Name: Gooey Cinnamon Streusel Muffins Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/4 cup turbinado sugar; 1 tbsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp kosher salt; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup old fashioned rolled oats; 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened; 1/3 cup chopped toasted pecans; 3 tbsp melted butter; 1 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp kosher salt; 2 eggs, room temperature; 3/4 cup sour cream (can substitute whole plain yogurt); 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Print Recipe· 4.3 from 4 reviews

If you’re craving something sweet, comforting, and just a little indulgent, you have to try this Gooey Cinnamon Streusel Muffins Recipe. These muffins are seriously special—imagine moist, tender cake enveloping a luscious cinnamon filling, all crowned with a crunchy, buttery streusel loaded with oats and pecans. It’s the kind of treat that feels like a warm, cozy hug on a cool morning or a delightful pick-me-up any time of day. Once you bite into one, you’ll understand why these muffins have quickly become a beloved favorite in my kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat lay of various baking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. At the top left, there is a white bowl filled with flour with a black spoon inside. To its right, a white plate holds chunky white cubes of butter. Below the flour, a dark bowl contains two raw eggs with bright yellow yolks. Scattered near the bottom left corner are several beige paper cupcake liners. Centered near the bottom, a rustic bowl holds smooth white yogurt. Just above it, a small metal measuring cup is filled with pale rolled oats. To the right of the oats, a dark bowl contains whole pecans with rich brown shells. Below the pecans, a white bowl holds white granulated sugar with a spoon resting in it. On the far right edge, several cinnamon sticks lie grouped together. The entire setting is softly lit with natural light, giving a fresh and clean look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These simple ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite. Each one plays a crucial role—from the rich butter that keeps the muffins moist, to the cinnamon that adds warmth and spice, and the pecans for a satisfying crunch.

Turbinado sugar: Adds a subtle molasses flavor and a bit of crunch to the streusel topping.
Ground cinnamon (two amounts used): Infuses both the streusel and filling with that iconic spicy sweetness.
Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors so no bite is bland.
All-purpose flour (used in muffins and streusel): Provides structure and a tender crumb.
Old fashioned rolled oats: Adds chewiness and texture to the streusel topping.
Unsalted butter (softened and melted): Brings richness and helps everything hold together.
Chopped toasted pecans: Toasting brings out their nutty flavor and adds crunch.
Brown sugar: Contributes deep caramel-like sweetness to the cinnamon filling.
Baking powder and baking soda: Key to giving the muffins that perfect rise and fluffiness.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the muffin base evenly.
Eggs (room temperature): Bind ingredients and add moisture for a tender texture.
Sour cream (or whole plain yogurt): Adds tang and keeps muffins moist with a lovely crumb.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.

How to Make Gooey Cinnamon Streusel Muffins Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Streusel Topping

In a medium bowl, mix turbinado sugar, cinnamon, salt, flour, oats, and softened butter by rubbing the butter in with your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped toasted pecans to add a lovely nutty crunch. This streusel topping is what gives the muffins their irresistible crispy, cinnamon-spiced finish.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Filling

In a small bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until smooth and well combined. This filling creates little pockets of gooey, sweet warmth inside the muffins, making each bite delightfully surprising and decadent.

Step 3: Prepare the Muffin Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a 12-cup muffin pan with liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and baking soda and set aside. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the room-temperature butter, granulated sugar, and salt until light and fluffy—this usually takes about two minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition and scraping the bowl as needed. Then, mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until just combined. Finally, add the dry ingredients and gently mix until you no longer see dry flour.

Step 4: Assemble the Muffins

Fill each muffin liner halfway with batter. Using the back of a teaspoon, create a little well in the center of each muffin. Spoon in a scant teaspoon of the cinnamon filling into each well. Top with the remaining batter, smoothing the surface carefully. Finally, generously sprinkle the streusel topping over each muffin, ensuring you get that coveted crunchy top in every bite.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake the muffins for 22 to 25 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and the tops spring back when lightly touched. Allow them to cool in the pan for about five minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting step lets the muffins set and ensures that lovely gooey filling stays just right.

How to Serve Gooey Cinnamon Streusel Muffins Recipe

The image shows twelve unbaked cupcakes in a dark gray metal baking tray, each in a white cupcake liner. Each cupcake has two visible layers: a thick, pale yellow dough base with a rough texture forming the main bulk, topped with a dollop of dark brown, glossy jam or filling in the center. The tray rests on a white marbled surface, and the cupcakes are evenly spaced everywhere in neat rows. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Want to add a little extra flair? Dusting a light sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple glaze over your muffins brings an elegant touch. A small pat of butter or a smear of cream cheese can also take these muffins from fantastic to unforgettable as the butter melts into that warm cinnamon filling.

Side Dishes

These muffins pair wonderfully with a cozy hot beverage like chai tea, coffee, or a creamy latte. Serve alongside fresh fruit or a bowl of yogurt for a balanced breakfast or brunch spread that will impress your guests with minimal effort.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange these muffins on a rustic wooden board with fresh cinnamon sticks, pecans, and a small bowl of honey or jam. For a fun twist, serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside whipped cream as a comforting dessert. These little ideas take the Gooey Cinnamon Streusel Muffins Recipe from simple to show-stopping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any muffins left (which might be rare), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps them moist and the streusel crisp. Avoid refrigerating as it can dry out the muffins.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge or on the counter for a few hours.

Reheating

To revive their fresh-baked glory, warm the muffins in a preheated 350°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds. This warms the gooey cinnamon filling back up and gives that streusel topping a gentle crispness without drying them out.

FAQs

Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream in the Gooey Cinnamon Streusel Muffins Recipe?

Absolutely! Plain whole milk yogurt is a perfect substitute. It adds the same tanginess and moisture that sour cream provides and works wonderfully in these muffins.

How do I toast pecans for the streusel topping?

Simply heat a dry skillet over medium heat, add the chopped pecans, and toast them for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and slightly browned. Let them cool before adding to your streusel.

Can I make smaller or larger muffins with this recipe?

Yes! Adjust your baking time accordingly—smaller muffins will bake faster (around 15-18 minutes), and larger muffins may need 25-30 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid over-baking.

What’s the best way to make the muffins extra moist?

Using sour cream or yogurt ensures moistness, and not over-mixing the batter keeps the texture tender. Also, carefully measuring your flour prevents dryness.

Can I prepare the cinnamon streusel and filling in advance?

Definitely! You can make both up to 24 hours ahead and keep them covered in the fridge. Just bring the filling to room temperature before assembling the muffins.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Gooey Cinnamon Streusel Muffins Recipe enough for anyone who loves a delicious blend of soft, sweet, and crunchy all in one bite. It’s a recipe that feels special but comes together easily, perfect for weekend breakfasts, cozy brunches, or whenever you need a comforting treat. Once you try these muffins, they’ll undoubtedly become a cherished staple in your baking rotation!