There’s something wonderfully comforting about the scent of freshly baked goods wafting through the kitchen, especially when it involves the delightful blend of coffee cake and the tangy richness of sourdough. I was inspired to create these Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins when I realized I had a bit of sourdough discard sitting in my fridge, feeling neglected and in need of a new purpose.
With a dash of cinnamon, a sprinkle of brown sugar, and the butter melting like magic into the batter, these muffins marry the classic flavors of coffee cake with the unique depth of sourdough. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or a midday treat, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their homemade baking without the fuss.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just someone tired of the usual fast food routine, these muffins promise a delightful explosion of flavor in every bite. Let’s dive into this recipe, and I guarantee you’ll be savoring every crumb!
Why love Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins?
Comforting and indulgent, these muffins combine the tangy richness of sourdough with the sweet, warm notes of coffee cake. Easy to make, you can whip them up in just 50 minutes, making them perfect for any busy day. Crowd-pleasers at any gathering, their unique flavor and texture will impress friends and family alike. Versatile enough for breakfast or an afternoon snack, you can even drizzle them with a quick glaze for an extra touch of sweetness. Sourdough discard never tasted so good! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is a delightful way to use those leftovers.
Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffin Ingredients
Discover the key elements to create these delightful muffins!
For the Muffins
• ½ cup butter – adds richness and moisture to your muffins.
• 1½ cup white sugar – sweetens the batter for that classic coffee cake taste.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – enhances the flavor profile with warmth.
• 2 eggs – binds the ingredients together for a light texture.
• 1 cup milk – keeps the muffins moist and tender.
• ¾ cup sourdough discard or active starter – brings a tangy twist to the muffins.
• 4 teaspoons baking powder – provides the lift needed for fluffy muffins.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour – forms the base for the muffin structure.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
• 1½ cup brown sugar – adds a deep, caramelized sweetness.
• 5 tablespoons flour – helps thicken the mixture for a crumbly topping.
• 4 teaspoons ground cinnamon – lends a warm, aromatic spice that complements the batter.
For the Glaze
• 6 tablespoons butter – makes the glaze rich and buttery.
• ⅔ cup powdered sugar – sweetens the glaze and gives it a smooth texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – ties the flavors together beautifully.
• ½-1 tablespoon milk – adjust for your desired glaze consistency.
Get ready to indulge in the heavenly flavors of Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins!
How to Make Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins
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Mix the cinnamon sugar mixture by stirring together the brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon in a bowl. Pour in the melted butter and mix until well combined; then set it aside to thicken.
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Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃). While it’s heating up, place bakery-style muffin liners in your muffin tin to prepare for the batter.
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Cream the butter and white sugar together in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Add in the vanilla extract, eggs, milk, and sourdough discard, mixing everything together until smooth.
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Combine the baking powder and flour with the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just mixed; take care not to overmix, as this could result in dense muffins.
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Layer spoonfuls of batter into the muffin liners until they are about halfway full. Add a generous scoop of your cinnamon sugar mixture into each muffin, then top with another spoonful of batter. Finish with a crumble of the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture on top, pressing it down slightly.
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Bake the muffins for 25-30 minutes at 350℉ (175℃) until they are golden brown on top. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the muffins are ready.
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Glaze the muffins while they cool by whisking together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Start with ½ tablespoon of milk and add more gradually until you reach your preferred consistency. Drizzle it over the warm muffins and enjoy!
Optional: Top with chopped nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours ahead. Simply mix everything together and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. To maintain their delightful quality, it’s best to fill the muffin liners only before baking, as this keeps them fluffy. Additionally, you can make the cinnamon sugar mixture in advance and refrigerate it as well. When you’re ready to enjoy your muffins, simply scoop the batter into the liners, add the cinnamon sugar, and bake them for a warm, freshly baked treat that feels just as delicious as if you made them from scratch at the last minute!
Expert Tips for Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins
• Perfectly Fluffy Muffins: Avoid overmixing the batter; mixing just until combined ensures a light, airy texture in your muffins.
• Cinnamon Sugar Swirl: Don’t skimp on the cinnamon sugar mixture; it’s key for that delicious, crumbly topping that elevates the flavor of your Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins.
• Moisture Check: If you’re unsure about your milk measurement, start with the lesser amount and gradually add more, ensuring the batter isn’t too runny.
• Cool Before Glazing: Allow the muffins to cool for a few minutes before drizzling the glaze on top, preventing it from melting away into the warm muffins.
• Storage Secrets: Keep any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness for up to three days.
Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffin Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor these muffins to your taste buds for an even more delightful experience!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a deliciously fluffy alternative that everyone can enjoy.
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Nutty Goodness: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy texture that pairs beautifully with the moist muffin.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in 1-2 teaspoons of nutmeg or ginger for added warmth and spice, making each bite an adventurous experience.
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Fruity Surprise: Fold in 1 cup of diced apples, blueberries, or raspberries for a juicy twist that makes the muffins bursting with juicy flavor.
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Chocolate Lovers: Incorporate ½ cup of chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet, decadent treat that satisfies chocolate cravings in every bite.
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Maple Glaze: Replace milk in the glaze with maple syrup for a sweet and earthy twist, enriching the flavor profile of your muffins.
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Savory Twist: Add shredded cheese and chopped herbs instead of sweet toppings for a savory muffin that pairs perfectly with a hearty breakfast.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil in place of butter and a plant-based milk alternative for a delightful, dairy-free version that still tastes incredible.
Explore these variations to turn your Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins into a personalized delight, embracing the warmth and comfort that baking brings!
How to Store and Freeze Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins
Room Temperature: Keep Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring they stay fresh and moist.
Fridge: For longer preservation, store the muffins in the fridge for up to a week. Simply place them in a resealable bag or airtight container.
Freezer: To freeze, allow the muffins to cool completely, then wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or microwave for about 20 seconds until warmed through. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon sugar can enhance their flavor when reheating!
What to Serve with Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins?
There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of freshly baked muffins filling your home, inviting everyone to gather around the table.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of vibrant fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the rich muffins, enhancing their flavors beautifully. Think strawberries, blueberries, and citrus for a burst of color and sweetness.
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Creamy Yogurt: The tangy creaminess of yogurt offers balance to the sweet muffins, making it a perfect pairing for breakfast or brunch.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A touch of warm maple syrup adds a rich, buttery sweetness that beautifully complements the cinnamon notes of the muffins.
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Coffee or Tea: A steaming cup of your favorite brew elevates the experience, making each muffin bite feel like a cozy hug.
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Rich Hot Chocolate: For a sweeter treat, pairing these muffins with hot chocolate creates an indulgent dessert experience that’s perfect for a chilly afternoon.
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Whipped Cream: Lively and light, a dollop of freshly whipped cream can elevate each muffin to a new level of decadence, ideal for sharing.
Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe FAQs
What kind of sourdough discard should I use?
You can use either active sourdough starter or sourdough discard. Just make sure your discard isn’t too old—if it’s been in your fridge for over a week, check for any signs of mold or unpleasant smells. Fresh discard will give the best flavor and texture!
How should I store leftover muffins?
Absolutely! Store your Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just be sure they’re well-sealed to prevent drying out!
Can I freeze these muffins? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins! Allow them to cool completely and then wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or microwave for about 20 seconds until warm!
What if my muffins don’t rise properly?
If your muffins are dense, there might be a few causes. Ensure your baking powder is fresh; it should be within its expiration date. Also, avoid overmixing the batter after adding the flour, as this can lead to tough muffins. Lastly, make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature before baking, ideally using an oven thermometer for accuracy.
Are there any dietary considerations?
For those with dietary restrictions, you can modify the recipe to suit your needs. Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free option. If you have egg allergies, consider using flaxseed meal or applesauce as an egg replacement. Always check the labels of ingredients like baking powder for any allergens.
Can I add variations to the recipe?
Very! Feel free to get creative with your Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins! You can add chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even fruit like blueberries or diced apples for an exciting twist. Just keep in mind that adding wet ingredients, like fresh fruit, might slightly alter the baking time, so keep an eye on them as they bake.
Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins: A Warm Hug in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix the cinnamon sugar mixture by stirring together the brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon in a bowl. Pour in the melted butter and mix until well combined; then set it aside to thicken.
- Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃). While it's heating up, place bakery-style muffin liners in your muffin tin.
- Cream the butter and white sugar together in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Add in the vanilla extract, eggs, milk, and sourdough discard, mixing until smooth.
- Combine the baking powder and flour with the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just mixed.
- Layer spoonfuls of batter into the muffin liners until about halfway full. Add a scoop of the cinnamon sugar mixture into each muffin, then top with another spoonful of batter.
- Bake the muffins for 25-30 minutes at 350℉ (175℃) until golden brown on top. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when ready.
- Glaze the muffins while they cool by whisking together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Drizzle it over the warm muffins.