Name: Cinnamon Muffins Crunch Topping
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 260 g bread flour, spooned and leveled; 200 g light brown sugar, packed; 2 tablespoons powdered milk; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, preferably Saigon or Vietnamese; 0.75 teaspoon fine salt or 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 240 ml whole milk; 160 ml canola oil or vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon salted butter, melted; 50 g light brown sugar, packed (for topping); 3 tablespoons bread flour (for topping); 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for topping); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for topping)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Introduction to Cinnamon Muffins Crunch Topping

There’s something magical about the smell of warm cinnamon wafting through your kitchen, isn’t there? My Cinnamon Muffins Crunch Topping recipe is not just another muffin; it’s a delightful treat that can brighten your day, especially when life gets busy. These muffins are perfect for hurried mornings or cozy weekends when you want to impress your family—or simply indulge yourself a bit. They’ll have you savoring every bite, and you might find their fluffy texture and crunchy topping irresistible. Trust me, these muffins will quickly become a beloved staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Muffins Crunch Topping

What’s not to love about these delicious cinnamon muffins? They come together in a snap and bake to perfection in just 22 minutes! You’ll adore their light and fluffy texture paired with that irresistible crunchy topping. Plus, the warm, comforting aroma fills your home, making it feel cozy and inviting. These muffins are also perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert—a versatile treat the whole family can enjoy!

Ingredients for Cinnamon Muffins Crunch Topping

Gathering the right ingredients is key to baking magic. Here’s what you’ll need for these delightful muffins:

Bread flour: A great base flour that gives muffins their fluffy texture. You can substitute it with all-purpose flour if needed.
Light brown sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture. You could use granulated sugar in a pinch, but brown sugar gives a richer flavor.
Powdered milk: This ingredient helps create a tender muffin. If you don’t have it, you can skip it, or use an extra splash of milk instead.
Baking powder: The leavening agent that helps the muffins rise. Always check the expiration date to ensure they work their magic!
Ground cinnamon: The star flavor of this recipe! If available, opt for Saigon or Vietnamese cinnamon for its bolder taste.
Salt: A pinch enhances all the other flavors. Kosher salt is a good alternative, adding the same great effect.
Ground nutmeg: Adds warmth and depth to the muffins. A little goes a long way, but it ties the flavors together beautifully.
Whole milk: For moisture and richness. You can substitute with almond milk or soy milk for a dairy-free option if desired.
Canola or vegetable oil: Provides moisture and helps keep the muffins light. You could use melted coconut oil for a different flavor twist.
Large eggs: These bind the ingredients together and create a fluffy texture. You can use flax eggs as a vegan substitute.
Vanilla extract: A splash adds a lovely aroma and enhances sweetness. Always grab pure vanilla for the best flavor.
Salted butter: For richness in the crumb topping. You could use unsalted butter and just add a pinch of salt instead.
Cinnamon crumb topping ingredients: More light brown sugar, bread flour, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract combine for the crunchy goodness that crowns the muffins.

You can find the specific measurements at the bottom of this article, available for easy printing, so let’s get to baking!

How to Make Cinnamon Muffins Crunch Topping

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Whisk together the bread flour, light brown sugar, powdered milk, baking powder, ground cinnamon, fine salt, and ground nutmeg until they’re well combined. This process is key for evenly distributing flavors. Then, create a well in the center of the dry ingredients to make room for the wet ones. This little dip will help mix everything together more smoothly!

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl or large measuring jug, beat together the whole milk, oil, large eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is fully blended. This step creates a smooth mixture that adds moisture and binds all the ingredients. Once done, you’re ready to combine it with the dry mix!

Step 3: Combine Mixtures

Now it’s time for the fun part! Pour your wet ingredient mixture into the well you made in the dry ingredients. Gently mix with a rubber spatula until just combined. Don’t worry if you see some small lumps; they add texture to your muffins! Scraping down the bowl sides and bottom will ensure there are no dry flour pockets hiding in there.

Step 4: Let the Batter Rest

Cover the bowl and let your batter rest at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This is a crucial step as it allows the flour to hydrate fully, leading to fluffy muffins. Trust me; those extra minutes are worth the wait!

Step 5: Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Pan

While the batter rests, preheat your oven to 220°C (about 425°F). It’s important to have the oven ready for baking, ensuring your muffins rise perfectly. Also, line a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners to make for easy removal later. Who wants a messy cleanup?

Step 6: Make the Crunch Topping

In a small bowl, melt the salted butter. Stir in the light brown sugar, bread flour, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until a cohesive crumb forms. You want it to look like wet sand but crumbly. This crunchy topping will give your muffins that delightful texture contrast everyone loves!

Step 7: Fill Muffin Wells

After resting, it’s time to fill the muffin wells. Divide the batter evenly among them, filling each nearly to the top. Be consistent here so that every muffin bakes evenly. A shiny, even muffin top always wins in the presentation department, right?

Step 8: Add Crunch Topping

Now, sprinkle the crunch topping generously over the muffin batter. Ensure you keep the topping away from the edges of the liners. This will prevent burning and keep the muffins looking tidy. Your muffins deserve that extra touch of finesse!

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Place the muffin pan in the oven and bake at 220°C for the first 7 minutes. Then, lower the temperature to 175°C (about 350°F) and bake for another 15 to 17 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick comes out clean from the center—golden perfection awaits!

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps prevent soggy bottoms. You can serve them warm, or let them cool completely if you prefer. Either way, they’re pure bliss!

Tips for Success

Always measure your flour correctly by spooning and leveling it to prevent dense muffins.
Let the batter rest for hydration; it makes a noticeable difference in texture.
Customize by adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor and crunch.
If you’re short on time, prepare the batter the night before and bake in the morning.
Keep an eye on baking times; every oven is a bit different!

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: A set of various sizes is ideal. You can use any large bowl you have on hand.
Whisk: Essential for mixing. A fork can work in a pinch!
Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding and scraping. A wooden spoon is a good alternative.
Muffin pan: A standard 12-cup muffin pan is recommended. Silicone pans are great for easy removal.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measuring is crucial for baking. Use your standard kitchen set for convenience.

Variations

Nutty Delight: Stir in a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch and flavor.
Fruit-Filled: Add diced apples, blueberries, or bananas to the batter for a fruity twist that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute bread flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a safe and delicious treat for those with gluten sensitivities.
Dairy-Free Version: Use almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk and coconut oil in place of canola oil for a dairy-free delight.
Spiced Up: Experiment with adding a pinch of cayenne or ginger for a spicy kick that pairs surprisingly well with cinnamon!

Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Muffins Crunch Topping

Serve warm with a smear of butter or cream cheese for a rich experience.
Pair with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai to complement the cinnamon flavors.
For a brunch gathering, arrange muffins on a decorative platter with fresh fruit.
Sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch before serving.

FAQs about Cinnamon Muffins Crunch Topping

Can I use regular flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, you can! While bread flour gives your muffins a wonderful fluffy texture, all-purpose flour will work just fine. Just make sure to measure it properly!

How can I make these muffins healthier?

To make a healthier version of these cinnamon muffins, consider reducing the sugar or using alternatives like honey or maple syrup. You can also substitute half the oil with applesauce to cut down on fat while keeping them moist!

Can I freeze these muffins?

Absolutely! These cinnamon muffins crunch topping freeze beautifully. Just cool them completely, wrap them tightly, and store them in an airtight container. They’ll be good for up to three months!

What can I add to the batter for extra flavor?

Feel free to get creative! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. These extras not only enhance the flavor but also add a fun texture.

How should I store leftover muffins?

Store your cinnamon muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer freshness, you can refrigerate them or freeze them as mentioned earlier!

Final Thoughts on Cinnamon Muffins Crunch Topping

In a world that often feels rushed, these Cinnamon Muffins Crunch Topping offer a comforting pause. Each bite bursts with flavors that wrap you in warmth, making every morning special. Whether shared with loved ones or enjoyed solo with a steaming cup of coffee, these muffins are a little hug from your kitchen. They’re easy enough for busy days yet delightful enough to impress at gatherings. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your home as it has to mine. So, let the aroma fill your space; happiness is baking fresh cinnamon muffins!