Grandma’s Coffee Cake Muffins
Introduction
Grandma’s Coffee Cake Muffins are the perfect bite-sized version of the classic coffee cake. These soft and moist muffins are swirled with cinnamon and topped with a sweet, buttery crumb topping that adds a delicious crunch. Whether enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee in the morning or as an afternoon treat, these muffins bring warmth and nostalgia to every bite.
Coffee cake has a rich history that dates back centuries. While it doesn’t actually contain coffee, it pairs beautifully with a hot cup of it. Originating in Europe, coffee cakes evolved from simple sweet breads into spiced and streusel-topped delicacies. Today, these muffins capture that classic coffee cake experience in a portable, easy-to-make form.
Ingredients
For the Muffins:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ cup melted butter
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 egg
For the Streusel Topping:
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
For the Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Make the Muffin Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and cinnamon.
- In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and egg until well combined.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins dense instead of fluffy.
Step 3: Make the Streusel Topping
- In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon.
- Stir in the melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Step 4: Assemble the Muffins
- Fill each muffin cup about ⅔ full with the batter.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of streusel topping over each muffin.
Step 5: Bake the Muffins
Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the muffins to cool for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 6: Make the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled muffins.
Formation of the Recipe
The idea behind this recipe comes from the tradition of coffee cake, which has been enjoyed in many cultures for centuries. By transforming it into muffins, it becomes more convenient and perfect for sharing. The key to these muffins is the balance of flavors—the rich cinnamon swirls, the buttery streusel, and the light drizzle of glaze.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Coffee Cake Muffins are a timeless treat that brings back the warmth and comfort of home. The soft, cinnamon-infused muffins combined with the crunchy streusel and sweet glaze make them an irresistible delight. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, these muffins are sure to become a family favorite.
Who Loves These Muffins?
- Coffee Lovers: These muffins are the ideal companion to a fresh cup of coffee.
- Bakers Who Love Nostalgia: If you cherish old-fashioned recipes, these muffins will take you back to cherished moments in the kitchen with loved ones.
- Busy Parents: They make a quick and satisfying breakfast for families on the go.
- Anyone with a Sweet Tooth: The cinnamon-sugar combination is simply irresistible.
Enjoy baking and sharing these delicious muffins!