Cinnamon Streusel Muffins Recipe

If you have a soft spot for morning treats that feel like a warm hug, then this Cinnamon Streusel Muffins Recipe is about to become your new favorite. These muffins boast a tender crumb bursting with cinnamon’s cozy spice, while a buttery, crumbly streusel topping adds that irresistible crunchy contrast. Perfectly sweet and comforting, each bite is a glorious dance of textures and flavors that makes breakfast feel like a special occasion—no fancy skills required!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple ingredients come together to craft the perfect balance of moist muffin and crispy topping. Every element plays its part, from the all-purpose flour giving structure to the cinnamon lending that familiar, heartwarming spice you love.

• All-purpose flour: The foundation for fluffy, tender muffins that hold their shape perfectly.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that lovely golden-brown exterior.
• Brown sugar: Brings a hint of molasses flavor and moisture to the muffin for depth.
• Baking powder: Your secret weapon for rise and lightness throughout the muffin.
• Baking soda: Works with the acids in brown sugar to help muffins lift beautifully.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives this recipe its signature warm and spicy aroma.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
• Unsalted butter (melted and cold cubed): Melted butter adds rich flavor in the batter, while cold cubes create the irresistible streusel topping texture.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps muffins moist and tender without weighing them down.
• Milk: Adds moisture and helps bind everything together smoothly.
• Large eggs: Provide structure and richness for a perfect crumb.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and brings out the cinnamon’s full flavor.

How to Make Cinnamon Streusel Muffins Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Muffin Tin

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get everything nice and hot for baking. Meanwhile, line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners—this little step makes cleanup effortless and keeps your muffins perfectly shaped.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Ensuring they’re well blended means every muffin will have that consistent burst of flavor and lift you want.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk melted butter, vegetable oil, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and combined. This mixture brings moisture and richness that will make your muffins not only tender but insanely delicious.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Batter

Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix and stir just until everything barely comes together. Be careful here; overmixing can make your muffins tough instead of soft and airy—remember, a few lumps are totally fine!

Step 5: Prepare the Streusel Topping

For that signature crumbly topping, combine flour, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a medium bowl. Then add the cold cubed butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to work the butter into the dry ingredients until it looks like coarse crumbs. This little step adds that wonderful texture contrast that steals the show.

Step 6: Fill Muffin Cups

Spoon the batter evenly into your prepared muffin tin, filling about two-thirds full to give room for the muffins to rise without overflowing. This ensures a perfect dome shape every time.

Step 7: Add the Streusel Topping

Sprinkle the crumbly topping generously over each muffin, pressing it ever so lightly into the batter. This helps the topping stick and bake into a crispy, buttery crown that’s just dreamy.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for 18–22 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops are golden brown. Your kitchen will fill with the most tantalizing cinnamon aroma as they bake.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes for easier handling, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step keeps your streusel crisp and prevents sogginess from steam trapped underneath.

How to Serve Cinnamon Streusel Muffins Recipe

Garnishes

These muffins are delightful on their own, but a light spread of softened butter or a drizzle of honey can elevate their flavor. For an extra touch of whimsy, dust them lightly with powdered sugar just before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair these muffins with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea for a comforting morning ritual. They also shine alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt if you’re aiming for a more balanced breakfast plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not transform your Cinnamon Streusel Muffins Recipe into a charming brunch centerpiece? Arrange muffins on a tiered serving tray, and accompany with small bowls of jam, cream cheese, and assorted nuts for a build-your-own topping bar that guests will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover muffins fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This preserves the tender crumb and keeps the streusel topping delightfully crisp.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these beauties later, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They freeze wonderfully for up to 2 months, making your future breakfasts a breeze.

Reheating

To bring frozen muffins back to life, thaw them at room temperature or pop them in a microwave for about 20 seconds. For that fresh-baked crunch on the streusel, briefly toast them in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.

FAQs

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

Yes! Whole wheat flour can add a nuttier flavor and extra nutrients, but it may make the muffins a bit denser. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for a great balance.

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

Absolutely. Substitute the milk with any plant-based milk like almond or oat, and use coconut oil or a dairy-free buttery spread instead of butter for a perfectly tasty dairy-free version.

Can I prepare the batter the night before?

It’s best to bake the muffins right after mixing for optimal rise and texture. However, you can prepare the batter the night before and refrigerate it, giving it a gentle stir before scooping into muffin tins.

How do I know when the muffins are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean or with a few dry crumbs, they’re ready. Also, the tops should be golden and the muffins spring back when lightly touched.

Can I make the streusel topping less sweet?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar slightly in the topping if you prefer. Just keep in mind it’s the streusel’s sweetness that balances the cinnamon’s spice and adds that addictive crunch.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about homemade muffins that bring warmth and joy first thing in the morning, and this Cinnamon Streusel Muffins Recipe does just that in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a cozy family breakfast or sharing with friends, these muffins offer a delicious blend of soft cinnamon-spiced crumb and irresistible crunchy topping that’s sure to become a cherished favorite. So grab your ingredients, follow these steps with a big smile, and enjoy the magic of baking these sweet, comforting treats!

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