Elaine GordonAs someone who lives and breathes food, there are few things that bring me more joy than the aroma of freshly baked goodies filling the kitchen. Recently, I found a delightful treat that has become my go-to at the breakfast table:
Trader Joe’s Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins. There’s something magical about sinking your teeth into one while sipping on a warm cup of coffee. If mornings feel a bit sluggish, trust me, this combo can transform them into something special.
As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I’ve wondered—could I recreate these muffins at home? After countless attempts in my cozy kitchen, I landed on a copycat recipe that does them justice.
So, let’s dive into the world of these muffins, explore the ingredients, and uncover the easy steps to make them. You’ll want to keep your apron handy for this one!
What Are Trader Joe’s Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins Copycat?
Trader Joe’s Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins are fluffy delights infused with a rich cinnamon flavor and topped with a crumbly streusel. They are perfect for breakfast or whenever you need a little pick-me-up. My version packs that same comforting flavor without needing a trip to the store.
The Ingredients
Before we set out to make our muffins, let’s talk through the simple ingredients you’ll need. My version maintains the essence of the original while allowing you to create them at home. Here’s your shopping list:
Muffins
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ⅛ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup dark brown sugar
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup melted unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract (optional, adds depth of flavor)
Crumb Topping
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon white sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- Cinnamon Swirl
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
Vanilla Glaze
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/4 cup of chopped walnut
How to Make Trader Joe’s Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins Copycat
Before we jump into the step-by-step process, know that this recipe is surprisingly simple. Just a few bowls and tools, and you’ll be well on your way to muffin perfection.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with muffin liners for easy cleanup. These muffins tend to rise beautifully, so prepare for a treat!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sea salt, cinnamon, and dark brown sugar. This ensures the baking powder and soda are evenly distributed, which helps the muffins rise perfectly.
Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and both extracts. If you opted for that almond extract, now is the time to add it. This mixture will lend moisture and flavor to your muffins.
Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins—so embrace the lumps!
Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl
In a small bowl, combine the white sugar and cinnamon for the swirl. Set it aside for later.
Step 6: Fill the Muffin Cups
Fill each muffin cup halfway with batter. Add a sprinkle of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top (a teaspoon or so is perfect). Then, add more batter to fill to about ¾ full. Top with more cinnamon swirl mix and gently swirl it in with a toothpick to create a pretty design.
Step 7: Make the Crumb Topping
In a medium bowl, mix together the crumb topping ingredients until crumbly. It should feel like sand when you pinch it. Sprinkle this mixture generously over each muffin.
Step 8: Bake Until Golden
Pop the muffin tin into the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. The aroma will be enticing—I guarantee your family will come running!
Step 9: Make the Vanilla Glaze (Optional)
While muffins cool slightly, whisk the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream together to form a smooth glaze. Drizzle this over the cooled muffins for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
Here are some tips for muffin perfection:
- Room temperature ingredients help the batter mix more evenly.
- Don’t skip the almond extract; it enhances the fluffiness and depth of flavor.
- Use fresh cinnamon for the best taste—it’s worth it.
- Experiment with different add-ins like berries or chocolate chips instead of cinnamon.
- Allow muffins to cool briefly in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack to avoid mushy bottoms.
Storage Tips
Let the muffins cool completely before storing. They can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’d like to store them longer, freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge!
Serving Suggestions
Here are some delightful ways to enjoy your homemade muffins:
- With a Hot Cup of Coffee: There’s nothing like pairing these muffins with that fresh brew. Enjoy the contrast between the sweet and the bitter.
- Spread with Butter: A dab of softened butter on a warm muffin takes it to another level of deliciousness.
- Top with Whipped Cream: Serve your muffins with a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert option.
- Garnished with Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside sliced strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing bite.
- Accompanied by Yogurt: A side of Greek yogurt balances the sweetness and adds protein for a hearty breakfast.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Trader Joe’s Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins Copycat?
If you’re missing an ingredient or want to switch things up, here are some substitutes you can consider:
- Whole Wheat Flour: Swap all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a nuttier flavor and added nutrients. This will yield a denser muffin.
- Plant-Based Milk: Use almond, soy, or oat milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Replace brown sugar with an equal amount of honey or maple syrup; adjust the flour a little to help with the additional moisture.
- Coconut Oil: Substitute melted unsalted butter with coconut oil for a slightly tropical duo that works wonderfully.
- Chopped Pecans: Consider chopped pecans instead of walnuts for a different nutty topping that complements the flavors beautifully.
Trader Joe’s Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins Copycat Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
- Muffin tin
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ⅛ teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup dark brown sugar
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup melted unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon almond extract optional, adds depth of flavor
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon white sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- Cinnamon Swirl
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/4 cup of chopped walnut
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with muffin liners for easy cleanup. These muffins tend to rise beautifully, so prepare for a treat!
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, sea salt, cinnamon, and dark brown sugar. This ensures the baking powder and soda are evenly distributed, which helps the muffins rise perfectly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and both extracts. If you opted for that almond extract, now is the time to add it. This mixture will lend moisture and flavor to your muffins.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough muffins—so embrace the lumps!
- In a small bowl, combine the white sugar and cinnamon for the swirl. Set it aside for later.
- Fill each muffin cup halfway with batter. Add a sprinkle of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top (a teaspoon or so is perfect). Then, add more batter to fill to about ¾ full. Top with more cinnamon swirl mix and gently swirl it in with a toothpick to create a pretty design.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the crumb topping ingredients until crumbly. It should feel like sand when you pinch it. Sprinkle this mixture generously over each muffin.
- Pop the muffin tin into the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. The aroma will be enticing—I guarantee your family will come running!
- While muffins cool slightly, whisk the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and heavy cream together to form a smooth glaze. Drizzle this over the cooled muffins for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- Room temperature ingredients help the batter mix more evenly.
- Don’t skip the almond extract; it enhances the fluffiness and depth of flavor.
- Use fresh cinnamon for the best taste—it’s worth it.
- Experiment with different add-ins like berries or chocolate chips instead of cinnamon.
- Allow muffins to cool briefly in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack to avoid mushy bottoms.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Baking Trader Joe’s Cinnamon Coffee Cake Muffins Copycat is not just about creating muffins; it’s about savoring the process and the comfort food it brings into our busy lives.
The gentle aroma wafting from the oven, combined with the sound of a cozy morning playlist, creates an atmosphere of warmth.
So, whether you’re whipping these up for yourself, a family gathering, or just because it’s a Tuesday, know that you are making a treat that is both delicious and satisfying.
Grab your ingredients and enjoy a slice of warmth today! Happy baking!
