Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a delightful treat that combines the tender crumb of coffee cake with the hearty tang of sourdough, let me introduce you to these absolutely scrumptious Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins. These muffins strike the perfect balance of sweet cinnamon-sugar swirls nestled within moist, fluffy batter enriched by sourdough discard, making them the ideal comforting snack for breakfast or afternoon coffee. They’re a brilliant way to use up your sourdough starter discard and transform simple ingredients into a bakery-worthy delight you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting these muffins just right depends on a handful of simple, yet essential ingredients. Each one brings its own magic to the table—from the buttery richness and tender crumb, to the warm cinnamon notes and a delightful drizzle that finishes them off beautifully.

• Butter: Softened for the batter to add moisture and richness, plus melted for the cinnamon sugar mixture to meld those flavors perfectly.
• White sugar: Sweetens the batter while helping create a light texture when creamed with butter.
• Vanilla extract: Gives warmth and depth, enhancing the overall flavor complexity.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help keep the muffins tender yet firm.
• Milk: Adds moisture and works with the sourdough to keep the muffins soft.
• Sourdough discard or active starter: The star ingredient adds a subtle tang and boosts the crumb’s fluffiness.
• Baking powder: Leavens the batter, giving the muffins their rise and height.
• All-purpose flour: The main structure builder, giving these muffins their classic texture.
• Brown sugar: Combined into the cinnamon sugar filling, it adds a deep molasses sweetness and chewy texture.
• Flour (for filling): Helps bind the cinnamon sugar filling so it maintains its signature swirl.
• Ground cinnamon: Instills that irresistible warm spice that makes this coffee cake twist so comforting.
• Powdered sugar: For the vanilla glaze that adds the perfect sweet drizzle touch.

How to Make Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Filling and Topping

Start by stirring together the brown sugar, flour, and ground cinnamon in a bowl. When everything is evenly mixed, pour in the melted butter and blend everything until you get a crumbly, luscious mixture. This filling is the secret to that luscious swirl that makes these muffins stand out and will also top them off for that irresistible crunch. Be sure to set it aside while you move on to the batter.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Muffin Liners

Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃). Line a muffin tin with large, bakery-style muffin liners. Trust me on this—using big liners is essential to keeping the batter contained as the muffins rise up tall and proud. The liners make it easier to handle these treats once baked, and they give your muffins that gorgeous, rustic bakery look.

Step 3: Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the white sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—this helps bring airiness to the muffins. Then, add in the vanilla extract, eggs, milk, and your sourdough discard or active starter. Mix everything together until fully incorporated. Finally, gently fold in the baking powder and all-purpose flour, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to over-mix here, as keeping the batter slightly lumpy will lead to softer, fluffier muffins.

Step 4: Assemble the Muffins

Spoon batter into each muffin liner until it’s about halfway full. Then dollop a generous spoonful of the cinnamon sugar filling into the center of each muffin. Top each with another spoonful of batter, completely covering the filling. Now crumble the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture on top of the batter, pressing lightly so it adheres. Filling each liner to the top ensures these muffins bake tall with that beautiful cinnamon swirl inside and a crunchy topping outside.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Pop the muffins into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the tops turn a gorgeous golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep a close eye toward the end, as over-baking can dry these beauties out. The goal is moist, tender, and perfectly baked muffins with that signature tender crumb and cinnamon twist.

Step 6: Make the Vanilla Glaze

While the muffins cool, quickly whip up the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk. Start with half a tablespoon of milk and add more little by little until you reach a smooth, drizzle-friendly consistency. Once the muffins have cooled to just warm, drizzle the glaze over the tops for that final sweet, shiny touch. This glaze takes the charm up another notch and makes these Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins absolutely irresistible.

How to Serve Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins

Garnishes

If you’re feeling fancy or want to elevate your serving style, sprinkle a few extra dashes of cinnamon on top of the glaze or toss on some chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch contrast. A few fresh berries on the side can add a burst of color and refresh the palate beautifully.

Side Dishes

These muffins shine brilliantly alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea, naturally, but they also pair wonderfully with creamy yogurt or fresh fruit salad if you want to lean into breakfast vibes. For a cozy brunch, serve them with scrambled eggs or a cheese board—the sweetness balances savory flavors wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, consider presenting your Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins in a rustic wooden crate lined with a cozy linen napkin or in a tiered dessert stand to give them that bakery showcase feel at home. You can also slice muffins horizontally and fill them with a swipe of cream cheese or mascarpone for an unexpected, luscious surprise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled completely, store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and moist for about 2 to 3 days. Avoid refrigeration as it can dry them out, but room temperature is just right for maintaining their tender crumb.

Freezing

Want to enjoy your Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins later? Freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag. They’ll keep beautifully for up to three months. This way you can pull out a muffin or two anytime cravings strike without any waste.

Reheating

To reheat, simply unwrap and microwave for about 20–30 seconds, or warm them in a 350℉ oven for 10 minutes until heated through and slightly crisp on top. The gentle reheating refreshes the muffin’s tender crumb and revives the glaze glaze’s gooey goodness.

FAQs

Can I use active sourdough starter instead of discard?

Absolutely! Using an active sourdough starter will add a bit more rise and tang to your muffins, intensifying the delicious sourdough flavor. Just be sure to account for any differences in hydration within your batter.

What can I substitute if I don’t have sourdough discard?

If you don’t have sourdough discard, you can use plain yogurt or buttermilk to add moisture and a subtle tang, but keep in mind that the unique sourdough depth will be missing.

Why are large muffin liners important?

Large bakery-style muffin liners help contain the batter as the muffins rise and expand with the cinnamon filling inside. They also make the muffins easier to handle and give a professional, rustic look that smaller liners can’t achieve.

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Gluten-free baking requires a bit of experimentation, but you can try using a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture might vary slightly, so adding a little extra moisture or xanthan gum may help keep the muffins tender.

How do I prevent the muffins from drying out?

Don’t over-mix the batter and avoid over-baking—check them a few minutes before the timer’s up. Also, storing them properly at room temperature and not in the fridge helps retain moisture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins that makes every bite feel like a cozy hug. Whether you’re making them to brighten up your morning or surprise friends and family, these muffins bring together simple ingredients with that wonderful sourdough twist for a treat you’ll fall in love with. I can’t wait for you to make these and enjoy every delicious moment!

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