Coffee Cake Muffins

These Coffee Cake Muffins are a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with your morning drink or afternoon tea. Soft, fluffy muffins with a cinnamon swirl and a buttery vegan streusel topping bring all the comfort of a traditional coffee cake without dairy or eggs. It’s quick to make so you can enjoy a freshly baked muffin in no time!

If you’re a muffin fan, don’t miss these delicious options: Blueberry Muffin Tops for a burst of fruity sweetness, Vegan Strawberry Muffins for a light and refreshing treat, and Vegan Breakfast Muffins for a wholesome, energizing start to your day.

My dear friend Lainey also has a delicious recipe for Vegan Cinnamon Raisin Bread, if you are looking for another tasty baking recipe.

Coffee cake muffins are a modern, twist on the classic coffee cake, offering the same rich flavors of cinnamon and sugar but in individual muffins. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a lighter, dairy-free treat that is as comforting and indulgent as their traditional counterparts. This vegan version retains the signature crumbly streusel topping and soft, moist interior, making them ideal for any occasion.

While these muffins can be enjoyed year-round, they are particularly popular during the colder months. The warm spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg, make them a perfect addition to cozy breakfasts and brunches during cooler weather.

Whether served as a special treat at a family gathering or enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee on a crisp morning, these muffins are comforting and the perfect treat to add to your next family get together.

Why You’ll Love This Coffee Cake Muffins

• Effortless and Quick: With minimal prep and simple ingredients, these cinnamon coffee cake muffins come together in no time, making them an easy baking choice.
• Perfectly Sweet: The cinnamon, sugar, and buttery streusel topping create a well-balanced sweetness that’s just right.
• Vegan-Friendly: Indulge in a delicious treat without eggs, dairy, or animal products, relying on wholesome, plant-based ingredients.
• Versatile: Customize the recipe by experimenting with different sweeteners or adding your favorite mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit.
• Deliciously Soft: These muffins are soft, fluffy, and boast a satisfying, moist crumb without feeling too heavy.

What Are Coffee Cake Muffins?

A coffee cake muffin is a portable version of a traditional coffee cake, offering all the delicious cinnamon and streusel flavors in muffin form. Historically, coffee cake was made with butter, eggs, and milk, but in this version, I’ve swapped those out with plant-based alternatives, making them perfect for anyone following a vegan diet. These muffins are great for brunch or as an afternoon snack.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• Sugar: Natural cane sugar adds sweetness to the streusel and muffin batter. You can substitute with coconut or brown sugar for a different flavor, which offers a richer, caramel-like taste.
• Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and helps balance the flavors in the streusel topping and muffin batter. You can use various salts depending on your preference, such as himalayan salt, sea salt, and kosher salt.
• Flour: All-purpose flour is used in both the streusel and muffin batter. For a gluten-free version, replace it with a gluten-free flour blend to maintain the right texture. You can also experiment by substituting a little of the flour for almond flour for a different flavor and texture.
• Cinnamon: This spice brings warmth and depth to the streusel topping and the swirl. Adjust the amount based on your preference for spiciness.
• Vegan Margarine: I use Earth Balance for the streusel topping and muffin batter. However, you can substitute it with vegan unsalted butter, vegan salted butter, or coconut oil, although it may have a slightly different flavor.
• Coconut Sugar or Brown Sugar: These sugars are used in the cinnamon sugar swirl, providing a mild caramel flavor. You can choose one based on your flavor preference or what you have available.
• Plant-Based Milk: Options like almond, oat, or soy milk work well for the muffin batter. Although, my favorite is either almond or soy milk, as they add a rich flavor and consistency to the final vegan coffee cake.
• Lemon Juice: Reacts with the plant-based milk to create a buttermilk-like consistency.
• Ground Golden Flax Meal: Acts as an egg replacer in the muffin batter. Ground chia seeds are also a great substitute with similar binding properties.
• Vanilla Extract or Vanilla Bean Paste: Both enhance the flavor of the muffin batter. Vanilla bean paste offers a more intense and aromatic flavor compared to extract.
• Baking Powder: Essential for helping the muffins rise. Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best results.

Allergy-Friendly Options

• Gluten-Free: Simply substitute the regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This will help maintain the texture and consistency without compromising flavor. I like to use Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 baking flour!
• Nut-Free: Replace almond milk with oat milk or soy milk. Both options will provide a creamy texture.

How to Make Coffee Cake Muffins

Step One – Make the Cinnamon Streusel Topping:

In a small bowl, mix the sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Using a fork, blend in the margarine until the mixture resembles the texture of sand.

Step Two – Make the Cinnamon Swirl:

In a small bowl, combine the coconut sugar (or brown sugar) with the cinnamon. Set the cinnamon sugar mixture aside.

Step Three – Make the Muffin Batter:

Wet Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the plant-based milk, fresh lemon juice, golden flax meal, and vanilla extract. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, allowing the milk to curdle.

Dry Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder.

Combine the Wet & Dry Ingredients: In a stand mixer or large bowl, cream the margarine and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the wet and dry mixture to the creamed margarine and sugar. The batter should be thick and consistent when thoroughly combined.

Assemble the Coffee Cake Muffins: Scoop a spoonful of batter into each muffin cup and sprinkle with the cinnamon swirl mixture.

Next, add the rest of the muffin batter on top. Sprinkle the cinnamon streusel topping on top.

Bake & Enjoy: Bake the muffins for 5 minutes at 425°F, then lower the oven temperature to 375°F. Continue baking for another 12-15 minutes or until the muffins are golden brown, and a toothpick inserted comes out clean with a few crumbs attached.

What Can I Serve with Coffee Cake Muffins

• Homemade Almond Milk: A smooth, plant-based, and vegan option that complements the richness of the muffins with its mild, nutty flavor. You can also try my homemade oat milk recipe for a delicious alternative.
• Vanilla Glaze: Take these muffins to the next level by adding a vanilla glaze. Mix powdered sugar and a few drops of water until you get the right consistency. Drizzle the glaze over your muffins and enjoy!
• Raspberry Jam: Offering a mild sweetness with a hint of tartness, this raspberry jam pairs beautifully with cinnamon coffee cake muffins. Its light flavor allows the muffins to remain the star while adding a fruity, layered depth.
• Warm Drink: Serve these delicious coffee cake muffins with a warm cup of tea or hot lemonade.
• Brunch Feast: Add these coffee cake muffins to your next brunch gathering. Serve with crispy baked hash browns, vegan pancakes, vegan sausages, or cinnamon raisin bread.
• More Muffins: Make a muffin themed party and serve these muffins along side vegan strawberry muffins, blueberry muffin tops, or my friend Lainey’s vegan banana chocolate chip muffins.

Tools and Equipment

• Stand Mixer: Although you can mix this muffin batter by hand, a handheld or stand mixer is a must-have for efficiently creaming margarine and sugar to the ideal fluffy consistency.
• Muffin Tin: The muffin tin promotes even heat distribution, ensuring your muffins bake evenly with a consistent texture and color. Consider using a non-stick tin or lining it with muffin liners for easy removal and cleanup. You can also make this coffee cake muffins recipe with a mini muffin tin to make mini muffins.
• Mixing Bowls: A large, deep bowl combines wet and dry ingredients without spilling. It allows for thorough mixing, helping you achieve a smooth and consistent batter. A bowl with a wide rim will make it easier to scrape down the sides and incorporate all ingredients thoroughly.

How to Store Coffee Cake Muffins

• Freezing: After the muffins have cooled completely, place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 350°F for 7-10 minutes to restore their freshness.
• Refrigerating: Store muffins in an airtight container to keep them moist. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days. For the best taste and texture, reheat before serving. You can use a microwave or oven, depending on your preference.

Tips and Tricks to Make the Best Coffee Cake Muffins

• Avoid Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can make the muffins dense. Stir just until the ingredients are combined for a light, airy texture.
• Test for Doneness: Bake muffins until they have a golden brown color. The muffins are ready when a toothpick inserted comes out clean with just a few crumbs, not wet batter.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Let your margarine and milk come to room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smooth, well-blended batter.

Nutritional Health Benefits of Flax Meal

Flax meal is a highly nutritious ingredient with essential omega-3 fatty acids, dietary fiber, and powerful antioxidants. These components contribute to improved digestion, support heart health by reducing inflammation, and help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Adding flax meal to your muffins enhances their nutritional profile and keeps them plant-based, offering a wholesome alternative for those seeking to increase their intake of plant-derived nutrients. (1)

FAQs

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

For best results, it’s recommended to bake these muffins fresh. However, you can prepare the wet and dry ingredients separately and combine them before baking.

How do I prevent the muffins from sticking to the tin?

To prevent your muffins from sticking to the tin, thoroughly grease the muffin tin with oil or non-stick spray. Alternatively, you can line the tin with paper muffin liners for easy removal and a clean finish.

What should I do if the muffins aren’t rising properly?

Ensure your baking powder is fresh, as old baking powder can affect the rise. Also, be sure to alternate adding the wet and dry ingredients to the batter carefully to avoid over-mixing, which can cause the muffins to be dense.

Why is my streusel topping not crumbly?

If the streusel is too soft or doesn’t form crumbs, try using a fork or pastry cutter to achieve the desired crumbly texture. If the streusel seems a little too wet, add a teaspoon or two of flour. Too dry, add a little more margarine.

Can I add a glaze or frosting to these muffins?

Absolutely! A simple glaze made with powdered sugar and some plant-based milk would complement the cinnamon flavor. Alternatively, top them with a vegan cream cheese frosting for a more indulgent treat.

Watch my Coffee Cake Muffin Recipe Video:

Looking for more muffin recipes? Try my vegan strawberry muffin recipe or these delicious blueberry muffin tops.

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Looking for a crumb cake recipe? Try my recipe for the best vegan coffee cake, apple almond cake, or vegan blueberry buckle.

Sources:

1. Adda Bjarnadottir, MS. “Flax Seeds 101: Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 28 Mar. 2019