Introduction
Welcome to the delightful world of homemade baking! Today, we’re diving into the comforting aroma of Coffee Cake Muffins. These muffins are the perfect blend of sweetness and warmth, making them an ideal companion for your morning coffee or an afternoon snack. With a soft and tender crumb, and a crunchy cinnamon topping, they’re sure to be a hit at your breakfast table or a lovely treat for friends. Let’s gather our ingredients and get started on this delicious journey!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 muffins
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners. This step will ensure your muffins come out easily and stay moist.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Setting these aside will allow the leavening agents to blend perfectly.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. The mixture should be pale and have a lovely, airy texture.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Mix in the sour cream until the batter is perfectly smooth; this will add a rich and creamy texture to your muffins.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if a few lumps remain.
- In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped nuts (if using) to create a deliciously sweet topping that will add a burst of flavor.
- Fill each muffin cup halfway with batter, sprinkle a generous layer of the cinnamon topping over each muffin, then top with the remaining batter, filling each cup nearly to the top.
- Finish by adding a bit more of the topping to each muffin for that irresistible crunch.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You’ll know they’re done when your kitchen fills with a heavenly aroma!
- Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before gently transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
If you want to add a fruity twist, consider folding in some fresh blueberries or chopped apples into the batter before baking. Additionally, to elevate the flavor, you can experiment with different nuts or even add a drizzle of glaze on top after they’ve cooled!
Cooking Techniques
Be mindful of your mixing techniques! When combining wet and dry ingredients, it’s essential to mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins. Also, make sure your butter is at room temperature to achieve that fluffy texture when creamed with sugar.
FAQ
Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Absolutely! These muffins store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, or you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up!
Can I substitute the sour cream?
Yes, you can use plain yogurt or buttermilk as a substitute for sour cream. They will both add a delicious tanginess and moistness.
Conclusion
There you have it—a simple, scrumptious recipe for Coffee Cake Muffins that’s sure to brighten your mornings and satisfy your sweet cravings. Whether you’re enjoying them by yourself with a hot cup of coffee or sharing them with loved ones, these muffins are bound to bring joy. So, roll up your sleeves and let the baking begin—your kitchen is about to fill with warmth and delightful flavors!