Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe

Fluffy Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe: Sweet Morning Magic

Mornings bloom with warmth when fresh cinnamon roll muffins emerge from the kitchen, promising a delightful twist on a classic breakfast treat.

Sweet swirls of cinnamon roll muffins dance through soft, pillowy dough that melts in your mouth.

Tender crumbs carry hints of brown sugar and warm spices, creating an irresistible aroma that fills every corner of the room.

The magic happens when traditional cinnamon roll flavors meet the convenient shape of a muffin, making breakfast both nostalgic and exciting.

Each bite delivers a perfectly balanced blend of comfort and indulgence.

These muffins offer a quick escape from ordinary breakfast routines, transforming a simple morning into a delectable celebration.

Prepare to savor every delicious moment of this irresistible morning delight.

What Makes Cinnamon Roll Muffins Craveable

  • Unlock Bakery-Style Delights: Create professional-looking muffins with restaurant-quality taste right in your home kitchen, impressing family and friends without needing advanced baking skills.
  • Customize with Ease: Modify the recipe by adjusting spice levels, adding nuts, or experimenting with different glazes to match personal preferences and make the recipe uniquely yours.
  • Quick Weekend Comfort: Whip up these irresistible muffins in less than an hour, transforming a ordinary morning into a special breakfast or delightful afternoon snack that everyone will love.
  • No-Fuss Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, brunches, or casual gatherings, these muffins offer a foolproof dessert that appeals to both kids and adults with their soft texture and sweet cinnamon flavor.

Cinnamon Muffin Ingredient List

Dry Ingredients:
  • All Purpose Flour: Soft and fluffy base for our delicious muffins.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweet crystal that adds perfect sweetness.
  • Baking Powder: Light rising agent for soft texture.
  • Salt: Flavor enhancer for balanced taste.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Butter, Milk, Egg, Vanilla Extract: Creamy and rich moisture makers.
Cinnamon Filling:
  • Softened Butter, Brown Sugar, Cinnamon: Warm and gooey swirl of sweetness.
Cream Cheese Glaze:
  • Cream Cheese, Powdered Sugar, Milk, Vanilla Extract: Smooth and decadent topping that brings everything together.

How to Bake Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Step 1: Fire Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 350°F.

Grab a muffin tin and either line it with cute paper cups or give it a quick spray of cooking oil.

Step 2: Craft The Dry Base

In a big mixing bowl, blend together:
  • Flour
  • Granulated sugar
  • Baking powder
  • Salt

Whisk these ingredients until they’re perfectly mixed.

Step 3: Create The Wet Magic

In another bowl, combine:
  • Melted butter
  • Milk
  • Egg
  • Vanilla extract

Blend these ingredients until smooth and silky.

Step 4: Merge The Mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture.

Stir gently until everything just comes together.

Don’t go crazy mixing – we want fluffy muffins!

Step 5: Whip Up Cinnamon Goodness

In a separate small bowl, mix:
  • Softened butter
  • Brown sugar
  • Ground cinnamon

Blend until the mixture looks creamy and dreamy.

Step 6: Build The Muffin Layers

Fill each muffin cup halfway with batter.

Drop a spoonful of cinnamon mixture on top.

Cover with remaining batter, almost reaching the cup’s rim.

Take a toothpick and swirl the layers for a beautiful marbled look.

Step 7: Bake To Perfection

Slide the tin into the oven.

Bake for 18-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

Let the muffins rest in the tin for a few minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.

Step 8: Craft The Creamy Drizzle

Beat cream cheese until smooth.

Add powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.

Mix until you’ve got a silky glaze that falls perfectly from a spoon.

Step 9: Finish With Flair

Once muffins are completely cool, drizzle that gorgeous cream cheese glaze all over.

Serve warm or at room temperature and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

Tips for Cinnamon Roll Muffin Success

  • Microwave butter in 5-second intervals to achieve the right spreadable consistency without melting completely.
  • Gently fold wet and dry ingredients together, stopping mixing as soon as ingredients are combined to keep muffins light and fluffy.
  • Use a toothpick or skewer to create beautiful marbled patterns by making gentle figure-eight movements through the batter and filling.
  • Adjust cream cheese glaze consistency by adding milk gradually – start with small amounts to reach desired drizzling texture.
  • Let eggs, milk, and cream cheese sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before mixing to ensure smoother, more even blending.

Store and Reheat Cinnamon Muffins

  • Store leftover muffins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
  • Keep glazed muffins at room temperature for up to 2 days if you plan to enjoy them soon, covered with a clean kitchen towel.
  • Wrap individual muffins tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months for longer storage.
  • Warm refrigerated or thawed muffins in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes to restore their soft, delicious texture.

What to Enjoy With Cinnamon Muffins

  • Brew Perfect Coffee Pairing: Select a medium-roast Colombian coffee with caramel undertones that beautifully complements the muffins' sweet cinnamon profile, enhancing the pastry's warm spice notes.
  • Elevate Milk Accompaniment: Choose whole milk or vanilla almond milk to soften the muffin's richness, creating a smooth, creamy drinking experience that balances the dessert's sweetness.
  • Match Breakfast Combo: Pair these muffins with Greek yogurt topped with honey and chopped almonds, adding a protein-rich, tangy contrast that cuts through the muffins' sugary layers.
  • Create Tea Harmony: Opt for a chai tea or earl grey with its delicate spice blend that mirrors the cinnamon's warmth, providing a sophisticated and comforting beverage companion.

Flavor Combos for Cinnamon Roll Muffins

  • Gluten-Free Cinnamon Roll Muffins: Replace wheat flour with a gluten-free blend using almond or rice flour to create a celiac-friendly version that maintains the original rich texture and flavor.
  • Vegan Cinnamon Swirl Muffins: Substitute eggs with mashed banana or flax eggs, use plant-based milk, and swap butter with coconut oil to craft a dairy-free and egg-free alternative that's equally delicious.
  • Low-Sugar Cinnamon Muffins: Reduce granulated sugar by half and incorporate natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit, and use Greek yogurt to maintain moisture while lowering overall sugar content.
  • Whole Wheat Wellness Muffins: Integrate whole wheat flour for added fiber and nutrition, using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour to preserve the muffins' light and tender crumb.

FAQs

  • Why should I not overmix the muffin batter?

Overmixing causes gluten development, which makes muffins tough and dense instead of light and fluffy. Mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the texture tender.

  • Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but replace only half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to maintain a soft texture. Using 100% whole wheat flour will make the muffins heavier and drier.

  • How do I know when the muffins are perfectly baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the muffins are done. Avoid overbaking to keep them moist.

  • What if my cream cheese glaze is too thick?

Add milk one teaspoon at a time and mix until you reach a smooth, drizzling consistency. If it becomes too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar to thicken.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe

Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Cinnamon roll muffins blend classic pastry comfort with convenient bakery magic. Sweet spirals of warmth deliver delightful breakfast charm, inviting you to savor each irresistible bite of homemade goodness.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (480 milliliters) all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) milk
  • 1/2 cup (115 grams) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 large egg

Sugar and Sweeteners:

  • 1/2 cup (100 grams) granulated sugar

Leavening and Seasoning:

  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven environment by heating to 350°F (175°C) and positioning a rack in the center. Arrange muffin liners in a 12-cup tin or generously coat with cooking spray.
  2. Create the foundational muffin mixture by combining dry ingredients in a spacious mixing vessel. Whisk flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until thoroughly integrated.
  3. In a separate container, blend wet components – melted butter, milk, egg, and vanilla extract – ensuring a smooth, cohesive liquid base.
  4. Gently fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients, stirring minimally to prevent dense texture. Mix until ingredients are just incorporated, maintaining a light consistency.
  5. Craft the cinnamon filling by combining softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Blend until the mixture achieves a uniform, spreadable texture.
  6. Populate muffin cups by depositing batter halfway, then introducing a dollop of cinnamon filling atop the initial layer.
  7. Complete each muffin cup by covering the filling with remaining batter, approaching the rim but avoiding overflow.
  8. Create visual intrigue by using a toothpick to marble the cinnamon filling throughout the batter, generating delicate swirls.
  9. Transfer the muffin tin to the preheated oven, allowing 18-20 minutes of baking until a inserted toothpick emerges clean.
  10. Extract muffins from the oven, permitting brief resting within the tin before transitioning to a cooling rack.
  11. Construct the cream cheese glaze by whipping softened cream cheese until silky smooth using a hand mixer.
  12. Incorporate powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract into the cream cheese, adjusting liquid for ideal drizzling consistency.
  13. Once muffins have completely cooled, embellish with cream cheese glaze using a spoon or pastry bag, creating elegant cascading patterns.
  14. Present these aromatic delicacies warm or at ambient temperature, complemented perfectly by a steaming beverage.

Notes

  • Swap out all-purpose flour with whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives for dietary needs without compromising the muffin’s soft texture.
  • Use Greek yogurt instead of milk to create a tangier, richer profile while boosting protein content for a more nutritious breakfast treat.
  • Control sweetness by reducing sugar gradually or substituting with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup for a healthier spin.
  • Enhance moisture by adding grated apple or mashed banana to the batter, which helps maintain softness and introduces subtle fruity undertones.
  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 202
  • Sugar: 8 g
  • Sodium: 92 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 28 g
  • Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 31 mg
James Hambly

James Hambly

Founder & Recipe Creator

Expertise

Recipe Development, Culinary Education, Farm-to-Table Cooking, Southern Cuisine

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Hands-on training in professional cooking techniques, emphasizing farm-to-table practices and Southern cuisine.

The Chef’s Academy
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
Focus: Comprehensive culinary education covering global cuisines, kitchen management, and food safety.​


James grew up surrounded by the smells of cast-iron skillets and slow-cooked Southern meals in Asheville, North Carolina.
He sharpened his skills with a Certificate in Culinary Arts from Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, and later leveled up with an Associate Degree from The Chef’s Academy.
James’s philosophy is simple: the best meals don’t need fancy tricks, just fresh ingredients, a hot pan, and a little bit of heart. His favorite days are spent testing one-pan wonders, chasing bold flavors, and creating recipes that feel easy, even on a busy night.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star