Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins

Want to make absolutely perfect Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins that rival any professional bakery? I spent 6 months testing and perfecting muffin recipes so I could teach you the exact, easy-to-follow steps to coffee cake muffin perfection! These delightful muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. Their rich flavor, soft texture, and crumbly topping make them a standout treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg combined with a sweet sugary layer create a mouthwatering flavor.
• Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the muffin-making process, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfectly Moist: The addition of buttermilk ensures each bite is soft and moist, unlike many traditional muffins.
• Versatile Enjoyment: These muffins are great for any time of year—serve them at holiday gatherings, birthday breakfasts, or as a cozy snack.
• Bakery-Style Presentation: With their domed tops and crumbly topping, these muffins look as good as they taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking your Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin pan
• Muffin liners
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Oven

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin pan: Ensures even baking and helps achieve the desired muffin shape.
• Mixing bowls: Allows for easy mixing of dry and wet ingredients without mess.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving perfect muffins.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make delicious Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins:

For the Muffins:

• 3 ¾ cups (450g) all purpose flour
• 1 ¾ cups (347g) granulated sugar
• 3 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 2 large eggs
• 1 ¼ cup (295ml) buttermilk
• ½ cup (118ml) vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Layer:

• 3 Tbsp (43g) unsalted butter (melted)
• ⅓ cup (71g) brown sugar
• 1 ½ tsp cinnamon

For the Crumb Topping:

• ¾ cup (90g) all purpose flour
• ⅓ cup (71g) brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• ¼ cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted

For the Glaze:

• ¼ cup (28g) powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp milk

How to Make Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Layer

Melt the butter in a small bowl. Stir in the brown sugar and cinnamon until thick. Set aside to thicken while you prepare the muffin batter.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the properly measured flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir with a spoon until well mixed. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another larger mixing bowl, combine the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Stir with a fork or spatula for about 30 seconds until blended.

Step 4: Mix Batter Together

Gradually mix in the dry ingredients into the wet mixture by hand. Mix just until combined; be careful not to overmix. Expect a thick batter!

Step 5: Rest the Batter

Cover the bowl with a towel and allow it to rest for 15 minutes. Preheat your oven to 425ºF during this time.

Step 6: Make Crumb Topping

While waiting for the batter, prepare your crumb topping. In a separate mixing bowl combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, and melted butter. Use a spatula to mix until it resembles wet sand. Set aside until needed.

Step 7: Prepare Muffin Pan

Line a muffin pan with six muffin liners. Filling every other well allows each muffin room to spread while baking.

Step 8: Fill Muffin Liners

Fill each liner with approximately 2 tablespoons of muffin batter. Add about 1 teaspoon of the cinnamon sugar mixture in the center of each muffin then cover with another layer of batter using about 4–6 tablespoons.

Step 9: Add Crumb Topping

Sprinkle crumb topping over each muffin generously while pressing down slightly. Optionally sprinkle with sanding sugar for extra crunch.

Step 10: Bake

Place one pan in the center of your preheated oven. Bake for 7 minutes at 425ºF then reduce temperature to 350ºF without opening the oven door. Continue baking for an additional 16–20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from each muffin’s center. Let cool in pan for about 15 minutes before removing muffins.

Enjoy these delightful Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins fresh from your kitchen!

How to Serve Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins

Cinnamon coffee cake muffins are delightful on their own, but they can be elevated with the right accompaniments. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your muffin experience.

With Coffee

• A warm cup of coffee perfectly complements the sweet and spicy flavors of the muffins, creating a classic breakfast pairing.

Topped with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting on top for a rich and creamy contrast that adds an extra touch of indulgence.

Served with Fresh Fruit

• Pair the muffins with seasonal fruits like berries or sliced bananas for a fresh, vibrant side that balances sweetness.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• A light drizzle of maple syrup can add a touch of sweetness and moisture, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that complements the dense muffin base beautifully.

With Yogurt

• Serving these muffins alongside yogurt can create a balanced meal; choose plain or flavored varieties to suit your taste.

How to Perfect Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins

To ensure your cinnamon coffee cake muffins turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Measure ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure you have the right amounts for consistent results.
• Rest the batter: Allowing the batter to rest helps it thicken and improves texture, leading to fluffier muffins.
• Use room temperature ingredients: Bringing eggs and buttermilk to room temperature promotes better mixing and smoother batter.
• Don’t overmix: Stir until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough muffins rather than soft, tender ones.
• Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your muffins are ready to come out of the oven.
• Store properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins

When serving cinnamon coffee cake muffins, consider these delightful side dishes that pair wonderfully. They add variety and flavor to your breakfast table.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and complements the sweetness of the muffins.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and honey for a nutritious addition that’s both creamy and crunchy.
3. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs provide protein, making your meal more filling and balanced.
4. Sausage Links: Savory sausage links offer a hearty contrast to the sweet muffins, perfect for brunch gatherings.
5. Smoothie Bowl: A smoothie bowl topped with nuts and seeds adds color and nutrition while keeping breakfast exciting.
6. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal can be served on the side for those who prefer something heartier alongside their muffins.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results.

• Incorrect Measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Using too much flour or sugar can alter the muffin’s texture and flavor.
• Not Resting the Batter: Allowing the batter to rest for 15 minutes is crucial. Skipping this step can result in dense muffins instead of fluffy ones.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can develop gluten, making your muffins tough rather than light and airy.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to seize up, affecting the rise.
• Ignoring Oven Temperatures: Start baking at the higher temperature as instructed. This initial heat helps create domed tops for bakery-style muffins.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store muffins in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins

• Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they will keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake muffins for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual muffins on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place muffins in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes these Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins special?

These muffins combine the classic flavors of coffee cake with a convenient muffin format, perfect for breakfast or snacks.

Can I customize my Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even fruit like blueberries for added flavor and texture.

How do I know when my muffins are done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, they are ready!

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins are not only delicious but also versatile. They make an excellent breakfast treat or an afternoon snack. Feel free to customize them with your favorite mix-ins to make them uniquely yours!