If you have a soft spot for warm, comforting treats that combine the best of breakfast and dessert, this Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe is going to become your new obsession. Imagine the swirls of cinnamon and brown sugar captured in a fluffy muffin form, with just the right balance of sweetness and spice baked to golden perfection. These muffins are simple to make yet packed with flavor, perfect for sharing with friends, sneaking a snack, or making your mornings a little more special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients sets the foundation for these irresistible muffins. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, sweetness, and rich cinnamon flavor that defines this recipe.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the soft yet sturdy structure for the muffins.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: This helps the muffins rise beautifully, giving them a light and airy crumb.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds essential sweetness that balances the cinnamon’s warmth.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The star spice that delivers that classic cinnamon roll flavor throughout.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances overall flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 1 cup whole milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender, adding richness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted): Brings a rich, buttery taste and lush texture.
- 2 large eggs (room temperature): Binds ingredients together and helps with the rise and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for filling): Mixed with cinnamon, this creates sweet, caramelized pockets in each bite.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start things off right by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining your muffin tin with paper liners. This prep guarantees your muffins bake evenly and are easy to remove, making for a smooth baking experience.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl. Mixing these first ensures that the rising agents and spices are evenly distributed, which is key for consistent flavor in every muffin.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, blend the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until completely smooth. This mixture will add richness and moisture, creating that tender crumb we all love in a cinnamon roll-inspired muffin.
Step 4: Bring It Together
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here; a few lumps are totally fine and help keep the muffins light and fluffy instead of dense.
Step 5: Add the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl Filling
Mix the brown sugar and cinnamon together for the filling in a small bowl. Swirl half of this mixture into the muffin batter, then add the remaining batter on top so every muffin has those delicious pockets of cinnamon-sugar goodness.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full and pop your tin into the oven. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes or until the tops turn a lovely golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The sweet, cinnamony scent make this the best part of the day!
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
A generous drizzle of cream cheese glaze or a simple dusting of powdered sugar transforms these muffins into something truly spectacular. You can also sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top before serving to amp up the aroma and eye appeal.
Side Dishes
Pair these muffins with a hot cup of coffee or a creamy latte to balance the sweetness and warm spices. Fresh fruit like berries or a smoothie also complements the muffins beautifully, adding a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these muffins in a rustic wooden basket lined with a colorful napkin for a charming brunch spread. You can also slice them in half and add a smear of cream cheese or butter for an indulgent treat that looks as good as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them soft and flavorful. Beyond that, they might start to dry out, so best to enjoy them fresh or store them properly for longer.
Freezing
These muffins freeze beautifully! Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months, so you can enjoy a cinnamon roll-inspired breakfast anytime you like.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy a frozen muffin, thaw it at room temperature or microwave it briefly for about 20 seconds. This quick reheat brings back that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth and soft texture you crave.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour?
All-purpose flour is best for this recipe as it balances structure and tenderness. However, you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, but expect a denser texture.
Is it possible to make these muffins dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the whole milk with almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative. The texture may be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the batter?
Yes, adding chopped pecans, walnuts, or raisins is a great way to add texture and flavor variety. Mix about 1/2 cup into the batter before filling the muffin cups.
How can I make these muffins more indulgent?
Top them with a cream cheese frosting or a drizzle of caramel sauce after baking to take these cinnamon rolls muffins to the next level of decadence.
Will this recipe work without the cinnamon swirl?
While the cinnamon swirl is the signature element, you can skip it if needed. The muffins will still be tasty but won’t have the same cinnamon roll character that makes this Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe so special.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about turning a favorite classic like cinnamon rolls into easy-to-eat muffins, and this Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe does exactly that with style and simplicity. Whether you’re baking for your family’s breakfast or need a delightful snack, these muffins are sure to bring smiles and warm moments. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these soft and flavorful Cinnamon Roll Muffins that perfectly capture the essence of classic cinnamon rolls in a convenient muffin form. With a tender crumb, swirled cinnamon sugar filling, and a hint of vanilla, these muffins are ideal for breakfast or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Filling
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (mixed with brown sugar for filling)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners to prevent sticking and make removal easy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt until well combined to ensure even distribution of leavening and spices.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the whole milk, melted unsalted butter, room temperature eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.
- Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing and tough muffins.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Filling: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon for the filling. Swirl half of this cinnamon sugar mixture into the muffin batter carefully.
- Fill Muffin Cups and Add Filling: Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with batter, then add more batter on top to cover the cinnamon filling swirl.
- Bake the Muffins: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely or serve warm.
Notes
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature to help incorporate air for fluffier muffins.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep muffins tender and light.
- You can add a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk for extra sweetness.
- For a healthier version, substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
- These muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
