Step 1

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Position an oven rack to the upper third of the oven. Line a standard muffin tin with paper liners.

Step 2

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, and baking powder. Set aside.

Step 3

In a liquid measuring cup, beat together the buttermilk, butter, eggs, and vanilla. Pour into the dry ingredients and stir until only a few streaks of flour remain. Stir in any desired add-ins, such as fruit or chocolate chips.

Step 4

If time permits, cover the muffin batter and allow it to rest in the fridge for 1 hour or overnight. This will produce more moist, tender, and tall muffins.

Step 5

Divide evenly among the muffin tin cups. Sprinkle each with coarse sugar, if desired.

Step 6

Bake until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 16 to 18 minutes.