Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe: 4 Steps to Make This Delicious Muffins at Home

There’s nothing better than the warm, comforting taste of coffee cake muffins to start your day. With their soft, fluffy texture, rich cinnamon flavor, and irresistible crumb topping, these muffins are the perfect blend of sweet, buttery goodness in every bite. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, brunch, or as a cozy afternoon snack, they pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

This easy coffee cake muffins recipe brings you all the classic flavors of traditional coffee cake in a portable, single-serve form—no slicing required! Best of all, they’re quick to make, using simple pantry staples and just a few steps. Follow along as we guide you through the best tips and techniques to achieve moist, bakery-style muffins with a perfectly crumbly cinnamon streusel topping.

So, if you’re ready to bake a batch of homemade deliciousness, let’s get started! 🚀

Key Details About This Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe

Before diving into the step-by-step instructions, here are the essential details you need to know about making coffee cake muffins. This section will help you plan your time and servings efficiently, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable baking experience.

This easy-to-follow recipe ensures that your muffins turn out perfectly light, moist, and full of flavor. Whether you’re making them for a quick morning treat or a cozy afternoon snack, these muffins are sure to become a household favorite. Now, let’s move on to the ingredients you’ll need!

Ingredients for the Best Coffee Cake Muffins

Main Muffin Ingredients

To make the perfect coffee cake muffins, you’ll need a mix of basic pantry staples and a few key ingredients that bring out the classic flavor and texture. Below is a detailed breakdown of each ingredient and its role in the recipe.

Each ingredient plays an essential role in making coffee cake muffins that are moist, flavorful, and perfectly textured. Be sure to use fresh baking powder to ensure a good rise, and don’t skip the vanilla extract for extra depth of flavor. If you prefer a richer taste, substituting part of the butter with sour cream or yogurt can add extra moisture and softness.

Cinnamon Streusel Topping

The cinnamon streusel topping is what makes Coffee Cake Muffins truly special. It adds a sweet, crumbly texture with warm cinnamon flavors that contrast beautifully with the soft muffin base. This simple topping requires only a few ingredients and is easy to prepare in minutes.

How to Make the Streusel Topping

1. Mix dry ingredients – In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon, stirring until evenly blended.
2. Incorporate the butter – Add cold, cubed butter and use a fork or pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The butter should not be fully blended; small chunks help create the perfect texture.
3. Chill if needed – If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate the streusel for 5-10 minutes before using. This helps prevent the butter from melting too soon.
4. Sprinkle generously – Distribute the streusel evenly over each muffin before baking to ensure a crunchy topping that stays intact.
5. Lightly press down – Gently press some of the streusel into the muffin batter so it adheres while baking.

Optional Add-ins & Toppings for Coffee Cake Muffins

Adding extra ingredients to coffee cake muffins can elevate their flavor and texture. Whether you prefer a nutty crunch, fruity sweetness, or a touch of chocolate, here are some delicious options to customize your muffins.

Experimenting with different add-ins and toppings can help you create unique variations of coffee cake muffins suited to your taste. Whether you love classic flavors or enjoy trying new combinations, these options can take your muffins to the next level.

If you’re looking for another quick and delicious baked treat, check out this 4-ingredient banana bread recipe. It’s incredibly easy to make and perfect for a simple, fuss-free baking experience! Read the full recipe here.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Coffee Cake Muffins

Step 1 – Prepare the Muffin Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly greasing each cup to prevent sticking. This ensures that your coffee cake muffins bake evenly and release easily once done.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. These dry ingredients provide the structure and balance of sweetness in your coffee cake muffins. Mixing them first helps evenly distribute the leavening agents, ensuring a consistent rise.

In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, eggs, milk (or buttermilk), and vanilla extract. Whisk until fully blended, creating a smooth mixture. The melted butter adds richness, while the eggs bind everything together. Using buttermilk instead of regular milk can enhance moisture, making your coffee cake muffins extra soft and tender.

Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can lead to dense muffins rather than the light, fluffy texture that makes coffee cake muffins so delicious. The batter should be slightly lumpy but without visible streaks of dry flour.

Once your batter is ready, set it aside while you prepare the streusel topping. Letting the batter rest for a few minutes can help hydrate the flour, resulting in a softer crumb when baked.

Step 2 – Make the Streusel Topping

The secret to achieving the perfect texture and flavor in coffee cake muffins lies in the streusel topping. This crumbly, sweet layer adds a delightful contrast to the soft and fluffy muffin base, giving each bite an irresistible crunch. Making the streusel is simple, requiring just a few ingredients and a light mixing technique to ensure the best consistency.

Start by combining brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and ground cinnamon in a small mixing bowl. The brown sugar adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness, while the cinnamon enhances the classic flavor of coffee cake muffins. Use a fork or a whisk to blend these dry ingredients evenly before adding the butter.

Next, cut cold unsalted butter into small cubes and add it to the dry mixture. Using a pastry cutter, fork, or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour and sugar mixture. The goal is to achieve a coarse, crumbly texture with small, pea-sized bits of butter evenly distributed throughout. This technique ensures that the streusel topping bakes up light and crisp instead of becoming dense or greasy.

For an extra layer of flavor and texture, consider mixing in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts. These add a subtle crunch that complements the soft texture of coffee cake muffins. Once the streusel mixture is ready, set it aside until it’s time to sprinkle it over the muffin batter. Keeping it at room temperature rather than refrigerating helps it maintain the perfect consistency when baked.

Avoid overmixing the streusel, as this can cause the butter to blend too much into the flour, leading to a paste-like texture instead of a crumbly topping. When applied to the batter, the streusel should remain slightly loose to create a crisp, golden-brown layer that enhances the classic appeal of coffee cake muffins.

Step 3 – Assemble the Muffins

Now that the muffin batter is ready and the streusel topping is prepared, it’s time to assemble the coffee cake muffins for baking. Proper assembly ensures each muffin has a balanced texture, with a soft, moist crumb and a deliciously crisp topping. Follow these steps carefully to get the best results.

Start by lining a standard muffin tin with paper liners or lightly greasing each cavity to prevent sticking. Using a spoon or an ice cream scoop, divide the muffin batter evenly among the cups, filling each about two-thirds full. This allows enough space for the muffins to rise properly while keeping the texture light and fluffy. Avoid overfilling, as the batter may overflow during baking, leading to uneven muffins.

Once the batter is distributed, generously sprinkle the prepared streusel topping over each muffin. For the best results, use your fingers to lightly press the crumb mixture into the batter. This helps some of the topping adhere while still allowing a portion to remain loose, creating the signature crumbly texture of coffee cake muffins. If you prefer an extra crunchy topping, add a second layer of streusel by spooning a small amount of batter over the first layer and finishing with another dusting of the crumb mixture.

At this point, you can customize the muffins with optional add-ins. Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or chocolate chips over the tops before baking for added flavor and texture. If you like a slightly sweeter finish, a light drizzle of honey or a dusting of cinnamon sugar can enhance the overall taste of the coffee cake muffins.

Once assembled, the muffins are ready to go into the oven. Giving them a final gentle tap on the counter helps settle the batter and topping, ensuring even baking. Now, they are set to transform into golden, soft muffins with a rich cinnamon aroma filling your kitchen.

Step 4 – Bake and Cool

Once your muffin tin is filled with batter and topped with the delicious crumbly streusel, it’s time to bake your coffee cake muffins to golden perfection. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the muffin tray on the center rack. This ensures even heat distribution, allowing the muffins to rise properly without overbrowning the tops too quickly.

Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, keeping an eye on them as they near the end of the baking time. The perfect coffee cake muffins should have a light golden brown color, with a slightly domed top and a crisp, crumbly streusel layer. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, they are ready. If there’s wet batter on the toothpick, allow them to bake for an additional 2 to 3 minutes before testing again.

Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and let the coffee cake muffins cool for about 5 minutes in the tray. This short resting period helps them set and makes it easier to remove them without breaking apart. Afterward, transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely. Letting them cool properly enhances their texture, ensuring they remain soft and fluffy inside while maintaining the crumbly topping.

These muffins are best enjoyed slightly warm, but if you prefer, you can store them for later. Pair them with a soothing cup of homemade lemon tea for a refreshing balance of sweetness and citrus. Get the lemon tea recipe here. Whether served fresh or reheated, each bite of these coffee cake muffins will be packed with rich cinnamon flavor and a soft, moist crumb.

Expert Tips for Perfect Coffee Cake Muffins

How to Make Your Muffins Extra Moist

Achieving soft, tender, and moist coffee cake muffins is all about using the right ingredients and baking techniques. Dry or crumbly muffins can be disappointing, but with a few simple adjustments, you can ensure that every bite is rich, fluffy, and packed with flavor. Here are some essential tips to help you make your muffins extra moist and delicious.

1. Use Buttermilk or Yogurt Instead of Regular Milk

One of the best ways to enhance the moisture level in coffee cake muffins is by replacing regular milk with buttermilk or plain yogurt. These ingredients add richness and tenderness by providing acidity, which helps break down gluten, resulting in a softer texture. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a cup of milk and letting it sit for five minutes before using it.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter

Overmixing is a common mistake that leads to dense and dry muffins. When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix only until the ingredients are incorporated. A few lumps in the batter are perfectly fine and will disappear during baking. Stirring too much develops the gluten in the flour, making the muffins tough instead of soft and moist.

3. Add an Extra Egg for a Richer Texture

Eggs provide structure and help retain moisture in baked goods. If you want a more tender texture in your coffee cake muffins, consider adding an extra egg to the recipe. This will result in a richer flavor and keep the muffins from drying out too quickly after baking.

4. Use Brown Sugar Instead of White Sugar

Brown sugar contains molasses, which adds moisture and a slightly caramelized flavor to muffins. Replacing some or all of the white sugar in your recipe with brown sugar helps create a more tender crumb while enhancing the overall taste. If you prefer a deeper, more complex sweetness, opt for dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.

5. Do Not Overbake

Overbaking is one of the fastest ways to dry out muffins. Always check your coffee cake muffins a couple of minutes before the suggested baking time. Use a toothpick inserted in the center—if it comes out with just a few moist crumbs, they are done. Removing them from the oven at the right moment ensures that they stay soft and fluffy instead of becoming dry and crumbly.

6. Use Oil Instead of Butter or a Combination of Both

While butter adds flavor, oil is a key ingredient for keeping baked goods moist. If you prefer a softer texture, consider substituting some of the butter in the recipe with vegetable oil or coconut oil. A combination of both butter and oil gives you the best of both worlds—rich flavor from the butter and lasting moisture from the oil.

7. Let the Muffins Cool Properly

Cooling muffins the right way can also impact their moisture level. After baking, let the muffins sit in the pan for about five minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Leaving them in the pan for too long can cause them to overcook due to residual heat. However, removing them too soon may make them fragile and prone to breaking. Finding the right balance ensures they stay moist while maintaining a perfect texture.

How to Achieve a Perfect Crumb Topping

One of the best things about coffee cake muffins is their irresistible crumb topping. A well-made streusel topping adds a crunchy, buttery contrast to the soft, fluffy texture of the muffins. To ensure that your topping turns out perfectly every time, follow these key techniques and tips.

1. Use Cold Butter for the Best Texture

Cold butter is essential for achieving a crumbly and crisp topping. When mixing the streusel ingredients, cut in small cubes of cold butter instead of using melted or softened butter. This helps create a sandy, coarse texture that bakes into crunchy, golden-brown crumbles on top of the muffins. If the butter starts to soften while mixing, place the mixture in the refrigerator for a few minutes before sprinkling it over the batter.

2. Mix the Streusel Until It Forms Coarse Crumbs

To get the right consistency, combine brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon before adding the butter. Use a pastry cutter, a fork, or even your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients. The mixture should resemble small pea-sized crumbs. Overmixing can cause the topping to become too fine, which may result in a dense or overly dry texture instead of a light, crispy crumble.

3. Press Some Topping Into the Batter for Better Hold

To ensure that some of the crumb topping stays attached to the coffee cake muffins after baking, lightly press a small amount into the batter before adding the rest on top. This technique helps prevent the crumbs from falling off too easily when serving or eating the muffins. However, be careful not to press too hard, as you want the streusel to remain light and airy.

4. Bake at the Right Temperature for an Even Crunch

Baking temperature plays a significant role in how the crumb topping turns out. For the best results, bake coffee cake muffins at a moderate heat, around 375°F (190°C). This allows the butter in the streusel to melt gradually, creating a crisp and caramelized topping. Baking at too high a temperature can cause the topping to burn before the muffins are fully cooked, while a lower temperature may result in a soggy or undercooked crumble.

5. Enhance Flavor with Extra Spices and Add-Ins

While classic cinnamon is the key flavor in the crumb topping, you can enhance it by adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth. Chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts can also be mixed into the streusel for added texture and a rich, nutty taste. If you want a slightly sweeter and glossier finish, drizzle a light powdered sugar glaze over the cooled muffins after baking.

Storage and Freezing Tips

Proper storage ensures that your coffee cake muffins stay fresh, soft, and flavorful for as long as possible. Whether you plan to enjoy them within a few days or want to store them for later, here’s how to keep them in the best condition.

How to Store Coffee Cake Muffins at Room Temperature

If you plan to eat your coffee cake muffins within a few days, keeping them at room temperature is the best option. Follow these steps for proper storage:

• Allow the muffins to cool completely before storing them to prevent excess moisture buildup.
• Place them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag to maintain their soft texture.
• If stacking muffins, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.
• Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
• Properly stored, they will stay fresh for up to three days.

How to Refrigerate Coffee Cake Muffins

Refrigeration is not always necessary, but if you live in a warm or humid climate, it can help extend freshness. However, storing muffins in the refrigerator can sometimes dry them out, so follow these tips to maintain their moisture:

• Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.
• If muffins seem slightly dry after refrigeration, warm them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
• When stored properly, coffee cake muffins can last in the refrigerator for up to a week.

How to Freeze Coffee Cake Muffins for Long-Term Storage

Freezing is the best way to store coffee cake muffins for an extended period while preserving their taste and texture. If you want to prepare muffins ahead of time or save leftovers, follow these freezing instructions:

• Let the muffins cool completely before freezing to prevent condensation and ice crystals.
• Wrap each muffin in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to lock in moisture.
• Place the wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe resealable bag or airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of their freshness.
• Frozen coffee cake muffins will stay fresh for up to three months.

How to Thaw and Reheat Frozen Coffee Cake Muffins

When you’re ready to enjoy your stored muffins, there are a few ways to thaw and reheat them for the best results:

• Room Temperature Thawing: Remove the muffins from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave Method: For a quick option, microwave a frozen muffin for 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Oven Reheating: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C), wrap muffins in foil, and warm them for about 10 minutes.

Common Questions About Coffee Cake Muffins

Can I Make These Muffins Without Eggs?

Yes! If you’re looking to make coffee cake muffins without eggs, there are several great alternatives that will still give you soft, moist, and flavorful muffins. Eggs in baking help with structure, moisture, and binding, so choosing the right substitute is important to maintain the texture of your coffee cake muffins.

Best Egg Substitutes for Coffee Cake Muffins

1. Unsweetened Applesauce (¼ cup per egg)
   • Applesauce is a popular egg substitute that adds moisture and a hint of natural sweetness to coffee cake muffins. It works best in soft, moist baked goods and won’t significantly change the flavor.
2. Mashed Banana (¼ cup per egg)
   • A ripe mashed banana provides a similar moisture-boosting effect, though it may add a slight banana flavor to your coffee cake muffins. This option works well if you enjoy fruity undertones in your muffins.
3. Greek Yogurt (¼ cup per egg)
   • Plain Greek yogurt is an excellent alternative for eggs because it enhances moisture and helps maintain the structure of coffee cake muffins. This option is great for achieving a rich and tender crumb.
4. Flaxseed or Chia Egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed or chia seeds + 3 tbsp water per egg)
   • Mixing ground flaxseed or chia seeds with water creates a gel-like consistency that mimics eggs. This is a perfect choice if you want to add some extra fiber and nutrition to your muffins.
5. Baking Powder and Vinegar (1 tsp baking powder + 1 tbsp vinegar per egg)
   • A combination of baking powder and vinegar creates a chemical reaction that helps give coffee cake muffins a light, fluffy texture. This is a great option if you want to keep the muffins airy.

Tips for Making Egg-Free Coffee Cake Muffins

• When using egg substitutes, avoid overmixing the batter to prevent dense muffins.
• If using applesauce or banana, slightly reduce the sugar in the recipe to balance the sweetness.
• Baking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with a few dry crumbs, the muffins are ready.

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes, you can absolutely make coffee cake muffins gluten-free without sacrificing their delicious flavor and fluffy texture. Whether you have gluten sensitivity, celiac disease, or simply prefer a gluten-free diet, there are several ways to adapt this recipe while maintaining the classic taste and crumbly streusel topping.

Choosing the Right Gluten-Free Flour

The most important step in making gluten-free coffee cake muffins is selecting a high-quality gluten-free flour blend. Look for an all-purpose gluten-free flour that contains a mix of rice flour, tapioca starch, and potato starch. Many store-bought gluten-free flour blends already include xanthan gum, which helps bind the ingredients together and mimics the structure that gluten provides.

If your gluten-free flour does not contain xanthan gum or guar gum, it is recommended to add ½ teaspoon per cup of flour to improve the texture of the muffins. This will prevent them from becoming too crumbly or dry.

Adjusting Liquid Ingredients

Gluten-free flour tends to absorb more moisture than regular flour, which can sometimes result in dry muffins. To prevent this, slightly increase the amount of liquid ingredients in the recipe. You can do this by adding an extra tablespoon of milk or using buttermilk instead of regular milk to create a more tender crumb.

Additionally, using a little extra melted butter or a tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt can help enhance the moisture content, ensuring that your coffee cake muffins remain soft and flavorful.

Tips for Baking Gluten-Free Coffee Cake Muffins

When baking with gluten-free ingredients, it’s essential to avoid overmixing the batter. Stir just until the ingredients are combined to prevent the muffins from becoming dense. Another helpful trick is to let the batter rest for about 10 minutes before baking, allowing the gluten-free flour to hydrate fully and produce a better texture.

To ensure the best results, check the muffins for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. Gluten-free muffins sometimes take a few extra minutes to bake compared to traditional ones. If the toothpick comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they are ready to enjoy.

Storing Gluten-Free Muffins

Since gluten-free baked goods tend to dry out faster, store leftover coffee cake muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months. When ready to eat, warm them slightly in the microwave for a soft and fresh taste.

What’s the Best Way to Add a Glaze?

Adding a glaze to coffee cake muffins is a simple way to enhance their flavor and presentation. A light drizzle of sweet glaze not only gives them a bakery-style finish but also adds a subtle touch of moisture that complements the crumbly streusel topping. The key to achieving the perfect glaze lies in its consistency and application.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

To make a smooth and flavorful glaze for coffee cake muffins, you will need:

• ½ cup powdered sugar (also called confectioners’ sugar)
• 1 to 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (adjust for desired thickness)
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for extra flavor)
• A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg (optional, but adds warmth to the taste)

For those who prefer a richer glaze, substituting milk with heavy cream creates a creamier texture, while adding a small amount of maple syrup or honey gives the glaze a natural sweetness.

Mixing the Glaze to the Right Consistency

To prepare the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl. Start with one tablespoon of liquid and gradually add more until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. The glaze should be thick enough to coat a spoon but still thin enough to drizzle easily over coffee cake muffins. If the mixture is too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar; if it’s too thick, add a few drops of milk until the texture is just right.

How to Apply the Glaze

Once coffee cake muffins have fully cooled, it’s time to apply the glaze. Drizzling it over warm muffins may cause it to absorb too quickly, losing its decorative effect. For the best results, use a spoon or a piping bag to gently drizzle the glaze over each muffin in a zigzag pattern. If you prefer a more even coating, dip the tops of the muffins directly into the glaze and let the excess drip off before placing them on a wire rack to set.

For an extra layer of indulgence, consider double-glazing by letting the first layer set before adding another drizzle. This technique creates a richer flavor and gives coffee cake muffins a glossy, professional appearance.

Alternative Glaze Flavors

While a classic vanilla glaze pairs beautifully with coffee cake muffins, there are several variations to try:

• Maple Glaze – Substitute vanilla extract with maple syrup for a warm, autumn-inspired touch.
• Cinnamon Glaze – Mix a small amount of ground cinnamon into the glaze for extra spice.
• Lemon Glaze – Replace some of the milk with freshly squeezed lemon juice for a tangy contrast.
• Cream Cheese Glaze – Blend softened cream cheese into the mixture for a rich and creamy topping.

Savor Every Bite: The Joy of Homemade Coffee Cake Muffins

Baking coffee cake muffins at home is more than just following a recipe—it’s about creating a warm, comforting treat that brings people together. Whether you’re enjoying them with your morning coffee, serving them at brunch, or indulging in an afternoon snack, these muffins deliver the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and texture. The combination of a moist, tender crumb and a rich, buttery streusel topping makes them an irresistible addition to any occasion.

One of the best things about coffee cake muffins is their versatility. With simple ingredient swaps and creative add-ins, you can customize them to suit your taste. From adding nuts for extra crunch to drizzling on a flavorful glaze, there are endless ways to make each batch unique. Plus, their individual serving size makes them an easy grab-and-go treat for busy mornings or a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.

If you’ve followed this recipe, you now have a batch of freshly baked coffee cake muffins, packed with warm cinnamon flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. As you take your first bite, let the comforting flavors remind you of the simple joys of homemade baking.

Now it’s your turn! Have you tried making coffee cake muffins with any creative variations? Do you prefer a classic vanilla glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar? Share your experience in the comments below, and don’t forget to spread the love by sharing this recipe with fellow muffin enthusiasts. Happy baking!