Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe

Soft, buttery, and crowned with a crumbly cinnamon streusel Coffee Cake Muffins are the ultimate cozy treat. They bring all the classic flavors of traditional coffee cake into a perfectly portioned muffin you can enjoy on the go. Whether you’re serving them warm for breakfast, pairing them with a hot afternoon coffee, or packing them for a brunch potluck, these muffins check every box: moist, sweet, and just the right amount of indulgent.

These muffins are a nostalgic nod to the beloved coffee cake minus the need for slicing or plates. The best part? They’re just as easy to make as they are to devour. And no, there’s no coffee in the batter coffee cake got its name from being served with coffee, not because it contains any. With their rich brown sugar swirl and signature crumb topping, these Coffee Cake Muffins are destined to become a staple in your kitchen, especially on chilly mornings or weekend bake-offs with the kids.

What is Coffee Cake Muffins?

Coffee Cake Muffins are the handheld version of your favorite coffee cake moist muffins layered or topped with buttery cinnamon-sugar streusel and sometimes a glaze drizzle. But here’s the twist: despite the name, there’s no coffee in them. Weird, right? The “coffee” part comes from tradition this cake was meant to go with your morning cup, not in it. Think of these muffins as the ultimate excuse to eat cake for breakfast and still feel classy doing it. Ready to bake? Your coffee just found its new best friend.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These muffins deliver the perfect balance of fluffy texture, warm spice, and sweet crunch. Here’s why they’re a keeper:

• Cinnamon streusel topping that’s crumbly and buttery
• Moist, soft muffin base thanks to sour cream and brown sugar
• Quick and easy to make—just mix, scoop, and bake
• Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or brunch parties
• Make-ahead and freezer friendly, so you can always have one on hand

They’re like your favorite bakery treat but better, because you made them yourself (and probably for a lot less money!).

How to Make Coffee Cake Muffins

Quick Overview

These muffins come together in three parts: the batter, the streusel topping, and optionally, a simple glaze. All you need is a couple of bowls, a muffin tin, and about 30 minutes from start to finish.

Key Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Preparation
All-purpose flour	1 ½ cups	For the muffin batter
Baking powder	2 tsp	Leavening for fluffy texture
Baking soda	½ tsp	Helps with rise and browning
Salt	¼ tsp	Balances the sweetness
Unsalted butter	½ cup (1 stick)	Softened, for richness
Brown sugar	½ cup	Adds moisture and molasses flavor
White sugar	¼ cup	For balanced sweetness
Eggs	2 large	Room temperature
Sour cream	½ cup	Adds moisture and tang
Vanilla extract	1 ½ tsp	For aroma and depth
Milk	¼ cup	Helps loosen the batter

For the Streusel Topping:

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	⅓ cup
Brown sugar	⅓ cup
Cinnamon	1 ½ tsp
Unsalted butter	3 tbsp (cold)

Optional Glaze:
Mix ½ cup powdered sugar with 1 tbsp milk or cream.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Streusel

In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a fork or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Set aside in the fridge while you prep the batter.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step helps evenly distribute the leavening agents so your muffins rise properly.

Cream the Butter and Sugars

Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the softened butter with both sugars until light and fluffy about 2–3 minutes. This traps air and creates a soft, tender crumb.

Add the Wet Ingredients

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add the vanilla and sour cream. Mix until smooth. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, and mix until just combined. Do not overmix lumps are okay!

Assemble the Muffins

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners. Fill each cup about ¾ full with batter. Generously sprinkle the streusel topping over each muffin.

Bake and Cool

Bake for 18–22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Drizzle with glaze if desired.

What to Serve With Coffee Cake Muffins

These muffins are perfect on their own, but pairing them with the right sides can turn a casual morning into a cozy brunch. Here are five delightful options from your latest recipe lineup:

Pumpkin Banana Bread – Moist, spiced, and fall-ready, this bread adds warmth and variety to your breakfast table.

Detox Smoothie – Balance the sweetness of the muffins with something light and refreshing, like this fruit-packed smoothie.

Sweet Potato Pancakes – Fluffy and lightly sweet, these pancakes are great for serving a crowd alongside your muffins.

Brie Cheese Bites – Add a savory touch with these creamy, bite-sized pastries—perfect for brunch spreads or holiday breakfasts.

Snow Cream Recipe – For a wintery twist, pair your warm muffins with a bowl of this chilly, fun dessert made from real snow.

Pro Tips for Perfecting Coffee Cake Muffins

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients – This helps everything blend smoothly and ensures even baking.
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter – Stir just until combined. Overmixing leads to dense muffins.
3. Chill the Streusel – Cold butter makes for a crunchier, crumblier topping.
4. Use Muffin Liners – Makes cleanup easier and keeps the muffins moist.
5. Add a Swirl – Want a cinnamon swirl inside? Mix a little brown sugar and cinnamon and layer it in the middle of each muffin.
6. Glaze Right Before Serving – If using a glaze, drizzle it on after the muffins are fully cooled to prevent melting or sogginess.
7. Freeze for Later – These muffins freeze beautifully. Let cool, wrap individually, and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

How to Store Coffee Cake Muffins

Room Temperature:
Store muffins in an airtight container at room temp for up to 3 days. To keep the streusel topping crisp, line the container with a paper towel and leave the lid slightly ajar.

Refrigerator:
You can refrigerate them for up to 5 days, but be aware the streusel may soften slightly. Reheat in a toaster oven for a fresh-from-the-oven feel.

Freezer:
Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. Store for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw at room temp and warm in the oven at 325°F for 5–7 minutes.

FAQs About Coffee Cake Muffins

What is the difference between muffins and coffee cake?

Coffee cake is typically a single-layer cake topped with streusel and baked in a pan, while muffins are individually portioned and often fluffier. Coffee cake muffins combine the best of both!

How to store coffee cake muffins?

Store them in an airtight container at room temp for 2–3 days or refrigerate for up to 5. For long-term storage, freeze for up to 2 months.

How long will coffee cake stay fresh?

Coffee cake (or muffins) stay fresh for about 3 days at room temp or up to 5 days refrigerated. Always keep them covered to prevent drying out.

Is coffee cake supposed to be crumbly?

Yes! The streusel topping is meant to be buttery and crumbly, adding texture to the soft, moist cake or muffin below.

How do I keep my muffins from getting soggy?

Let them cool completely before storing. Place a paper towel in the container to absorb moisture, and leave the lid slightly ajar if keeping at room temp.

These Coffee Cake Muffins are a bakery-style treat you can whip up at home anytime. Moist, spiced, and topped with a golden streusel, they’ll make your morning (and your kitchen) smell like a dream.

Print