek yogurt or buttermilk works great as a substitute and will keep your Coffee Cake Muffins moist and tender without changing the flavor much.

Can I make these muffins dairy-free?

Absolutely. Use a plant-based yogurt and a dairy-free butter alternative for the streusel. The muffins will still be delicious and just as crumbly.

How do I prevent the streusel topping from sinking?

Make sure your streusel topping is crumbly and not too wet before adding it on top. Also, avoid overfilling the muffin liners so the topping can bake on top rather than sinking inside.

Can I add nuts or fruit to the batter?

Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or fresh blueberries complement Coffee Cake Muffins beautifully. Add about ½ cup of your choice, folded gently into the batter before baking.

What’s the best way to ensure muffins bake evenly?

Use room temperature ingredients and don’t overmix the batter. Also, placing the muffin pan in the center of the oven allows for the most even heating for perfectly cooked muffins every time.

Final Thoughts

These Coffee Cake Muffins have quickly become a personal favorite because they’re just so cozy and comforting, yet surprisingly quick and easy to make. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a special breakfast pick-me-up, these muffins deliver that perfect balance of soft, tender crumb and crumbly topping that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give this recipe a try, and I promise your kitchen will fill with wonderful aromas that make mornings something to genuinely look forward to.

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