If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s quick and easy to make, these cinnamon streusel muffins are a must-try. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up these bakery-style muffins that are soft, moist, and topped with a sweet, crunchy cinnamon streusel. The best part? You can even customize them into blueberry cinnamon streusel muffins by adding frozen blueberries to the batter.
Transforming a simple boxed cake mix into delicious muffins with a cinnamon crumb topping, these muffins are a perfect breakfast or brunch option that can be ready in just 30 minutes. Despite their simple base, these cinnamon streusel muffins are a delightful treat that will surely impress your family and friends. Get ready to enjoy warm, freshly baked muffins that are both easy to make and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
Creating delicious cinnamon streusel muffins requires the perfect combination of batter and streusel toppings. Let’s gather the necessary ingredients to craft these flavorful treats.
Batter Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup buttermilk (or SEE NOTE for an alternative)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold
Equipment Needed
When making these delightful cinnamon streusel muffins, you won’t need anything out of the ordinary. Here’s a quick rundown of the basic equipment you’ll need to whip up a batch of these scrumptious treats:
- Muffin Tin: You’ll need a standard 12-cup muffin tin to bake the muffins.
- Mixing Bowls: Have two large mixing bowls on hand to prepare your muffin batter and streusel topping separately.
- Whisk: A whisk will come in handy for mixing the dry ingredients in the batter.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure you have measuring cups for liquids and dry ingredients, along with measuring spoons for precise measurements.
- Fork or Pastry Cutter: To combine the streusel ingredients until crumbly, grab a fork or a pastry cutter.
- Cooling Rack: A cooling rack is essential for cooling the muffins after baking to prevent them from getting soggy on the bottom.
With these simple kitchen tools and equipment, you’ll be all set to create these irresistible cinnamon streusel muffins that are sure to be a hit at any breakfast table or brunch gathering.
Preparation Steps
Preparing the Batter
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set this dry mixture aside for later use.
In a separate large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time for a smooth texture.
Add milk and vanilla to the butter-sugar mixture using a wooden spoon to stir until fully incorporated.
Gently combine the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir just until combined; don’t worry if you see small streaks of flour – it’s okay.
Scoop the batter into prepared muffin tin, filling each cup generously. Press down firmly on the tops after sprinkling with streusel to ensure it sticks. The cups should be full once the streusel topping is added.
Bake the muffins at 425°F for 5 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F. Continue baking for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The initial high heat helps create a beautiful muffin dome.
Allow the muffins to cool for 5 minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Streusel
To prepare the cinnamon streusel topping, start by melting (and then cooling) unsalted butter until it reaches a liquid state without being hot.
In a bowl, combine the melted butter with brown sugar to give the streusel its signature caramel flavor.
Sprinkle this crumbly streusel topping generously over the muffin batter before baking for a sweet and crunchy finish.
After baking, feel free to sprinkle a little turbinado or demerara sugar on the tops for an extra sweet crunch and a beautiful presentation.
Baking Instructions
Assembling the Muffins
To assemble the cinnamon streusel muffins, start by preheating the oven to 375 degrees and lining a muffin tin with paper liners. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients, while in a smaller bowl, mix the milk, butter, eggs, and vanilla. Combine the wet and dry mixtures until you have a thick, smooth batter. Proceed to create the crumb topping and the cinnamon swirl. Then, layer the batter, cinnamon sugar mixture, and crumb topping in the muffin tin, filling each cavity three-quarters full for perfect muffins.
Baking Time and Temperature
For ideal results, bake the assembled muffins at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake them for an initial 10 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit to help them rise quickly, then reduce the temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for a further 5-10 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This process ensures beautifully domed, moist cinnamon streusel muffins with a perfect crumb topping.
Customization Options
Make-Ahead and Storage
When it comes to cinnamon streusel muffins, knowing how to store and freeze them can ensure you always have a delicious treat within reach. Follow these tips to keep your muffins fresh and ready to enjoy.
How to Store
To keep your cinnamon streusel muffins fresh for a few days, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. However, if you prefer to extend their shelf life up to a week, refrigerate them in the same manner. Just remember, refrigeration can slightly alter their flavor and texture.
How to Freeze
If you have extra muffins or want to save some for later, freezing them is the way to go. Place the muffins on a baking sheet and freeze them for about an hour until they are frozen solid. Then, transfer the muffins to a freezersafe zip bag and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat the muffins in the microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Conclusion
Creating delicious cinnamon streusel muffins using a boxed cake mix is a simple and rewarding process. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily whip up bakery-style treats with a delightful crunchy topping. Whether you choose to add blueberries for an extra burst of flavor or stick to the classic recipe, these muffins are sure to impress. Remember to store them properly in airtight containers or the refrigerator for lasting freshness. With the option to freeze and reheat them later, you can enjoy these scrumptious muffins at any time. Start baking and indulge in the irresistible aroma and taste of homemade cinnamon streusel muffins!