As I flipped through my recipe book on a rainy afternoon, a delightful scent wafted through the air, reminding me of cozy coffee shops and the warm comforts of home. That’s when I remembered my Bakery-Style Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins. These beauties not only use leftover sourdough discard, but they’re also packed with a sumptuous cinnamon sugar filling that makes them a perfect breakfast treat or afternoon pick-me-up. With their fluffy texture and impressive bakery-style appearance, they come together effortlessly in under an hour, making them an ideal choice for anyone tired of the fast-food routine. Plus, they’re sure to impress your family and friends—who can resist a homemade muffin? Are you ready to dive into the world of mouthwatering muffins?
Why are these muffins irresistible?
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of buttery richness and a sweet cinnamon filling ensures every bite is a heavenly experience.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these delightful muffins ready in just under an hour!
Versatile Options: Whether you use sourdough discard or an active starter, this recipe adapts to your kitchen needs, making it perfect for any baker.
Impressive Presentation: Their bakery-style appearance makes them perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts. Pair these muffins with a cup of coffee and consider checking out my Carrot Sheet Cake or Eggnog Bundt Cake for more delicious treats!
Crowd-Pleasing: They’re a surefire hit with both kids and adults, bringing smiles all around while you say goodbye to bland fast foods.
Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins Ingredients
For the Muffins
- Butter – Adds richness and moisture; feel free to use salted or unsalted depending on your taste preference.
- White Sugar – Brings sweetness and contributes to the muffin’s delightful texture.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; for best results, opt for pure vanilla extract.
- Eggs – Acts as a binder and provides leavening for a fluffier muffin.
- Milk – Adds moisture and helps the muffins rise beautifully.
- Sourdough Discard/Active Starter – Utilizes leftover sourdough while bringing incredible flavor and texture; no adjustments needed when substituting.
- Baking Powder – Ensures the muffins rise and achieve that perfect fluffiness.
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure, giving the muffins a satisfying bite.
- Brown Sugar – Deepens flavor and adds moisture, making them irresistibly soft.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling
- Flour – Serves as a binder in the filling, ensuring it sticks together.
- Ground Cinnamon – Imparts warm, spicy flavor that complements the sweet muffins.
- Melted Butter (for filling) – Combines with brown sugar and cinnamon, creating a luscious filling that you’ll adore.
For the Glaze
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and adds a beautiful finishing touch to your muffins.
- Vanilla Extract (for glaze) – Boosts the glaze flavor, making it extra delightful.
- Milk (for glaze) – Adjusts the consistency to your liking, ensuring it drizzles beautifully.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350℉ (175℃). While the oven is heating, prepare a muffin tin by adding large bakery-style liners to each cup. This not only helps with presentation but also prevents overflow during baking, leading to beautifully risen Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins.
Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the mixture resembles a crumbly texture. Set aside this delicious cinnamon sugar filling that will add a burst of flavor to your muffins, making them irresistible when baked.
Step 3: Cream the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Gradually mix in the vanilla extract, eggs, milk, and your choice of sourdough discard or active starter. Ensure everything is well combined for a rich and moist muffin base.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Next, gently incorporate the baking powder and all-purpose flour into the wet ingredients. Mix just until the flour is absorbed; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense muffins. You’ll want the batter to be smooth yet still slightly lumpy for the best texture in your Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins.
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Liners
Spoon the muffin batter into the prepared liners, filling each about halfway. Once filled, sprinkle a generous layer of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the batter. This will create a delightful cinnamon swirl when the muffins bake, enhancing their flavor and texture.
Step 6: Top with More Batter
Carefully spoon the remaining muffin batter over the cinnamon sugar layer in each liner, filling them to about three-quarters full. This ensures an ample rise during baking while keeping the filling perfectly tucked inside, resulting in moist and flavor-packed Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins.
Step 7: Add Final Cinnamon Sugar
Sprinkle any leftover cinnamon sugar mixture generously on top of the filled muffin cups. This topping will caramelize while baking, giving you a golden, crunchy finish that contrasts beautifully with the soft muffin interior.
Step 8: Bake and Cool
Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for a golden brown top and perform the toothpick test; it should come out clean. Once baked, allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 9: Prepare the Glaze
While the muffins cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk in a small bowl. Adjust the milk until you reach your desired glaze consistency; it should be pourable yet not too runny. This glaze will add a sweet finishing touch to your Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins.
Step 10: Drizzle the Glaze
Once the muffins have cooled completely, take your glaze and drizzle it over the top of each muffin. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving. Now, these mouthwatering Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins are ready to brighten your morning or become the star of your afternoon snack!
Storage Tips for Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins
Room Temperature: Store your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain their delightful fluffy texture.
Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the muffins for up to 7 days. However, be aware that refrigeration may slightly impact their texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months; just thaw before enjoying.
Reheating: To restore warmth and softness, reheat your muffins in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. A quick pop in the oven at 350℉ for 5-10 minutes works wonders too!
Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins Variations
Feel free to get creative with these muffins and make them your own. The possibilities are as delicious as they are diverse!
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Healthier Sweetness: Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar for a lovely, caramel-like sweetness that offers a touch of nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
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Nutty Crunch: Chopped Nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the fluffy texture and cinnamon filling beautifully. They bring a lovely richness that elevates every bite.
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Chocolate Delight: Choco-Muffins: For a twist, substitute some flour with cocoa powder, transforming your muffins into a chocolatey dream that chocolate lovers will adore!
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Fruit Explosion: Turn Up the Fruit: Fold in diced apples or ripe bananas for added moisture and a delightful fruity flavor that brightens your muffins. Just imagine the burst of flavor in each bite!
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Fruit Jam Swirl: Jam Surprise: Add a dollop of your favorite fruit jam or preserves in the center before baking. It creates a lovely surprise that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon.
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Spicy Kick: Add a Touch of Spice: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with the ground cinnamon for a warm, spiced kick that makes these muffins perfect for cozy mornings.
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Dairy-Free Option: Plant-Based Swap: Use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk, along with coconut oil in place of butter, for a delightful dairy-free muffin that still retains that comforting richness.
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Lemon Zest Twist: Bright Citrus: Add a bit of lemon zest to the batter for a zingy brightness that’s refreshing, perfectly balancing the sweetness of your muffins. Each bite will be a burst of sunshine!
Feel free to explore these ideas and let your culinary imagination run wild! And while you’re at it, why not accompany your muffins with a delicious drink, like a classic cup of coffee or a fragrant chai tea, reminiscent of cozy cafés? If you’re looking for more sweet delights, consider trying my Limoncello Ricotta Cake or a comforting Condensed Milk Cake.
What to Serve with Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins
Imagine the joy of transforming your cozy muffin delights into a full meal experience with irresistible pairings!
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits bring a refreshing contrast to the warm muffins, enhancing your breakfast table beautifully.
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Greek Yogurt Parfait: Creamy yogurt layered with fruits and granola adds a smooth texture and tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the muffins.
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Savory Eggs: A side of fluffy scrambled eggs introduces a savory dimension, creating balance alongside the muffins’ sweetness and enriching the breakfast spread.
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Flavored Coffee: Pairing with a cup of rich, aromatic coffee highlights the baked goodness of the muffins, creating a delightful morning moment.
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Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey over the muffins elevates their sweetness, bringing out the cinnamon notes even more while adding a touch of elegance.
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Herbal Tea: The soothing qualities of a warm cup of herbal tea provide a calming backdrop to the muffins, making for an enticing afternoon snack.
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Cream Cheese Spread: Smooth cream cheese adds a rich, tangy contrast, providing additional creaminess that perfectly complements the cinnamon sugar filling.
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Chocolate Milkshake: Enjoying a mini chocolate milkshake on the side turns this tasty snack into a delightful indulgence, especially for kids (and kids at heart)!
Expert Tips for Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins
Liner Choice: Use large bakery-style liners to allow for proper rising and to prevent overflow, ensuring your muffins look perfect.
Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter to keep your Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins fluffy. A few lumps are okay!
Baking Watch: Keep an eye on the baking time; when golden brown, remove them from the oven. Clean toothpick tests mean they’re ready!
Cool Before Glazing: Allow the muffins to cool completely before drizzling with glaze for that perfect finish and to prevent melting.
Flavor Variations: Experiment by adding nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for added texture or sweetness, taking them to the next level!
Make Ahead Options
These Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins are fantastic for meal prep and can save you precious time on busy mornings! You can prepare the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, brown sugar, and cinnamon) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can mix the wet ingredients (butter, eggs, milk, sourdough discard, and vanilla) and keep them refrigerated for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry ingredients, spoon the batter into muffin liners, and layer in the cinnamon sugar filling before baking. This way, you’ll enjoy warm, bakery-style muffins with minimal effort and just as delightful flavor!
Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe FAQs
Can I use any type of sourdough starter for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use either sourdough discard or an active sourdough starter in this recipe. If you’re using a discard, make sure it hasn’t been refrigerated for too long, as fresher discard tends to contribute better flavor and rise. No adjustments are needed in the recipe regardless of which type you choose.
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How long can I store the muffins, and what’s the best way?
Store your Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you prefer to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for about 7 days, but be mindful that refrigeration may alter their fluffy texture slightly. If freezing, place them in airtight containers or freezer bags, and they can stay fresh for up to 3 months.
What’s the best way to freeze these muffins?
To freeze your Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins, let them cool completely after baking. Once cooled, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Label with the date, and when you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. For a freshly baked feel, you can also pop them in the oven at 350℉ for 5-10 minutes.
What do I do if my muffins are dense?
If your muffins turn out dense, likely causes include overmixing the batter or not measuring your flour correctly. Always mix gently and only until just combined to maintain airiness. Also, ensure you spoon the flour into your measuring cup rather than scooping it, as scooping can compact it. If your sourdough starter is too old or inactive, this could also lead to less rise, so always check its freshness.
Are these muffins suitable for guests with allergies?
These Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins contain common allergens such as gluten (from the all-purpose flour), dairy (from the butter and milk), and eggs. If you’re baking for someone with allergies, I recommend adapting the recipe by replacing dairy with a vegan butter alternative and using a dairy-free milk option. You could also try an egg substitute like applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water, which works well in most muffin recipes.
Can I make these muffins vegan?
Absolutely! To make vegan Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins, substitute the butter with a vegan butter or coconut oil, replace the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit until it thickens), and use plant-based milk. For the glaze, you can mix powdered sugar with almond milk instead of regular milk. These small changes will help you create a delicious vegan version without sacrificing flavor!
Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins That Brighten Your Morning
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃) and prepare a muffin tin with large bakery-style liners.
- Combine brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon in a mixing bowl. Add melted butter and mix until crumbly. Set aside.
- Cream softened butter and white sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in vanilla, eggs, milk, and sourdough until well combined.
- Incorporate baking powder and all-purpose flour into the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Fill the muffin liners halfway with batter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar filling.
- Top with remaining batter, filling to three-quarters full, then sprinkle with leftover cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Whisk powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk to create glaze. Drizzle over cooled muffins.
- Allow glazing to set before serving.
