Crumb cake muffins are the perfect fusion of a classic crumb cake and a moist, fluffy muffin, topped with a thick layer of buttery, cinnamon-scented crumbs. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast, a sweet snack, or an indulgent brunch addition, these muffins deliver the best of both worlds.
If you love the idea of a crumbly, spiced topping, you might also enjoy trying this Applesauce Crumb Cake, which offers a similar warm and moist texture.
Mastering the secret to moist muffins is essential for perfecting this recipe. If your muffins tend to be too dry or dense, check out this guide to moist muffins for expert baking tips.
Ingredients for Bakery-Style Crumb Cake Muffins
The secret to fluffy muffins with a perfectly crisp crumb topping is in the ingredients. Here’s everything you need:
Muffin Base Ingredients
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | Provides structure for muffins |
| Granulated sugar | Adds sweetness and tenderness |
| Unsalted butter | Creates a rich, moist texture |
| Eggs | Helps with structure and stability |
| Milk or buttermilk | Keeps the muffins soft and fluffy |
| Baking powder | Ensures a light and airy rise |
| Vanilla extract | Enhances overall flavour |
| Ground cinnamon | Adds warmth and depth |
Crumb Topping Ingredients
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Brown sugar | Gives a deep, caramel-like sweetness |
| Melted butter | Helps create a crumbly texture |
| Cinnamon | Essential for a spiced topping |
| All-purpose flour | Forms the perfect crumb consistency |
How to Make Crumb Cake Muffins (Step-by-Step Guide)
1. Prepare the Crumb Topping
- In a bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter.
- Stir in flour using a fork until it becomes crumbly.
- Chill in the fridge while preparing the muffin batter.
2. Make the Muffin Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and spices.
- In another bowl, mix melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. (Avoid over-mixing to keep the muffins fluffy.)
3. Assemble and Bake
- Fill muffin tins halfway with batter.
- Sprinkle a layer of crumb topping, then add more batter and finish with another layer of crumbs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
If you love breakfast pastries, you might also enjoy French Breakfast Puffs, which have a similar soft and sweet texture with a touch of cinnamon sugar.
Best Variations of Crumb Cake Muffins
Want to switch things up? Here are some delicious variations:
- Berry Crumb Cake Muffins – Add blueberries or raspberries to the batter.
- Chocolate Chip Crumb Muffins – Stir in dark chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
- Pumpkin Spice Crumb Muffins – Add pumpkin purée and warm spices for a fall twist.
- Nutty Crumb Muffins – Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the crumb topping for extra crunch.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Short-Term Storage:
- Keep muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions:
- Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
- Muffins turn out dry – Reduce the baking time or add a bit more milk or butter.
- Crumb topping melts into the muffins – Chill the topping before adding it to the batter.
- Muffins don’t rise properly – Ensure your baking powder is fresh.
If you enjoy baking, you may want to explore The 7 Basic Ingredients in All Cookies to understand the science behind baking ingredients.
FAQs About Crumb Cake Muffins
Can I Make These Without Eggs?
Yes! Substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce or mashed bananas for a moist, egg-free alternative.
How Do I Keep the Crumb Topping from Melting?
Refrigerate the crumb topping before adding it to the muffins to keep it from sinking into the batter.
Can I Use a Cake Mix Instead of Making the Batter from Scratch?
Absolutely! Use a vanilla or yellow cake mix as a base and prepare the crumb topping separately for a homemade touch.
Why Did My Muffins Overflow?
Filling muffin cups too high can cause overflow. Stick to ¾ full to allow for rising.
Final Thoughts
Crumb cake muffins are a delicious, bakery-style treat that you can easily make at home. With a soft, buttery crumb and a cinnamon-sugar topping, they’re perfect for breakfast, coffee breaks, or dessert.
Try different variations, experiment with toppings, and perfect your baking technique to make the best crumb cake muffins ever. Happy baking! 🍰✨