If you’re searching for a warm, comforting treat that offers all the delightful flavors of a classic cinnamon roll but with a fun, handheld twist, then this Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe is going to steal your heart. Imagine tender, fluffy muffins bursting with cinnamon sugar swirls, topped with a luscious vanilla glaze that melts in your mouth. Perfectly portioned and quick to whip up, these muffins bring that nostalgic cinnamon roll magic to your breakfast table or afternoon snack time with ease and charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to creating your Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe. Each one plays a big role: from the fluffy all-purpose flour and rich unsalted butter to the sweet cinnamon swirl that gives these muffins their irresistible character.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that provides structure and a tender crumb to your muffins.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning the muffin tops.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: The magic leavening agent that makes your muffins rise beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Brings richness and a moist, tender texture.
- 1 cup milk: Keeps the batter smooth and light.
- 1 large egg: Gives structure and helps bind all the ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a lovely warm note to the batter.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed: The heart of the cinnamon swirl with its deep molasses flavor.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The signature spice that makes this recipe unmistakably delightful.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for swirl): Enhances the gooey cinnamon filling inside each muffin.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For the sweet vanilla glaze to drizzle on top.
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (for glaze): Helps achieve the perfect glaze consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze): Rounds out the glaze with comforting flavor.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by warming your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial as a hot oven ensures your muffins will bake evenly and rise perfectly. Line your muffin tin with paper liners or give it a good spritz with non-stick spray to keep those beauties from sticking later.
Step 2: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Combine your flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt in a big bowl—this creates the dry base of your muffins. In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, egg, and vanilla extract until glossy and smooth. Then, pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want tender muffins, not tough ones!
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Swirl
Whip up your signature cinnamon filling by mixing brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter in a small bowl. This simple swirl packs a punch of sweetness and spice that will layer your muffins with that classic cinnamon roll flavor.
Step 4: Assemble the Muffins
Fill each muffin cup halfway with muffin batter, then add a generous spoonful of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top. Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter for that gorgeous marbled effect. After swirling, top off with more muffin batter, filling each cup about three-quarters full to allow space for rising.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your muffins into the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack—this helps them set and makes them easier to handle.
Step 6: Add the Glaze
While your muffins cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create a smooth glaze. Drizzle this over the cooled muffins for that irresistible shiny finish and an extra touch of sweetness.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts adds a delightful crunch that complements the soft muffin perfectly. You can also dust a little cinnamon powder on top to enhance that warm spice aroma, or add a dollop of cream cheese frosting for an indulgent experience.
Side Dishes
Pair these muffins with a cup of steaming coffee or a chai latte for the ultimate cozy combo. Fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples also provide a refreshing contrast that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe on a rustic wooden board with a small pot of honey or melted butter on the side for guests to customize their bites. For a brunch spread, nestle them amidst fresh flowers and greenery to elevate the presentation and make your table inviting and warm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain freshness. For best results, store them with a slice of bread inside the container; it helps retain moisture and keeps the muffins soft.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these muffins later, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to 3 months and thaw quickly at room temperature or in the fridge overnight.
Reheating
To revive that freshly baked feeling, warm your muffins in the microwave for about 20 seconds or pop them in a toaster oven at 350°F for 5 minutes. The glaze will soften and the cinnamon swirl will taste like it was just made.
FAQs
Can I make the cinnamon swirl vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute the butter in the cinnamon swirl with melted coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative to keep the recipe vegan-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
What type of muffin liners work best?
Standard paper liners are great for this recipe because they help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. If you prefer, silicone liners can also be used and are reusable.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
You can swap in whole wheat flour for a healthier twist, but expect the muffins to be slightly denser and less tender. Using half whole wheat and half all-purpose can be a perfect compromise.
Is it okay to skip the glaze?
Yes! The muffins are delicious on their own, but the glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and classic cinnamon roll charm. For a simpler option, dust them lightly with powdered sugar instead.
How long do these muffins stay fresh?
For best taste and texture, enjoy them within 2-3 days when stored properly. Beyond that, they may begin to dry out but will still be tasty when reheated.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe a try because it’s one of those delightful indulgences that feels like a warm hug in muffin form. Whether you’re serving breakfast to loved ones or sneaking a sweet treat during your afternoon coffee break, these muffins make every moment feel special and cozy. Happy baking, and here’s to many delicious, cinnamon-filled mornings ahead!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins 1x
Description
These Cinnamon Roll Muffins combine the sweet, comforting flavors of classic cinnamon rolls with the convenience of muffins. Soft, fluffy, and swirled with a cinnamon-sugar filling, they are topped with a simple vanilla glaze, making them a perfect breakfast treat or snack.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Swirl Mixture
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a muffin tin by lining it with paper liners or greasing it lightly with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry and wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Separately, combine the melted butter, milk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can make muffins tough.
- Prepare the cinnamon swirl: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter, stirring until well mixed to create the cinnamon swirl filling.
- Assemble the muffins: Fill each muffin cup halfway with the basic muffin batter. Spoon a dollop of the cinnamon swirl mixture into the center of each. Using a toothpick or skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter. Top each muffin cup with the remaining batter, filling them about three-quarters full to allow space for rising.
- Bake the muffins: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a muffin—if it comes out clean, they are ready. After baking, let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare and apply the glaze: While the muffins cool, whisk together powdered sugar, 2 to 3 tablespoons of milk, and vanilla extract until a smooth glaze forms. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled muffins for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the muffins tender and light.
- Adjust milk in the glaze to achieve your preferred consistency; thicker glaze will drizzle slower.
- You can substitute whole milk with any plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or raisins to the cinnamon swirl.
- Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
