Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins

Sourdough coffee cake muffins bring back so many memories from my childhood. I remember the aroma of cinnamon filling the air, inviting me into the kitchen. As a family, we gathered around the table, enjoying warm, fluffy muffins right out of the oven. Each muffin, with its delicate balance of sweet and tangy flavors, never failed to spark joy.

Creating these sourdough coffee cake muffins became a weekend tradition. Mixing the batter while listening to music, I would sneak in a taste here and there. The excitement of seeing them rise in the oven always filled the room with anticipation. It’s not just about preparing a delightful treat; it’s about sharing joyful moments and creating lasting memories.

Baking with sourdough discard added a special twist. Using it not only reduces waste but enhances flavors in a delightful way. My love for these muffins only grows with each batch, making them a staple in my home.

Now, let’s dive into how to make the most scrumptious sourdough coffee cake muffins that will connect your family just like mine.

Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins

Fundamentals

Making sourdough coffee cake muffins starts with understanding a few key concepts. The base of this recipe comes from a traditional coffee cake, but the addition of sourdough makes this version uniquely special. By using sourdough starter or discard, you enhance the flavor profile while also keeping the muffins moist and tender.

The combination of a sweet coffee cake batter and a cinnamon sugar filling sets these muffins apart. The richness of the batter paired with the earthy notes of sourdough creates an irresistible treat for breakfast or dessert. These muffins are perfect for any occasion and incredibly satisfying.

Understanding the significance of timing in the recipe is also crucial. Allowing the ingredients to come to room temperature helps in creating a smoother batter. This simple step sets the foundation for muffins that rise beautifully and have a tender crumb.

Preparation/setup

Starting with a clean workspace prepares you for success in any baking endeavor. Gather all your ingredients beforehand, from the softened butter to the baking powder. This ensures you have everything ready for a seamless baking experience.

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready by the time your batter is mixed. Use muffin tins lined with paper cups or greased well to prevent sticking. Measure and prepare the ingredients accurately to yield the best results.

Set aside sufficient time to let the muffins cool before glazing, allowing their flavors to meld beautifully. Gather your favorite mixing bowls, a whisk, and a spatula, as these tools will help create smooth, well-mixed batter.

Ingredients

For the sourdough coffee cake muffins, you will need the following ingredients:

• ½ cup butter (1 stick, softened)
• 1½ cup white sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup milk
• ¾ cups sourdough discard or active starter
• 4 teaspoons baking powder
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1½ cup brown sugar
• 5 tablespoons flour
• 4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 6 tablespoons butter (melted)
• ⅔ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½-1 tablespoon milk

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your muffin tins.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring they are fully incorporated after each addition. Then, mix in the two teaspoons of vanilla extract.
4. In another bowl, mix the milk and sourdough starter until combined.
5. Gradually add the milk mixture to the creamed butter mixture, alternating with the dry ingredients: flour and baking powder. Mix until just combined.
6. In a small bowl, combine 5 tablespoons of flour, ground cinnamon, and melted butter to create the cinnamon sugar filling.
7. Fill muffin tins halfway with batter, followed by a spoonful of the cinnamon sugar filling, and top with more batter to fill the cups about ¾ full.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
10. For the vanilla glaze, combine powdered sugar, one teaspoon of vanilla extract, and ½-1 tablespoon of milk. Drizzle over the cooled muffins.

Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins: Secrets to Perfection

Technique

The technique used when baking sourdough coffee cake muffins plays a significant role in the final product. Start by creaming the sugars and butter until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air and helps the muffins to rise well during baking.

Mixing the dry ingredients separately and incorporating them gradually ensures an even distribution throughout the batter. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to dense muffins instead of the desired fluffy texture. The balance of wet and dry ingredients is crucial to achieve that perfect muffin crumb.

Using room-temperature ingredients helps everything blend easily and provides optimal texture. Ensure to scrape down the sides of the bowl as you mix to incorporate all ingredients evenly.

Tips/tricks

A few simple tricks can elevate your muffin game. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of salt, which brings out the sweetness in the muffins. If you love nuts, folding in some chopped walnuts or pecans adds an extra layer of texture.

Keep an eye on the baking time. Every oven is unique, so check the muffins a few minutes before the end of the baking time. This ensures you achieve a perfectly moist, tender muffin.

Consider experimenting with different fillings or toppings. Swapping the cinnamon sugar filling for a fruit filling or adding a streusel topping can offer new flavors and textures to your muffins. The possibilities are endless with this versatile recipe.

Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins: Fine-Tuning Your Bake

Perfecting results

To perfect your sourdough coffee cake muffins, make sure to monitor your portion sizes. Consistency in filling your muffin cups helps achieve uniform baking and appearance. Use an ice cream scoop or measuring cup for even portions.

For a golden-brown top, brush the muffins with melted butter immediately after baking. This adds richness and depth to the flavor while enhancing the shine of the muffins.

If you experience any muffin sinking or doming, it may be due to an oven temperature issue. An oven thermometer can help verify the accuracy of your baking temperature, ensuring consistent results every time.

Troubleshooting/variations

Baking can sometimes present challenges, but addressing them can lead to improved techniques and a better understanding of your oven’s quirks. If your muffins come out too dry, ensure you’re accurately measuring your flour. Scooping directly from the bag can lead to excess flour being added.

If the muffins are undercooked, consider extending the baking time slightly, but check them to prevent dryness. Adjusting the baking tray’s position in the oven can also help achieve more even cooking.

Variations can also breathe new life into this recipe. Use different flavors of extract, like almond or maple, to enhance the batter. Incorporating new spices or zest from citrus fruits can also create delightful flavor profiles.

Sourdough Coffee Cake Muffins: Presentation and Storage

Serving/presentation

Presenting your sourdough coffee cake muffins beautifully can really impress your guests. Arrange the muffins on a decorative platter or cake stand for an appealing display. Dusting with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar shortly before serving adds a lovely visual touch.

Pair the muffins with fresh fruits or a small bowl of yogurt for a delightful brunch spread. The contrast of flavors will impress everyone at the table, making your muffins the star of the meal.

Pairings/storage

Sourdough coffee cake muffins pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a refreshing herbal tea. Their sweet and tangy flavor complements the warm notes of the beverages. Enjoying them fresh out of the oven with family or friends creates a memorable experience.

To store your muffins, let them cool completely before sealing them in an airtight container. They can last for up to a week at room temperature or even longer in the refrigerator. Freezing is also an option, allowing you to enjoy these delicious treats in the weeks to come.

By following these guidelines, you can create perfect sourdough coffee cake muffins that bring joy to every bite.

The process of transforming simple ingredients into these delightful muffins connects families and creates cherished moments. The sweet aromas, delightful flavors, and warm textures of these muffins make them an irresistible treat. Whether enjoyed with loved ones or savored quietly over coffee, sourdough coffee cake muffins bring happiness into any home.

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