Lightened Christmas Coffee Cake

Tender, festive muffins swirled with cinnamon and topped with a crunchy streusel lighter in calories but full of holiday flavor.

This recipe has become a holiday staple in my home; the warm cinnamon aroma always starts our mornings off right.

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

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly coat with nonstick spray.

Step 2:

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Step 3:

In a separate bowl, whisk applesauce, Greek yogurt, oil, eggs, vanilla, and milk until smooth.

Step 4:

Add wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 5:

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon for the swirl.

Step 6:

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.

Step 7:

For the 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.

Step 8:

Bake for 20–22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9:

Let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pin

These muffins are always a hit at family gatherings bringing everyone together over coffee and conversation.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time 15 minutes Cooking Time 22 minutes Total Time 37 minutes

Required Tools

12-cup muffin tin Mixing bowls Whisk Measuring cups and spoons Fork or pastry blender Wire rack

Nutritional Information

Per muffin Calories 165 Total Fat 6 g Carbohydrates 25 g Protein 3 g

Pin

Enjoy these moist and flavorful muffins fresh out of the oven or lightly warmed the next day for a delightful holiday treat.

Recipe Questions

→ What makes these muffins lightened?

Using unsweetened applesauce and low-fat Greek yogurt reduces fat content while keeping the texture moist and tender.

→ How is the cinnamon swirl incorporated?

A mixture of brown sugar and ground cinnamon is added halfway through the batter for a warm, spiced surprise in each muffin.

→ What is the streusel topping made of?

The streusel is a crumbly mix of flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold butter, creating a crunchy contrast to the soft muffins.

→ Can I add extra flavors or ingredients?

Yes, adding chopped dried cranberries or walnuts enhances both texture and festive flair.

→ What baking equipment do I need?

A 12-cup muffin tin, mixing bowls, a whisk, measuring tools, and a wire rack for cooling are required for preparation and baking.

→ Are these suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this dish uses vegetarian-friendly ingredients including dairy, eggs, and no meat-based components.