If you have a soft spot for sweet, tender breakfast treats with a delightful crumbly top, you are going to fall head over heels for this Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe. These muffins combine the tender crumb of coffee cake with the portable, single-serving charm of a muffin, making them perfect for busy mornings or cozy weekend brunches. Each bite offers a buttery, cinnamon-spiced streusel topping that contrasts beautifully with the moist, lightly tangy muffin inside. Making this Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe is an absolute joy, guaranteed to fill your kitchen with that warm, inviting aroma we all crave.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe calls for some wonderfully simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Each one is essential, playing a special role to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures—from the buttery richness to the gentle tang of sour cream and the sweet, cinnamon-laced streusel. Let’s dive into what you’ll gather before baking these beauties.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure to the muffins, ensuring they’re tender but sturdy.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the muffins rise beautifully for that perfect fluffy texture.
- ½ tsp baking soda: Works with the sour cream to lighten and soften the crumb.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances and enhances the sweetness and overall flavor.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture for buttery muffins.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter without overpowering the subtle flavors.
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed: Offers a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to the muffin’s tender crumb.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warmth and a lovely aroma foundational to any coffee cake.
- 1 cup sour cream: Keeps the muffins moist with a subtle tang that balances the sweet topping.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for crumb): Combines with brown sugar and cinnamon for that iconic streusel topping.
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed (for crumb): Sweetens the crumb topping with rich notes.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Infuses the crumb with its signature warm spice.
- ¼ tsp salt (for crumb): Sharpens and balances the sweet topping.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (for crumb): Binds the crumb topping into large, buttery clusters.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For making the optional glaze, adding a sweet finishing touch.
- 2–3 tbsp milk: Adjusts the glaze to the perfect drizzle consistency.
- ½ tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the glaze with fragrant sweetness.
How to Make Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Get started by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preparing your muffin tin ahead by lining it with paper liners or giving it a good grease ensures easy removal and clean-up after baking.
Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping
In a medium bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt, giving it a good stir to blend all those lovely spices and sweetness. Pour in the melted butter and mix gently until you see large, buttery crumbs forming. Set this mixture aside—it’s going to be the crowning glory of your Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe.
Step 3: Prepare the Muffin Batter
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in one bowl to keep the leavening evenly distributed. In a larger bowl, cream together the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy—that’s the secret to light-as-air muffins. Add the eggs one by one, mixing thoroughly after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually mix in the flour mixture alternated with the sour cream, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want tender, not tough.
Step 4: Assemble the Muffins
Fill your muffin cups about two-thirds full with the batter. Then generously top each with the crumb mixture, pressing it lightly to help it stick and bake into that irresistible streusel crunch.
Step 5: Bake the Muffins
Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Once baked, allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack—this helps them set perfectly without turning soggy.
Step 6: Optional Glaze
For a little extra indulgence, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth, adjusting the milk for desired drizzling consistency. Drizzle the glaze over cooled muffins for a shiny, sweet finish that’s just irresistible.
How to Serve Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar can add visual appeal and a touch of sweetness. You might also sprinkle some finely chopped nuts on top after baking for an extra crunch. Fresh berries on the side can add a burst of color and a refreshing contrast, but honestly, these muffins are stunning on their own.
Side Dishes
Complement your Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea, which perfectly balances the sweetness of the muffins. For a heartier meal, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or a dollop of Greek yogurt to add creaminess and brighten up the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking beyond the usual? Serve your muffins stacked in a cute tiered stand for brunch guests, or wrap each one in parchment with a ribbon for a charming gift. You can even slice one horizontally and fill it with cream cheese frosting for a fancy twist that feels like a mini dessert on its own.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps them moist and fresh, although the crumb topping might soften a bit, it’s still delicious.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these muffins later, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently warm before serving for that fresh-baked feel.
Reheating
To bring back their just-baked warmth, heat the muffins in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds or pop them in a 300°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This revives the tenderness inside and re-crisps the crumb topping delightfully.
FAQs
Can I substitute sour cream in this Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe?
Yes! Greek yogurt or buttermilk can be substituted for sour cream in equal parts, adding moisture and tanginess while maintaining the tender crumb.
Can I make these muffins dairy-free?
Absolutely. Use dairy-free butter alternatives and substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
Is it necessary to add the crumb topping?
The crumb topping is what transforms these muffins into that classic coffee cake experience. While you can skip it, you’ll miss out on the delightful cinnamon-sugar crunch that makes this Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe so special.
How do I know when the muffins are done?
Use a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center; when it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your muffins are perfectly baked.
Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?
Yes, doubling the ingredients and baking in multiple muffin tins or batches works great. Just be sure your oven temperature stays consistent for even baking.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly satisfying about homemade baked goods, and this Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe is a shining example. It’s easy to make, rich in flavor, and perfect for sharing with friends and family or keeping all to yourself. So go ahead, bake a batch and savor every buttery, cinnamon-kissed crumb—you deserve it!
Print
Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins 1x
Description
Delight in these moist and tender Coffee Cake Muffins, featuring a perfectly crumbly cinnamon streusel topping. With a luscious sour cream-based batter and an optional sweet glaze, these muffins bring the classic coffee cake experience into a convenient, individual-sized treat perfect for breakfast or snack time.
Ingredients
Muffin Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sour cream
Crumb Topping
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Optional Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it well to prevent sticking.
- Make the Crumb Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour in the melted butter and stir until large crumbs form. Set the crumb topping aside.
- Prepare the Muffin Batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry flour mixture alternating with the sour cream, mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing.
- Assemble the Muffins: Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Generously sprinkle the crumb topping over each muffin, pressing it lightly to adhere.
- Bake the Muffins: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. Once baked, let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare and Drizzle the Optional Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled muffins just before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to ensure tender muffins.
- The crumb topping can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- If you prefer, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier flavor.
- The glaze is optional but adds a lovely sweetness and presentation.
- Use room temperature ingredients for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
