When it comes to enjoying Dunkin’ Donuts coffee cake muffins, the options for pairing are delightful and varied. Picture this: a cozy morning, the smell of freshly brewed coffee filling the air, and a soft, sweet muffin sitting on your plate.
This muffin pairs exceptionally well with a hot cup of coffee, especially a medium roast that complements the sweetness of the cake. For those who prefer something different, herbal teas like chamomile or a fruity iced tea can also be a refreshing choice.
If you’re looking to add a little more variety to your breakfast, consider a side of fresh fruit. Berries, sliced bananas, or an apple add a splash of color and a nutritious punch to your meal. And don’t forget about yogurt; a dollop of vanilla or Greek yogurt provides a creamy contrast to the muffin’s crumbly texture.
Next, let me take you on an enthusiastic journey into the world of homemade Dunkin’ Donuts coffee cake muffin copycats.
As a self-proclaimed coffee aficionado and a die-hard fan of sweet treats, I’ve always found joy in those delightful muffins from Dunkin’ Donuts. They’re light, fluffy, and bursting with that signature coffee cake flavor. But buying them every time I crave one can get a little pricey. So, I set out to recreate that experience at home.
With a little trial and error, I finally crafted a recipe that captures that same magic. Today, I’m thrilled to share my version of the Dunkin’ Donuts coffee cake muffin copycat. It’s easy, delicious, and much cheaper than a daily coffee run. So grab your apron, and let’s embark on this baking adventure!
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What is Dunkin’ Donuts Coffee Cake Muffin?
At its core, a coffee cake muffin is a delightful baked good that combines the richness of cake with the portability of muffins. Dunkin’ Donuts’ rendition is famously known for its moist texture and crumbly topping, often enjoyed alongside a morning coffee.
The copycat version I’m sharing is inspired by this treat but made from scratch in your kitchen. You’ll find that it mirrors the original perfectly. This recipe features a fluffy muffin base infused with cinnamon and vanilla, topped with a crumbly streusel that adds texture and sweetness.
Why You’ll Love This Dunkin’ Donuts Coffee Cake Muffin Copycat
Let me tell you why you’re going to fall head over heels for this recipe. First, it’s customizable. You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even fruit to amp up the flavor. The versatility of this dish means it can easily transition from breakfast to dessert. Just because it’s called a coffee cake muffin doesn’t mean it’s only for mornings!
Second, baking these at home allows you to control the ingredients. You can use organic flour, cage-free eggs, and natural sugars if you prefer. This way, each muffin can also be tailored to your dietary needs.
Lastly, there’s something incredibly satisfying about pulling a tray of warm muffins out of the oven. The aroma will fill your kitchen and beckon everyone to gather around. You’ll likely hear compliments from family members, and trust me, you’ll feel like a baking superstar.
The Ingredients You Will Need To Make Dunkin’ Donuts Coffee Cake Muffin Copycat
Before your baking adventure begins, make sure you have all of the following ingredients on hand.
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Streusel Topping:
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup cold butter, cubed
These ingredients come together beautifully, yielding a muffin that is moist and delicious.
Directions to Make Dunkin’ Donuts Coffee Cake Muffin Copycat
Now that you have gathered the ingredients, let’s get started on the steps to making these delightful muffins.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures your muffins cook evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tin
Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or spray with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Make sure there are no lumps. This step integrates your leavening agents evenly throughout the flour.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to blend these ingredients until fully combined. The melted butter should be cooled slightly before mixing to prevent cooking the eggs.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 6: Make the Streusel Topping
In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cubed butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 7: Fill Muffin Liners
Spoon the muffin batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full. Sprinkle the streusel topping generously over each muffin.
Step 8: Bake
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool
Once baked, allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes:
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your muffins turn out perfectly.
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps with proper mixing. Cold ingredients will not blend well, leading to a denser muffin.
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing develops gluten and can cause tough muffins. Mix until just combined.
- Experiment with flavors: Add in chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to personalize your muffins.
- Check for doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, check your muffins a couple of minutes early to avoid over-baking.
- Store properly: Allow muffins to cool completely before storing in an airtight container to retain moisture.
Storage Tips
To keep your homemade coffee cake muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them for a longer period, consider freezing them.
Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy later, thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Hot Beverage – Pairing these muffins with a steaming cup of coffee or tea makes the breakfast experience cozy. Drizzle with a little honey or spread with butter for added flavor.
- A Side of Fresh Fruit – Add a mix of berries, sliced bananas, or even some citrus fruits. Fresh produce balances the sweetness and adds essential nutrients.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer your muffin pieces with yogurt and granola to create a delightful parfait. It’s visually appealing and adds protein.
- Dessert Style – These muffins can be enjoyed with a scoop of ice cream for a quick dessert. A warm muffin with cold ice cream is always a winner.
- Morning Snack – Pack these muffins in your bag for an on-the-go snack. They’re perfect post-workout or between meals.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Dunkin’ Donuts Coffee Cake Muffin Copycat?
- Flour Alternatives – If you’re looking to make these muffins gluten-free, almond flour or coconut flour can be used as substitutions. Just be mindful of the ratios, as these flours behave differently than regular flour.
- Dairy Alternatives – Almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk can substitute regular milk. This allows for a lactose-free version of the muffins without sacrificing taste.
- Butter Substitution – Instead of unsalted butter, you can use coconut oil or a plant-based butter. This swap works well for vegan diet preferences.
- Sweetener Alterations – Replace granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup. Remember, for liquids like honey, you may need to adjust the dry ingredients.
- Egg Replacement – To make these muffins vegan, consider using flax eggs (mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens) or applesauce.
Dunkin Donuts Coffee Cake Muffin Copycat Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
Ingredients
For the Crumb Topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter cold and cut into small pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3/4 cup pecans chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup new addition for a touch of richness
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg new addition for a warm spice note
For the Cake:
- 2 large eggs
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1/2 cup buttermilk or 1/2 cup milk + 1 teaspoon lemon juice, mixed and set aside for 15 minutes
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
Instructions
- Now that you have gathered the ingredients, let’s get started on the steps to making these delightful muffins.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures your muffins cook evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Tin
- Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or spray with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Make sure there are no lumps. This step integrates your leavening agents evenly throughout the flour.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to blend these ingredients until fully combined. The melted butter should be cooled slightly before mixing to prevent cooking the eggs.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture. Use a spatula to gently fold the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 6: Make the Streusel Topping
- In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cubed butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 7: Fill Muffin Liners
- Spoon the muffin batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full. Sprinkle the streusel topping generously over each muffin.
Step 8: Bake
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool
- Once baked, allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps with proper mixing. Cold ingredients will not blend well, leading to a denser muffin.
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing develops gluten and can cause tough muffins. Mix until just combined.
- Experiment with flavors: Add in chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to personalize your muffins.
- Check for doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, check your muffins a couple of minutes early to avoid over-baking.
- Store properly: Allow muffins to cool completely before storing in an airtight container to retain moisture.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave out the streusel topping?
Yes, you can skip the streusel if you prefer a simpler muffin. The muffins will still be tasty without it.
How do you know when muffins are done?
You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, they’re ready.
Can these be made in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bake fresh muffins right before eating!
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding extracts such as almond or lemon for added depth. You could also fold in chocolate chips or nuts before baking.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, doubling the recipe is a great idea for gatherings. Just ensure you have enough muffin tins or bake in batches.
What if my muffins come out too dry?
If your muffins turn out dry, it may be due to overbaking or too much flour. Next time, measure your flour with a spoon and level it off for accuracy.
Conclusion
Making a Dunkin’ Donuts coffee cake muffin copycat is an easy and rewarding experience. With simple ingredients and a few straightforward steps, you can enjoy a delicious treat that rivals store-bought muffins.
Remember, the best part is the ability to customize, whether it’s adding nuts or picking your favorite dairy alternatives. So, kickstart your mornings with these gems, and don’t forget to share with your loved ones. They might just love you a little bit more for it! Happy baking!