Coffee Cake Muffin Recipe

All-purpose flour: The base for the muffin batter, providing structure and texture.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the muffins.

Brown sugar: Used in both the batter and the crumb topping for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.

Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the muffins and the crumb topping.

Milk: Provides moisture and helps to create a tender crumb.

Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet flavor to the muffins.

Baking powder: Helps the muffins rise and become fluffy.

Baking soda: Works with the baking powder to leaven the muffins.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy flavor to the crumb topping.

When preparing the crumb topping for your coffee cake muffins, ensure that the butter is fully melted but not hot. This will help the brown sugar and flour combine more evenly, creating a perfect crumbly texture. If the butter is too hot, it can dissolve the sugar, resulting in a less desirable, pasty consistency.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the muffins denser.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Provides a natural sweetness and adds moisture, but reduce the milk slightly to balance the liquid content.

• brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Offers a similar caramel-like flavor with a lower glycemic index.

• butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Adds a subtle coconut flavor and is a good dairy-free option.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: A dairy-free alternative that works well in baking.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Provides a different but pleasant flavor profile.

• baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon cream of tartar for each teaspoon of baking powder needed.

• baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 3 times the amount of baking powder, but it may affect the taste slightly.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Offers a more complex flavor and can be used in the same quantity.

• brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Adds a rich, unique sweetness, but reduce the milk slightly to balance the liquid content.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: Makes the recipe suitable for those with gluten intolerance, though the texture may vary.

• butter - Substitute with applesauce: Reduces fat content and adds moisture, but may slightly alter the flavor.

• cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Provides a warm, spicy flavor, though it is stronger, so use less.

• Allow the coffee cake muffins to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the muffins soggy.

• Place the cooled muffins in an airtight container. If stacking the muffins, separate each layer with a piece of parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together.

• Store the container at room temperature if you plan to consume the muffins within 2-3 days. For longer storage, place the container in the refrigerator, where the muffins will stay fresh for up to a week.

• To freeze the muffins, first wrap each one individually in plastic wrap. This helps to maintain their moisture and prevents freezer burn.

• After wrapping, place the muffins in a large, resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the bag or container with the date to keep track of their freshness.

• Freeze the muffins for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds.

• For a freshly baked taste, you can also reheat the thawed muffins in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This will help to restore their crumbly texture and warm flavor.

• If you prefer a crispier crumb topping, place the thawed muffins under the broiler for a minute or two, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the coffee cake muffins on a baking sheet and cover them lightly with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Warm them for about 10 minutes or until they are heated through. This method helps maintain the crumb topping's texture and the muffin's moistness.

• For a quicker option, use a microwave. Place a coffee cake muffin on a microwave-safe plate. To keep it from drying out, you can place a damp paper towel over the muffin. Heat on medium power for about 20-30 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the muffin rubbery.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the coffee cake muffins in the air fryer basket and heat for 3-4 minutes. This method can help retain the crumb topping's crispiness while warming the muffin evenly.

• For those who prefer a stovetop method, you can use a steamer. Place the coffee cake muffins in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for about 5 minutes. This method helps keep the muffins moist without drying them out.

• If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the coffee cake muffins on a baking tray and heat for about 5-7 minutes. This method is great for achieving a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and warm.

• Oven: Used to bake the muffins at the specified temperature of 375°F (190°C).

• Muffin tin: Holds the muffin batter in individual portions for baking.

• Paper liners: Placed in the muffin tin to prevent the muffins from sticking and for easy removal.

• Large bowl: Used to mix the dry ingredients together.

• Whisk: Helps to combine the dry ingredients evenly.

• Another bowl: Used to mix the wet ingredients separately before combining with the dry ingredients.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, sugars, milk, and butter.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients like baking powder, baking soda, salt, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.

• Mixing spoon: Used to stir the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined.

• Toothpick: Inserted into the center of the muffins to check for doneness.

• Wire rack: Used to cool the muffins after baking.

• Small bowl: Used to mix the crumb topping ingredients.

• Fork: Helps to mix the crumb topping until it becomes crumbly.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and organize all ingredients before starting. This reduces prep time and ensures a smoother cooking process.

Use a mixer: A hand mixer or stand mixer can quickly combine wet and dry ingredients, saving you from manual mixing.

Make crumb topping in advance: Prepare the crumb topping the night before and store it in the fridge. This way, you can just sprinkle it on the muffin batter when ready to bake.

Batch baking: Double the recipe and freeze extra muffins. This way, you have a quick breakfast or snack ready to go.