Cinnamon Streusel Muffins Recipe

If you love waking up to the irresistible aroma of warm spices and crumbly sweetness, then you are going to adore this Cinnamon Streusel Muffins Recipe. These muffins are the perfect blend of tender, moist crumb infused with cinnamon, topped with a delightfully crunchy streusel that adds texture and a burst of sugary cinnamon flavor in every bite. Whether it’s for a cozy breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a special occasion treat, these muffins bring a homey, comforting vibe that you’ll want to share with family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, everyday pantry staples come together in this recipe, each playing an important role in creating the perfect muffin texture and that cozy cinnamon flavor you crave. From the soft flour to the rich butter and aromatic cinnamon, every ingredient helps to build layers of flavor and texture.

• 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives your muffins structure and softness.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness that’s just right without overpowering.
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar: Brings moisture and a subtle molasses depth to the muffins.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the muffins rise to a fluffy perfection.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acids to give a tender crumb and good rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that infuses warmth throughout the batter.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moistness.
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the muffins tender and helps extend freshness.
• 1/2 cup milk: Moistens the batter, helping everything blend smoothly.
• 2 large eggs: Provide structure and richness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Offers a sweet aroma that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
• Streusel Topping Ingredients: 1/3 cup all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter cubed for that irresistible crumbly topping.

How to Make Cinnamon Streusel Muffins Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin

First things first, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners to make sure your muffins come out easily without sticking. This warm-up step ensures you’re ready to bake as soon as your batter is mixed.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Getting all these dry ingredients evenly mixed is key to making sure every muffin has that perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the melted butter, vegetable oil, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined. This mixture brings richness and moisture that will make each muffin tender and flavorful.

Step 4: Stir Wet Ingredients Into Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, folding gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Stir just until combined; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can make the muffins dense, and we want them light and fluffy.

Step 5: Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and cinnamon for the streusel. Add the cold, cubed butter, then use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This step creates that iconic crumbly, buttery topping that makes these muffins extra special.

Step 6: Fill the Muffin Cups

Divide the batter evenly among the 12 muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. This gives enough space for the muffins to rise without spilling over.

Step 7: Add the Streusel Topping

Sprinkle the prepared streusel evenly over each muffin, gently pressing it into the batter to ensure it sticks and bakes into a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft muffin underneath.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the muffins in your preheated oven for 18 to 22 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops have a golden aroma that will get your mouth watering.

Step 9: Cool Before Enjoying

Once baked, let the muffins sit in the pan for about 5 minutes—this allows them to firm up a bit before you move them to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling is essential to prevent the streusel from becoming soggy and to enjoy the full texture contrast.

How to Serve Cinnamon Streusel Muffins Recipe

Garnishes

These muffins shine on their own, but a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can add an elegant touch. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a spread of softened butter or cream cheese complements the cinnamon perfectly.

Side Dishes

Pair these muffins with a fresh fruit salad or a cup of your favorite coffee or tea for a complete, cozy breakfast or snack experience. The cinnamon and streusel flavors also go wonderfully alongside a creamy yogurt parfait topped with nuts and berries.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these Cinnamon Streusel Muffins Recipe delights on a rustic wooden board with a scattering of cinnamon sticks and fresh fruit slices. You can also make mini versions for a brunch buffet or pack them in pretty jars as thoughtful homemade gifts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. This helps maintain the fresh, tender crumb and keeps the streusel topping from getting too soft.

Freezing

These muffins freeze wonderfully! Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap, then place them all in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to 3 months, making it easy to enjoy your favorite breakfast treat anytime.

Reheating

To enjoy your frozen or refrigerated muffins warm, simply microwave for about 20-30 seconds or toast them lightly. This revives the soft interior and slightly crisps the streusel topping for a fresh-from-the-oven feel.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Absolutely! Using whole wheat flour will add a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it might create a slightly denser muffin. For best results, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat.

Is there a way to make these muffins dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and use almond milk or any other plant-based milk instead of cow’s milk. The texture and flavor will still be delicious.

Can I add nuts or fruit to the batter?

Adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans or mix-ins like blueberries or raisins can be a fantastic twist. Just fold them gently into the batter before filling the muffin cups.

What’s the best way to prevent the streusel topping from sinking?

Make sure the butter in the streusel is cold and cut into the dry ingredients evenly. Also, pressing the topping lightly into the muffin batter helps it stick and bake properly on top.

How do I ensure my muffins are moist and not dry?

Be careful not to overmix the batter. Stir just until the ingredients come together to keep the muffins tender. Also, measuring your flour correctly and including both butter and oil provides moisture that lasts.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Streusel Muffins Recipe is truly a keeper for any baking lover. It’s easy enough for a weekday treat but special enough to impress guests or brighten up a weekend morning. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and fall in love with its warm spice and crumbly, buttery topping just like I did. Happy baking!

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