2cupsall-purpose flour(substitute with 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if needed)
1tablespoonbaking powder
½teaspoonsalt
½cupunsalted butter, softened (or ½ cup coconut oil for dairy-free option)
1cupgranulated sugar
2large eggs, room temperature
1cupmilk(any variety works - dairy or plant-based)
2teaspoonsvanilla extract
For the cinnamon streusel topping:
½cupbrown sugar, packed
⅓cupall-purpose flour
1tablespoonground cinnamon
¼cupcold butter, cubed
½cupchopped walnuts or pecans(optional)
.For the glaze(optional):
1cuppowdered sugar
2-3tablespoonsmilk or coffee
½teaspoonvanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your WorkspacePreheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or spray with non-stick cooking spray. Having everything ready before you begin mixing will streamline the process and save valuable minutes.Step 2: Make the Streusel ToppingIn a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The secret to perfect streusel is keeping the butter cold – if it starts to warm, pop the mixture in the freezer for 5 minutes before continuing.Step 3: Mix the Dry IngredientsIn a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This even distribution ensures your muffins will rise perfectly and have consistent texture throughout.Step 4: Cream Butter and SugarIn a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Don't rush this step – proper creaming incorporates air into the batter, resulting in lighter, more tender muffins.Step 5: Add Wet IngredientsBeat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract. Gradually add the milk, mixing until just combined. The batter might look slightly curdled – this is completely normal and won't affect your final results.Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry MixturesGently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Over-mixing activates gluten and results in tough muffins, so use a light hand and stop mixing as soon as no dry streaks remain.Step 7: Fill Muffin CupsDivide batter evenly among prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full. A cookie scoop or ice cream scoop makes this process quick and ensures uniform sizing for even baking.Step 8: Add Streusel ToppingGenerously sprinkle the streusel mixture over each muffin, gently pressing it into the batter slightly so it adheres during baking.Step 9: Bake to PerfectionBake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Rotate the pan halfway through baking for even browning.Step 10: Cool and GlazeAllow muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. If desired, drizzle with glaze while still slightly warm for that classic coffee cake finish.