If you have a soft spot for baked treats that blend the comforting warmth of cinnamon with a tender crumb and a touch of sweet glaze, you are going to fall in love with this Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe. These muffins are an absolute dream—moist, fluffy, and topped with a buttery cinnamon crumble that practically melts in your mouth. Each bite delivers a perfect harmony of textures, from the lightly crunchy topping to the luscious vanilla glaze that ties everything together. Whether you’re craving a cozy breakfast or a delightful afternoon pick-me-up, this Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe brings all the joy of classic coffee cake into a portable, muffin form that you’ll want to keep on hand for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe just right means focusing on a handful of simple, quality ingredients that combine to create a symphony of flavors and textures. From the richness of butter to the tangy creaminess of sour cream, each component plays a key role in bringing these muffins to life.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb for the muffins.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Gives the muffins their necessary rise, ensuring lightness.
- ½ tsp baking soda: Works with acid from sour cream to create perfect fluffiness.
- ½ tsp salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture without overpowering.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens and helps achieve a delicate crumb.
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed: Contributes natural molasses flavor and tenderness.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and add richness.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and a subtle tang that brightens the batter.
- ½ cup light brown sugar (for crumb): The sweet base of the crisp topping.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for crumb): Infuses the crumble with classic coffee cake spice.
- ¼ tsp salt (for crumb): Balances the sweetness in the topping.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (for crumb): Helps form the crunchy, buttery topping.
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for drizzle): Sweetens the glaze for a finished look and taste.
- 2-3 tbsp milk (for drizzle): Adjusts the consistency of the glaze perfectly.
- ½ tsp vanilla extract (for drizzle): Enhances the glaze with subtle vanilla notes.
How to Make Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential because a well-heated oven ensures your muffins rise beautifully and bake evenly. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease it thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping
In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, ½ cup light brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until large crumbs form—this crumb mixture will become the mouthwatering topping that sets these muffins apart. Set this aside while you prepare the batter.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
Whisk together the 2 cups of flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Then, in a large bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time followed by the vanilla extract. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients alternated with the sour cream, mixing just until everything comes together. Over-mixing can toughen the muffins, so be gentle.
Step 4: Fill Muffin Cups and Add Crumb
Spoon the batter into the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full to allow room for rising. Generously top each muffin with the prepared crumb mixture, pressing it down slightly to help it stick and create that irresistible crust.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your muffins for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After baking, let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This cooling phase helps the muffins set and prevents the crumb topping from falling apart.
Step 6: Drizzle with Vanilla Glaze
While the muffins cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this luscious glaze over each muffin to add a glossy finish and just the right amount of sweetness to complement the cinnamon crumb topping.
How to Serve Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of charm and flavor, sprinkle chopped toasted nuts such as pecans or walnuts over the glaze while it’s still wet. This adds a delightful crunch and nutty aroma that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon notes.
Side Dishes
These muffins pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or an afternoon snack. For a full brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, or a cheese platter to balance the sweet richness with some light and tangy bites.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider placing the muffins in a pretty basket lined with a colorful cloth napkin for a rustic, inviting look. For gatherings, stack them on a tiered dessert stand to make them the centerpiece of your spread. You can also experiment by slicing them in half and adding a smear of cream cheese or nut butter for a decadent treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe leftovers should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them moist and fresh. If you want to extend their life, refrigerate them but allow the muffins to come back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing
These muffins freeze beautifully! Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.
Reheating
Reheat chilled or frozen muffins in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds or warm gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes. This revives their softness and melts the glaze slightly for that fresh-baked appeal.
FAQs
Can I substitute sour cream with yogurt?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for sour cream in this Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe. It maintains moisture and adds a similar tangy flavor while keeping the muffins tender.
What type of cinnamon is best for the crumb topping?
Ground cinnamon works best for the crumb topping as it evenly distributes the warm spice flavor. If you prefer, you can also mix in a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a more complex aroma.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binding agent for the best results.
Is it okay to use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Using salted butter is fine; just reduce the added salt in the recipe slightly to avoid an overly salty taste. Typically, cutting the salt by half should balance it out.
Can these muffins be made into a loaf instead?
Definitely! You can pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Top the loaf with the crumb mixture before baking for that signature coffee cake crunch.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe that keeps it close to my heart—and my kitchen. It’s the perfect mix of comfort, flavor, and convenience packed into one irresistible treat. I hope you enjoy making and sharing these muffins as much as I do. They’re sure to become a beloved favorite whether for lazy weekend breakfasts or anytime you need a sweet pick-me-up. Go ahead, give them a try and watch your kitchen fill with the cozy scents of cinnamon and vanilla magic!
