Every bite of these Coffee Cake Muffins feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning. The delightful blend of cinnamon and sweetness takes me back to countless cozy brunches, where homemade treats take center stage. Perfectly moist and tender, these muffins come with a delightful streusel topping—that’s the cherry on top! Whether you’re whipping them up for breakfast, brunch, or simply a sweet snack during the day, their easy customization options make them a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, they cater to various dietary needs, from gluten-free to nut-free, ensuring everyone can enjoy a taste of this classic nostalgia. Ready to dive into the world of satisfying flavors and a simple baking adventure? Let’s make some muffins! Why Are Coffee Cake Muffins So Irresistible? Warm, Cozy Comfort: The inviting aroma of cinnamon wafts through your kitchen, instantly filling your home with comfort and warmth. Moist, Fluffy Texture: Each bite reveals a tender crumb, perfectly balancing sweetness and spice, making them an instant favorite at any mealtime. Versatile Variations: From nut-free to coffee-flavored versions, you can easily tailor these muffins to suit any palate or dietary need. Quick and Easy: With simple steps and pantry staples, these muffins come together in no time—perfect for those busy mornings. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a brunch or treating yourself, these muffins are sure to impress everyone at the table! Want more ways to sweeten your day? Try out my No-Bake Oreo Cheesecake or explore the fresh taste of a Vegan Mango Cheesecake. Coffee Cake Muffin Ingredients • For the Muffins All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and base; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option. Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; can be reduced for a less sweet muffin. Light Brown Sugar – Contributes richness and a slight caramel flavor; replace with more granulated sugar if needed. Baking Soda – Essential leavening agent for proper texture; do not substitute with baking powder. Baking Powder – Another leavening agent to ensure muffins rise adequately. Salt – Enhances flavors; omit if on a low-sodium diet. Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; increase quantity for a stronger flavor. Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; can use coconut oil for a dairy-free version. Large Egg – Binds ingredients together; substitute with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water) for vegan option. Buttermilk – Provides moisture and tenderness; substitute with a milk-vinegar mix (1 tbsp vinegar + milk to ¾ cup). Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; can be omitted if preferred. Sour Cream – Adds moisture and tang; use dairy-free sour cream for lactose intolerance. Chopped Walnuts (optional) – Provide texture and nutty flavor; omit for nut-free muffins. • For the Streusel Topping All-Purpose Flour – Essential for a crumbly texture; can be substituted with gluten-free flour. Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and richness to the topping; don’t replace with granulated sugar if you want the same flavor. Ground Cinnamon – Complements the muffins’ flavor; adjust quantity to taste. Unsalted Butter – Creates a rich topping; coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free option. These Coffee Cake Muffins are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to create a treat everyone will love! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Coffee Cake Muffins Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, take a moment to line a muffin tin with paper liners to ensure easy removal of your scrumptious Coffee Cake Muffins after they’re baked. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect, golden-brown crust you desire. Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Combine these ingredients well, allowing the sweet aroma of cinnamon to fill your kitchen. This dry mixture forms the base of your muffins, ensuring a delectable texture. Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients In another bowl, blend the melted butter, egg, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and sour cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step brings rich moisture to your Coffee Cake Muffins, enhancing both flavor and tenderness. Make sure to incorporate everything without leaving any lumps behind. Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and gently stir until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense muffins. You should see a few lumps here and there, which is perfectly okay—this means your muffins will be tender and fluffy. Step 5: Add Optional Walnuts If you’re opting for walnuts in your Coffee Cake Muffins, gently fold them into the batter at this stage. The nuts add a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the muffins. Ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Step 6: Prepare the Streusel Topping In a small bowl, prepare the streusel topping by mixing together the flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter. Use your fingers or a fork to create a crumbly mixture. The streusel will provide a delightful, crunchy contrast to the soft muffins, making each bite irresistible. Step 7: Fill the Muffin Liners Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tins, filling each liner about three-quarters full. This will allow enough room for the muffins to rise beautifully in the oven. Once filled, take a moment to sprinkle the streusel topping generously over each muffin, ensuring an enticing look. Step 8: Bake the Muffins Carefully place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. You’ll know your Coffee Cake Muffins are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached. The muffins should have a lovely golden-brown color on top. Step 9: Cool the Muffins After baking, let the muffins cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. This short resting period allows them to set before transferring. Once slightly cooled, take them out and place the muffins on a wire rack to cool completely, where they will continue to develop their flavor. Coffee Cake Muffins Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and make these muffins your own with these delightful twists and substitutions! Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a delicious gluten-free option. Dairy-Free: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil and replace buttermilk with a mix of plant-based milk and vinegar (1 tbsp vinegar + ¾ cup milk). Nut-Free: Omit walnuts and use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added crunch without allergens. Coffee Flavor: Add 1 tablespoon of instant coffee granules to the wet ingredients for a coffee kick and deeper flavor. Chocolate Delight: Swap walnuts with chocolate chips to create a decadent chocolate version of these muffins. Fruit-Filled: Stir in dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon. Spiced Up: Enhance the warmth by adding a teaspoon of nutmeg or allspice to the batter. Sweet Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk on top after baking for an extra touch of sweetness. Now that you have these exciting options, why not explore more delicious treats? Check out my easy No-Bake Summer Berry Icebox Cake for another delightful addition to your dessert table! Expert Tips for Coffee Cake Muffins Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter; stirring until just combined ensures light and fluffy Coffee Cake Muffins. Baking Time Adjustments: Check for doneness a few minutes early; oven temperatures can vary, and larger muffins require more time. Add Coffee Flavor: For a coffee-infused twist, blend a tablespoon of instant coffee granules into the wet ingredients. Streusel Consistency: Ensure your streusel topping is crumbly but not too wet; this adds the perfect crunch on top of your muffins. Cooling Tip: Allow muffins to cool completely on a wire rack to prevent them from turning soggy. How to Store and Freeze Coffee Cake Muffins Room Temperature: Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and moist. Fridge: If you need to extend their shelf life, place the muffins in the fridge for up to a week. Make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the muffins for up to 3 months. Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to preserve flavor and texture. Reheating: To enjoy, simply thaw muffins at room temperature or microwave for 15-20 seconds until warm. They will taste as delightful as freshly baked Coffee Cake Muffins! Make Ahead Options These Coffee Cake Muffins are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mix the dry ingredients (flour, sugars, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon) up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container to preserve freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the streusel topping and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, just combine the wet ingredients with the dry mixture and proceed with the baking instructions. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade muffins in no time, making busy mornings so much easier without sacrificing flavor or quality! What to Serve with Scrumptious Coffee Cake Muffins These delightful treats are perfect for building a cozy and memorable meal experience. Fresh Fruit Salad: A burst of color and freshness, this vibrant mix of seasonal fruits perfectly complements the muffins’ sweetness. The juiciness balances the crumbly texture so beautifully! Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layered with your favorite yogurt and fruits, this parfait adds a delightful creaminess and contrasts the muffin’s fluffy texture; it’s a perfect brunch addition. Steaming Coffee: There’s simply nothing like enjoying your muffins alongside a rich cup of coffee. The coffee’s warmth enhances the cinnamon flavors and brings out the best in each bite. Herbal Tea: Gentle and aromatic, a soothing cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or mint, creates a calming vibe, making it perfect for a relaxed brunch setting. Maple Syrup Drizzle: For those with a sweet tooth, a light drizzle of maple syrup over the muffins elevates the flavor profile, adding an irresistible sweetness and an extra layer of delight. Nutty Granola: Add some crunch with a side of granola; its hearty texture offers a lovely contrast to the soft muffins, enriching each mouthful with flavors and goodness. Lemon Curd: This zesty spread brings a tart brightness, enhancing the muffins’ taste with a refreshing twist, perfect for something different and exciting. Chocolate Milkshake: For a fun and indulgent treat, serve these muffins with a rich chocolate milkshake; the combination of chocolate and coffee flavors will have everyone smiling! Embrace the comforting flavors of these Coffee Cake Muffins with these enticing sides and drinks for a truly delightful meal. Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Coffee Cake Muffins? Absolutely! For the best results, select fresh, high-quality ingredients. Ensure your buttermilk is fresh, and your eggs are not past their expiration date. Opt for unsalted butter for better control over the salt content. If using walnuts, check they’re not rancid—taste a piece raw if unsure. How should I store my Coffee Cake Muffins? I recommend storing your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them moist and fresh. If you need them to last longer, pop them in the fridge for up to a week, just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent drying out! Can I freeze Coffee Cake Muffins? Yes, you can freeze them for up to 3 months! To do this, wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. This double-wrapping prevents freezer burn and helps maintain the flavor and texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply let them thaw at room temperature or microwave for 15-20 seconds. What should I do if my batter is too thick or too runny? No worries! If your batter is too thick, it might be due to too much flour. Gradually add a bit more buttermilk until you reach the desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too runny, sprinkle a bit more flour gradually until it thickens. Aim for a batter that’s pourable but still holds its shape! Are Coffee Cake Muffins suitable for a gluten-free diet? Very! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. I often recommend a mix that includes xanthan gum for better structure. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, but they’ll still be delicious and satisfying! Can any alternatives be made for the ingredients due to allergies? Definitely! For those with lactose intolerance, swap buttermilk with a milk-vinegar mixture or choose a dairy-free sour cream. For nut allergies, omit the walnuts completely or replace them with seeds like sunflower seeds for crunch. Adjusting these ingredients ensures everyone can enjoy the wonderful flavors of your Coffee Cake Muffins! Delicious Coffee Cake Muffins for Cozy Brunch Mornings Delicious Coffee Cake Muffins are a warm and cozy treat, perfect for brunch. Their delightful blend of cinnamon and sweetness make them a crowd-pleaser. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 12 muffinsCourse: BreakfastCuisine: AmericanCalories: 210 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Muffins2 cups All-Purpose Flour substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option3/4 cup Granulated Sugar can be reduced for a less sweet muffin1/4 cup Light Brown Sugar replace with more granulated sugar if needed1 teaspoon Baking Soda essential leavening agent, do not substitute with baking powder1 teaspoon Baking Powder another leavening agent for proper rising1/2 teaspoon Salt omit if on a low-sodium diet1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon increase quantity for a stronger flavor1/2 cup Unsalted Butter can use coconut oil for a dairy-free version1 large Egg substitute with a flax egg for vegan option3/4 cup Buttermilk substitute with milk-vinegar mix1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract can be omitted if preferred1/2 cup Sour Cream use dairy-free sour cream for lactose intolerance1/2 cup Chopped Walnuts omit for nut-free muffinsFor the Streusel Topping1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour can be substituted with gluten-free flour1/3 cup Brown Sugar don't replace with granulated sugar for the same flavor1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon adjust quantity to taste1/4 cup Unsalted Butter coconut oil can be used for dairy-free option Equipment Muffin tinMixing bowlsWhiskmeasuring cupsmeasuring spoons Method PreparationPreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.In another bowl, blend melted butter, egg, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and sour cream until smooth.Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined.If using walnuts, fold them into the batter.Prepare the streusel topping by mixing flour, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until crumbly.Spoon the batter into muffin liners, filling each about three-quarters full, and sprinkle streusel topping over each muffin.Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.Cool muffins in the tin for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Nutrition Serving: 1muffinCalories: 210kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 3gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 300IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesTo enjoy later, muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days, in the fridge for up to a week, or frozen for up to 3 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
