Coffee Cake Muffin
There’s something about a warm muffin that makes any day feel a little brighter, and that’s exactly how I feel about my Coffee Cake Muffin recipe. I remember the first time I baked these delightful treats on a chilly Sunday morning. The aroma of baking wafted through the house, bringing everyone to the kitchen like moths to a flame. As the muffins puffed up in the oven, I couldn’t help but imagine how perfect they would be paired with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. Each bite is a blissful mix of sweet and spice, a comfort food that warms not just the belly but the soul too.
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
5 mins
25 mins
Medium
180 kcal
3 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
8 g
Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Baking Sheet, Oven
Why You Need This Coffee Cake Muffin
They’re a Morning Must-Have
There’s something about the combination of flavors in these Coffee Cake Muffins that transforms your breakfast routine. Each muffin is not just a treat; it’s a warm hug to start your day. The sprinkle of cinnamon and the sweetness of the brown sugar create that comforting essence of a traditional coffee cake, making these muffins suitable for those lazy Sunday brunches or a quick weekday breakfast.
Perfect for Sharing
What better way to show your love than by sharing a batch of homemade Coffee Cake Muffins? They make the perfect gift for neighbors or friends, especially during the holiday seasons. Imagine gifting a box of these freshly baked muffins to a new parent or a friend who’s had a tough week. The joy on their faces when they taste these muffins is just priceless.
Easy to Make
Even if you’re not a seasoned baker, these Coffee Cake Muffins are incredibly easy to whip up. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll find yourself baking a batch in no time. The recipe requires minimal prep and uses everyday ingredients, making it accessible for all skill levels.
Versatile for Any Occasion
These muffins are not just for breakfast. They can easily transition to dessert or a snack. Whether you serve them at a cozy family gathering, a picnic in the park, or a festive holiday feast, they’ll always be a hit. You could even pair them with fresh fruit or yogurt for a balanced meal.
They Freeze Well
One of my favorite features of these Coffee Cake Muffins is how well they freeze. You can whip up a double batch and store half for later. This means you can enjoy the deliciousness of homemade muffins whenever the mood strikes without the effort of baking anew!
Customizable for Your Taste
Finally, I love how easily customizable these muffins are! Whether you want to add a handful of chocolate chips, swap out the walnuts for pecans, or include your favorite spices, the options are endless. This flexibility means that each time you make them, you can create a unique twist!
What Goes Into Coffee Cake Muffin

When it comes to baking, the right ingredients make all the difference. The combination of rich butter, aromatic cinnamon, and fluffy sour cream gives these muffins their distinctive flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a role in creating a tender crumb and delightful topping, ensuring that every bite is a delicious experience.
- All-purpose flour: This is the base of our muffins, providing the structure needed for a perfect rise.
- Brown sugar: Packed with moisture and flavor, it contributes to the sweetness and adds a rich caramel note.
- Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that enhances the overall flavor profile, making these muffins feel cozy.
- Butter: Essential for moisture and richness, butter also adds a delightful flavor.
- Walnuts: These add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the muffins.
- Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the muffins rise beautifully.
- Baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to give the muffins a light texture.
- Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and balances the sweetness.
- Granulated sugar: Provides additional sweetness to the muffins, contributing to their tender crumb.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the muffins moist and tender.
- Eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together and adding richness.
- Sour cream: This adds moisture, tang, and helps make the muffins fluffy.
Cooking Method for Coffee Cake Muffin

Making these Coffee Cake Muffins is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. You’ll find that the steps are simple and enjoyable. Follow along, and you’ll be rewarded with a batch of muffins that are golden and irresistibly fluffy.
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is a crucial step to ensure that your muffins bake evenly and rise beautifully. While the oven heats up, prepare your muffin tin by lining it with paper liners. A light coating of nonstick spray can help prevent sticking, ensuring your muffins release easily.
Next, let’s make the topping. In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Cut in 4 tablespoons cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in 4 tablespoons chopped walnuts and set the topping aside. This crumbly mixture will provide a delicious contrast to the soft muffins.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/8 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger. This blend of dry ingredients will ensure that your muffins have the right texture and flavor.
In another large bowl, beat together 1 cup granulated sugar, 5 tablespoons softened butter, and 1/3 cup vegetable oil until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is essential for achieving that airy texture in your muffins. Take your time here; it will pay off!
Beat in 2 eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated. Each egg adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
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Next, stir in 1 cup sour cream. This is a key ingredient that adds moisture and ensures your muffins are tender. Mix well until everything is combined.
Now, it’s time to bring the wet and dry ingredients together. Add the dry flour mixture to the wet mixture and stir just until moistened. Be careful not to overmix; a lumpy batter is perfect for muffins!
Spoon half of the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about one-third full. Each muffin will need space to rise, so don’t overfill them.
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Top with half of your streusel topping, then add the remaining batter, and finish with the remaining topping. This layering will ensure that every muffin is bursting with flavor and texture.
Bake them in your preheated oven until golden brown, about 25 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a wooden toothpick into the center of a muffin; it should come out clean. Allow your muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This will help them set and keep them from becoming soggy.
Things Worth Knowing
- Always Preheat: Ensuring your oven is preheated is vital for even baking. It helps the muffins rise properly.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to dense muffins. Stir just until combined for a light texture.
- Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to test for doneness. If it comes out clean, your muffins are ready!
- Storage: These muffins can be stored at room temperature for 2 to 3 days. Make sure they are in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: These muffins freeze beautifully! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
- Customization: Feel free to adjust the spices and toppings to match your personal preference!
Making Adjustments

Every baker loves a chance to tweak a recipe. With these Coffee Cake Muffins, you have plenty of opportunities to make them your own! Here are some tips to help you adjust the recipe to your liking:
- Storage: Store your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If they last longer, consider freezing them.
- Freezing: To freeze, wrap muffins individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to three months!
- Pairing: Serve these muffins with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a side of scrambled eggs for a balanced breakfast.
- Sugar Variations: You can replace some of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Spice Adjustments: Adjust the spices to your liking! Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves can elevate the flavor.
- Adding Fruits: Incorporate berries or sliced bananas into the batter for added flavor and moisture.
What to Serve Alongside Coffee Cake Muffin
These Coffee Cake Muffins are incredibly versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Here are some ideas for what to enjoy with them:
- Fresh Fruit: Pair your muffins with a side of seasonal fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or sliced apples for a refreshing contrast.
- Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt can add creaminess and balance out the sweetness of the muffins.
- Tea or Coffee: These muffins make a perfect companion to your favorite morning beverage. Brew a pot of coffee or steep a warm cup of tea.
- Breakfast Buffet: They are excellent for brunch or a breakfast buffet, alongside options like scrambled eggs or smoothies.
- Picnic Treat: Pack them for a picnic! They travel well and make for a wonderful outdoor snack.
- Gift Idea: Consider wrapping a few in a pretty box as a thoughtful gift for a friend or neighbor.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Coffee Cake Muffin is a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of coffee cake with the convenience of a muffin. They’re perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. I encourage you to try this recipe and savor the deliciousness. Your family and friends will thank you for sharing these delightful muffins that bring warmth and joy to every occasion.

Coffee Cake Muffin
Equipment
- Wooden Spoon
- Mixing Bowl
- Chef's Knife
- Whisk
- Baking Sheet
- Oven
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup All-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup Brown sugar packed
- 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
- 4 tablespoons Butter cold, for streusel
- 4 tablespoons Walnuts chopped
- 2 1/4 cups All-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons Baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Baking soda
- 1/8 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground ginger
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 5 tablespoons Butter softened, for batter
- 1/3 cup Vegetable oil
- 2 Eggs
- 1 cup Sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare muffin tins with liners and nonstick spray.
- In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Cut in 4 tablespoons cold butter until crumbly. Stir in 4 tablespoons chopped walnuts.
- In another bowl, whisk 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/8 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger.
- In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup granulated sugar, 5 tablespoons softened butter, and 1/3 cup vegetable oil until fluffy.
- Beat in 2 eggs, one at a time, until well incorporated.
- Stir in 1 cup sour cream until combined.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just mixed. The batter should be lumpy.
- Spoon half the batter into the muffin tin, filling each cup about one-third full. Top with half the streusel, then add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the streusel.
- Bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- Butter: Use a total of 9 tablespoons; 4 cold for the streusel and 5 softened for the batter.
- Walnuts: Their crunchiness adds to the muffin's texture.
- Sour cream: This makes your muffins tender and moist.
- Yield: Ideal for a breakfast buffet or as a food gift.
- Storage: Store at room temperature for 2 to 3 days.
