Save Tender, festive muffins swirled with cinnamon and topped with a crunchy streusel lighter in calories but full of holiday flavor
This recipe has become my go-to during the holidays because it balances indulgence with health consciousness perfectly
Ingredients
- Muffin Batter: 1 3/4 cups (220 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar, 1/4 cup (50 g) light brown sugar packed, 2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp fine sea salt, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/2 cup (120 ml) unsweetened applesauce, 1/2 cup (120 ml) low-fat Greek yogurt, 1/4 cup (60 ml) light olive oil or melted coconut oil, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/4 cup (60 ml) low-fat milk
- Cinnamon Swirl: 2 tbsp (30 g) light brown sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Streusel Topping: 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour, 2 tbsp (25 g) light brown sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 2 tbsp (28 g) cold unsalted butter diced
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly coat with nonstick spray
- Mix dry ingredients:
- In a large bowl whisk together flour granulated sugar brown sugar baking powder baking soda salt cinnamon and nutmeg
- Mix wet ingredients:
- In a separate bowl whisk applesauce Greek yogurt oil eggs vanilla and milk until smooth
- Combine batters:
- Add wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined Do not overmix
- Prepare cinnamon swirl:
- In a small bowl mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon
- Fill muffin cups:
- Fill each muffin cup halfway with batter Sprinkle each with about 1/2 tsp of the cinnamon swirl then top with the remaining batter Use a toothpick to gently swirl
- Make streusel:
- Combine flour brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl Cut in the cold butter with a fork or fingers until crumbly Sprinkle evenly over the muffins
- Bake:
- Bake for 20–22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean
- Cool muffins:
- Let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely
Save Our family gathers around the kitchen enjoying these muffins fresh from the oven making every holiday morning special
Notes
For extra festive flair add 1/4 cup chopped dried cranberries or walnuts to the batter Substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour for added fiber Serve warm for best flavor
Required Tools
12-cup muffin tin Mixing bowls Whisk Measuring cups and spoons Fork or pastry blender Wire rack
Nutritional Information
Calories 165 Total Fat 6 g Carbohydrates 25 g Protein 3 g per muffin
Save These lightened Christmas coffee cake muffins are a delightful treat that will brighten your holiday mornings
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I create the cinnamon swirl in the batter?
Mix light brown sugar and ground cinnamon together, then sprinkle half the batter with this mixture. Top with remaining batter and use a toothpick to gently swirl.
- → Can I substitute ingredients to make it healthier?
Yes, using applesauce and low-fat Greek yogurt reduces fat content without sacrificing moisture. You can also use whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- → What is the best way to achieve a crunchy streusel topping?
Combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold diced butter. Mix until crumbly, then sprinkle evenly over the batter before baking.
- → How should I store leftover coffee cake?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
- → Can I add extra ingredients for more flavor?
Yes, adding chopped dried cranberries or walnuts to the batter adds texture and festive flair.