Name: Irresistible Chocolate Chip Crumble Muffins for Cozy Mornings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: ½ cup Salted Butter (Can substitute with unsalted butter and adjust salt in the recipe.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Substitution: Brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.); 1 ½ tsp Vanilla Extract (Substitution: Almond extract can provide a different undertone.); ⅓ cup Vegetable Oil (Can replace with melted coconut oil.); 2 whole Eggs (Substitution: Flax eggs can be used for a vegan option.); ⅓ cup Sour Cream (Substitution: Greek yogurt can be used for a healthier alternative.); 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (Gluten-free all-purpose flour can be used for a gluten-free adaptation.); 1 tbsp Baking Powder (Make sure they are fresh for best results.); ½ tsp Baking Soda; ¼ tsp Salt (Enhances the flavors.); 1 cup Whole Milk (Substitution: Almond or oat milk can be used for dairy-free muffins.); 1 ¼ cups Mini Chocolate Chips (Regular chocolate chips can be used, but mini chips create better distribution.); ¼ cup Salted Butter; ⅓ cup Granulated Sugar; ½ cup All-Purpose Flour

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Stepping into the warm embrace of a bakery, the sweet aroma of freshly baked goods wafts through the air, wrapping you in a cozy hug. That’s the feeling I aimed to recreate with these Bakery-Style Chocolate Chip Crumble Muffins. These beauties aren’t just a treat for the eyes; they bring together a fluffy texture loaded with mini chocolate chips and a buttery crumble topping that adds an indulgent twist. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast or savoring them as an afternoon snack, these muffins are a delightful way to elevate your day and satisfy your sweet cravings. Plus, they’re quick to whip up and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Are you ready to transform your kitchen into a charming bakery? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe together!

Why Try Chocolate Chip Crumble Muffins?

Decadent and delightful, these muffins are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth! Easy to make, they require no special skills, making them great for all bakers. Versatile, you can swap out chocolate chips for your favorite fruits or nuts! Impressive presentation with a golden crumble topping, they look stunning served at brunch or enjoyed solo. Quick prep time means you can have freshly baked muffins in under an hour, making them perfect for busy mornings. For more baked treats, check out our irresistible Double Chocolate Peanut muffins or try these 3-Ingredient Chewy Chocolate wonders!

Chocolate Chip Crumble Muffins Ingredients

For the Muffin Batter
Salted Butter (½ cup) – Adds richness and moisture. Note: Can substitute with unsalted butter and adjust salt in the recipe.
Granulated Sugar (1 cup + ⅓ cup for crumble) – Provides sweetness and helps with browning. Substitution: Brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
Vanilla Extract (1 ½ tsp) – Enhances the overall flavor. Substitution: Almond extract can provide a different undertone.
Vegetable Oil (⅓ cup) – Keeps muffins moist. Substitution: Can replace with melted coconut oil.
Eggs (2) – Binds ingredients together and contributes to leavening. Substitution: Flax eggs can be used for a vegan option.
Sour Cream (⅓ cup) – Adds moisture and tanginess. Substitution: Greek yogurt can be used for a healthier alternative.
All-Purpose Flour (3 cups) – Provides structure. Note: Gluten-free all-purpose flour can be used for a gluten-free adaptation.
Baking Powder (1 tbsp) & Baking Soda (½ tsp) – Create leavening for fluffy muffins. Tip: Make sure they are fresh for best results.
Salt (¼ tsp) – Enhances the flavors.
Whole Milk (1 cup) – Hydrates the batter. Substitution: Almond or oat milk can be used for dairy-free muffins.
Mini Chocolate Chips (1 ¼ cups) – Adds sweetness and chocolate flavor. Note: Regular chocolate chips can be used, but mini chips create better distribution.
For the Crumble Topping
Salted Butter (¼ cup) – Adds richness.
Granulated Sugar (⅓ cup) – Sweetens the crumble.
All-Purpose Flour (½ cup) – Provides structure.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chocolate Chip Crumble Muffins

Step 1: Prepare the Crumble
In a medium bowl, combine ¼ cup of room temperature salted butter, ⅓ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of all-purpose flour. Use your fingers or a fork to mix until the mixture resembles sandy crumbs. Once ready, chill the crumble in the refrigerator while you prepare the muffin batter, ensuring it firms up nicely for that perfect texture.

Step 2: Make the Muffin Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of melted salted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 ½ teaspoons of vanilla extract, and ⅓ cup of vegetable oil until smooth and well combined. Next, add in 2 eggs and ⅓ cup of sour cream, whisking until fully integrated. Slowly mix in 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and 1 cup of whole milk until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Gently fold in 1 ¼ cups of mini chocolate chips for a deliciously sweet surprise.

Step 3: Rest the Batter
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the muffin batter rest at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes while you preheat your oven to 425°F. This resting time allows the ingredients to meld beautifully and improves the muffins’ rise, contributing to a delightful fluffiness that makes these Chocolate Chip Crumble Muffins irresistible.

Step 4: Prepare Muffin Tins
While the batter rests, line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners, ensuring they are well-fitted. Once the oven is preheated, carefully fill each muffin liner with the batter, filling them almost to the top for that delightful bakery-style look. Generously sprinkle the chilled crumble topping over each muffin, adding a delicious crunch to the finished product.

Step 5: Bake
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven at 425°F. Bake for the first 5 minutes to give the muffins a solid rise. Without opening the oven door, reduce the temperature to 350°F and continue baking for another 30-35 minutes. The muffins are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, promising fluffy goodness inside.

Step 6: Cool
Once baked, remove the muffin tin from the oven and allow the Chocolate Chip Crumble Muffins to cool in the tin for about 15 minutes. This cooling period helps the muffins set and makes them easier to remove. Afterward, gently lift them out and place them on a wire rack to finish cooling slightly before indulging in their sweet, warm deliciousness.

Make Ahead Options

These Chocolate Chip Crumble Muffins are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy mornings! You can prepare the muffin batter and the crumble topping up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the crumble and store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and crisp. For the batter, combine all ingredients, cover tightly, and refrigerate it as well. When you’re ready to bake, let the batter sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, fill your muffin tins, sprinkle with crumble, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have delectable muffins that are just as delicious as if they were freshly made!

Chocolate Chip Crumble Muffins Variations

Feel free to personalize these delightful muffins with your favorite flavors and ingredients!

Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy texture that complements the chocolate beautifully. Nuts add an irresistible richness and create a satisfying bite.
Fruit Boost: Substitute chocolate chips with 1 cup of fresh blueberries or raspberries. This fruity twist introduces natural sweetness and a wonderful burst of flavor in every muffin bite.
Coconut Dream: Replace ½ cup of all-purpose flour with shredded coconut for a tropical flair. This variation gives the muffins a delightful flavor and a lovely chewy texture.
Spiced Up: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice into the dry ingredients for a warm, cozy taste. This addition will remind you of freshly baked fall goodies.
Vegan Option: Swap the eggs for 2 flax eggs and use a plant-based yogurt to make these entirely vegan. Even without the dairy, the muffins remain deliciously moist and tempting!
Almond Flavor: Replace vanilla extract with 1 teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty aroma that pairs wonderfully with chocolate. This substitution will create a lovely twist to the traditional muffin flavor.
Extra Crunch: Top the muffins with sliced almonds before baking for an added crunch and a stunning presentation. The nuts will toast beautifully in the oven, adding both flavor and texture.
Spicy Kick: Craving some heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter for a surprising twist! The slight heat enhances the sweetness of the chocolate wonderfully.

For more sweet treats, you might also enjoy my Marbled Banana Bread or those incredible 3-Ingredient Chewy Chocolate delights!

How to Store and Freeze Chocolate Chip Crumble Muffins

Room Temperature: Keep the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and softness.

Fridge: For slightly longer storage, you can keep them in the fridge, but let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezer: Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap followed by foil, and store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or microwave for a few seconds.

Reheating: For a warm and delightful bite, reheat muffins in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or place in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

What to Serve with Chocolate Chip Crumble Muffins

Transform your delightful muffins into a complete experience with these perfect pairings that balance flavors and textures.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A zesty and colorful combination of seasonal fruits adds brightness, cutting through the richness of the muffins. The juicy bites provide refreshing contrast.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer some creamy yogurt with crunchy granola and berries for a wholesome breakfast. The smoothness of the yogurt beautifully complements the fluffy muffins.
Coffee or Tea: A steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee or aromatic tea enhances the comforting feel of your muffin moment. These warm drinks elevate the experience, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Scrambled Eggs: Savory scrambled eggs bring a protein boost and a satisfying warmth. Their light flavor complements the sweet muffins without overwhelming your palate.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A gentle drizzle of maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness and a delightful stickiness, creating an indulgent pairing experience you won’t forget.
Homemade Jam: Spread a layer of fruity jam on a warm muffin to introduce contrasting flavors. The sweetness and tang from the jam enhance each bite, creating a blissful balance.
Chocolate Milk: Reminiscent of childhood treats, a glass of chocolate milk mirrors the muffin’s chocolate goodness and adds a nostalgic touch to your breakfast or snack time.
Cinnamon Roll Icing: A subtle swirl of icing on top invites an extra touch of sweetness and creaminess while complementing the muffin’s crumbly texture.

Expert Tips for Chocolate Chip Crumble Muffins

Batter Resting: Give the batter time to rest. This small step enhances the rise and texture of your Chocolate Chip Crumble Muffins, leading to a fluffier result.
Use Fresh Leaveners: Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Old leavening agents can lead to dense muffins, robbing them of that light and airy texture.
Crumble Consistency: Achieve the perfect crumble topping by ensuring your butter is at room temperature. This allows for better blending with sugar and flour, resulting in a crisp finish.
Mini Chocolate Chips: Opt for mini chocolate chips instead of regular ones. They distribute evenly throughout the batter, providing a delightful chocolate hit in every bite.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing activates the gluten in the flour, potentially resulting in tough muffins instead of the desired tender crumb.

Chocolate Chip Crumble Muffins Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for the muffins?
Absolutely! For the best Chocolate Chip Crumble Muffins, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Ensure your butter is soft but not melted, as this helps create a light texture. When selecting eggs, choose ones that are farm-fresh or organic for flavor. And for your flour, always check the expiration date to ensure optimal baking results.

How should I store my Chocolate Chip Crumble Muffins?
Storing these delicious muffins correctly is key to keeping them fresh! Place your Chocolate Chip Crumble Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, freeze them for up to 2 months by wrapping each muffin individually in plastic wrap and then in foil, before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.

Can I freeze Chocolate Chip Crumble Muffins?
Yes, absolutely! Freezing your muffins is a great way to preserve their freshness. To freeze, follow these steps:

Allow the muffins to cool completely at room temperature.
Wrap each muffin in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
For added protection, wrap in foil or place them in an airtight container.
Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave for a quick warm-up.

What should I do if my muffins are dense?
Oh no! If your Chocolate Chip Crumble Muffins turn out dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter. Make sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Another possibility is your leaveners (baking powder and baking soda) being old, which prevents proper rising. Ensure they’re fresh and active before use for the lightest muffins.

Are these muffins suitable for dietary restrictions?
Very much so! You can easily adapt the Chocolate Chip Crumble Muffins for various dietary needs. For a vegan version, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water = one egg) and use plant-based milk and yogurt. For gluten-free muffins, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring the muffins maintain their fluffy texture.