Coffee Cake Muffins with Cinnamon SwirlSwirl

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If you love the warm, cozy flavors of classic coffee cake, these Coffee Cake Muffins with Cinnamon Swirl are about to become your new favorite treat. Imagine a soft, moist muffin layered with a brown sugar-cinnamon swirl and topped with a buttery crumb topping—perfectly portable and ready to brighten your morning or afternoon coffee break.

Each bite delivers a sweet cinnamon burst, thanks to the hidden swirl baked right into the muffin. Finished with a light vanilla glaze, they strike the perfect balance between dessert and breakfast. Whether you’re hosting brunch or just need a weekday pick-me-up, these muffins deliver all the comfort of a traditional coffee cake in a personal-sized treat.

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Why You’ll Love This Coffee Cake Muffins with Cinnamon Swirl

These muffins are everything you love about coffee cake, but more convenient and even more irresistible. They are soft, buttery, and filled with cinnamon spice in every layer. The crumb topping adds that ideal texture contrast, while the glaze gives a finishing touch of sweetness.

Great for make-ahead breakfasts or sharing at potlucks, they stay moist for days and freeze beautifully. Plus, they’re made from simple pantry staples and take less time to bake than a full coffee cake.

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What Kind of Cinnamon Should I Use?

Ground cinnamon is your go-to here. Opt for Saigon cinnamon if you want a bolder, spicier flavor, or stick with Ceylon cinnamon for a more subtle, sweet warmth. The cinnamon swirl and crumb topping are where this spice shines, so don’t skimp on quality—it makes all the difference.

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Ingredients for the Coffee Cake Muffins with Cinnamon Swirl

These muffins are made with easy-to-find ingredients, yet the combination creates a bakery-style treat that feels indulgent and homey.

• All-purpose flour: Forms the base of the muffins and crumb topping, giving structure and softness.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the muffin batter and crumb topping.
• Brown sugar: Key to the cinnamon swirl, giving it a rich, caramel-like flavor.
• Baking powder: Helps the muffins rise and stay fluffy.
• Salt: Balances out the sweetness and enhances all other flavors.
• Ground cinnamon: The star of the swirl and topping—brings that iconic coffee cake flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Provides richness and moisture; used in the batter and crumb topping.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients and give structure to the muffins.
• Milk: Adds moisture and helps blend everything together.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
• Powdered sugar and a bit of milk: For the glaze that finishes the muffins.

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How To Make the Coffee Cake Muffins with Cinnamon Swirl

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl

Mix together brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl and set aside. This will go in the middle of each muffin for that irresistible swirl.

Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping

In another bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Use a fork to mix until you get a crumbly texture. This will sit on top of the muffins.

Step 3: Mix the Muffin Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, milk, and vanilla, then slowly mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Muffins

Line a muffin tin with liners. Add a tablespoon of batter to each cup, sprinkle in a bit of the cinnamon swirl, then add another spoonful of batter. Top each muffin with the crumb topping.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 6: Glaze and Serve

Mix powdered sugar with a splash of milk until you get a drizzling consistency. Drizzle over cooled muffins and enjoy.

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Serving and Storing Coffee Cake Muffins with Cinnamon Swirl

These coffee cake muffins are best enjoyed slightly warm, when the cinnamon swirl is still gooey and the crumb topping has a soft crunch. Perfect for brunch, afternoon snacks, or even dessert, they bring that cozy, homemade bakery feeling to any occasion.

This recipe makes 12 standard-size muffins, making it ideal for families or small gatherings. To store, keep muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week. You can also freeze them individually for up to 2 months—just reheat in the microwave or oven when ready to enjoy.

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What to Serve With Coffee Cake Muffins with Cinnamon Swirl?

Fresh Fruit Salad

The natural sweetness and juicy textures of a fruit salad provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, spiced muffin.

Greek Yogurt Parfait

Layered with granola and berries, a parfait adds protein and creaminess that balances the sweetness.

Scrambled Eggs

A simple plate of fluffy eggs adds a savory touch to your breakfast or brunch spread.

Iced Coffee or Cold Brew

Pair your muffin with a refreshing glass of iced coffee for the perfect morning treat.

Spiced Chai Latte

If you’re in the mood for warm spices, chai enhances the cinnamon notes in the muffin beautifully.

Maple-Glazed Bacon

Sweet, crispy bacon with a touch of maple syrup complements the muffin’s flavors while adding a bit of salty contrast.

Cottage Cheese with Honey

A light, creamy side that’s rich in protein and subtly sweet.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Yes! These muffins stay moist for days, so you can easily make them 1-2 days in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Can I skip the glaze?
Definitely. The muffins are sweet and flavorful enough on their own. However, the glaze does add a nice finish both visually and taste-wise.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
You can, but it will change the texture slightly. For best results, use a mix of half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour to maintain moisture and lightness.

Do these freeze well?
Absolutely! Once fully cooled, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat as needed for a fresh-from-the-oven experience.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this recipe to your Pinterest breakfast or dessert board so you can come back to it any time.
Find more recipes on my Pinterest board, Meals We Share by Sally.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add any twists like nuts or apple chunks? I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Ask questions too—we’re here to help each other bake better.

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Conclusion

Coffee Cake Muffins with Cinnamon Swirl are everything you crave in a comfort food treat: warm, soft, and swirled with cinnamon goodness. They’re easy to make, great for freezing, and guaranteed to impress at any breakfast table or casual get-together. Whether you’re serving them fresh or saving a few for later, this recipe is sure to be one you’ll make again and again.

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