Cinnamon Roll Muffins: 5 Steps to Sweet Success

Name: Cinnamon Roll Muffins: 5 Steps to Sweet Success
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup powdered sugar for glaze; 2 tablespoons milk for glaze

June 13, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the pure joy that cinnamon roll muffins bring to my mornings! Imagine waking up to the cozy aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through your kitchen, reminding you of those classic cinnamon rolls you love, but without all the fuss of rolling and waiting for dough to rise. These muffins perfectly blend the rich, warm flavors of traditional cinnamon rolls with the convenience of a quick-to-make muffin. Seriously, it’s like having dessert for breakfast, and who wouldn’t want that?

cinnamon roll muffins - detail 1

Every time I whip up a batch, I’m instantly transported back to my childhood, where weekends were filled with the delightful sound of a cinnamon roll baking in the oven. Now, I can enjoy that same experience without the marathon baking session! Trust me, these little delights can brighten up any dull morning routine or even make a surprise appearance at brunch gatherings. The best part? You can eat them warm right out of the oven, or drizzle them with a sweet glaze and feel like you’re indulging in something truly special. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe for cinnamon roll muffins that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients List

2 cups all-purpose flour – This forms the base of our muffins, giving them that perfect fluffy texture.
1 cup granulated sugar – For that delightful sweetness that balances the spice.
1 tablespoon baking powder – This is our leavening agent that helps the muffins rise beautifully.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Just a pinch to enhance all those lovely flavors.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and moisture to the muffins; make sure it’s cooled slightly before mixing!
1 cup milk – This keeps the batter moist and helps create a tender crumb.
2 large eggs – These provide structure and help bind everything together.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract – A splash of this adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – Our star spice that brings the classic cinnamon roll flavor.
1/2 cup brown sugar – For that rich, caramel-like sweetness in our cinnamon filling.
1/2 cup powdered sugar for glaze – This makes our sweet drizzle that takes these muffins to the next level.
2 tablespoons milk for glaze – Just enough to create a smooth and pourable glaze.

How to Prepare Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Preheat and Prepare

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for getting those muffins perfectly baked! While the oven heats up, go ahead and line a muffin tin with paper liners. Trust me, this makes for easy cleanup and helps prevent sticking. I always find it easier to pop the muffins out of the tin when they’re lined!

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, it’s time to whisk together the dry ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Make sure everything is combined well; this will help ensure a uniform texture throughout your muffins. I like to give it a good whisk for about a minute—just enough to get some air in there!

Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter (let it cool slightly), 1 cup milk, 2 large eggs, and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract. Whisk these together until everything is well blended. The melted butter should be cool enough not to scramble the eggs, so be careful with that. You want a smooth mixture that smells absolutely divine!

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now it’s time to bring those two mixtures together! Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently mix until just combined—don’t overmix, or you’ll end up with tough muffins. I usually stop mixing as soon as I see no more dry flour. A few lumps are totally okay!

Prepare the Cinnamon Filling

In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup brown sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon for the filling. This cinnamon-sugar mixture is what will give your muffins that classic, cozy flavor. Make sure to combine it thoroughly so you get an even distribution in each muffin. I can’t resist sneaking a taste—it’s so good!

Fill the Muffin Tins

Now we’re ready to fill the muffin tins! Start by filling each cup halfway with the muffin batter—about 2/3 full should do it. Then, sprinkle about a tablespoon of that delicious cinnamon-sugar mixture on top of each. Finally, cover with more batter until the cups are about 3/4 full. This layering creates those lovely swirls we all adore. I love seeing the surprise of cinnamon filling when you take a bite!

Bake the Muffins

Pop your muffin tin into the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Just be careful not to overbake—no one likes dry muffins! The smell wafting through your kitchen is going to be heavenly, so get ready for that!

Prepare the Glaze

While your muffins are baking, whip up the glaze! In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons milk until smooth. The glaze should be pourable but not too runny. I like my glaze a little thicker, so I usually start with less milk and add just a splash more if needed. It’s such a sweet finishing touch!

Drizzle and Serve

Once the muffins are out of the oven and have cooled for a few minutes, it’s time to drizzle them with that lovely glaze. I like to use a spoon for this—just drizzle it over each muffin while they’re still warm but not hot. This way, the glaze seeps in a bit and adds that extra sweetness. Enjoy them warm, or let them cool completely before serving. Either way, these cinnamon roll muffins are sure to bring a smile to your face!

Tips for Success

Getting those cinnamon roll muffins just right can be a breeze if you keep a few tips in mind! Here’s what I’ve learned over the years to ensure your muffins turn out perfectly every time:

Avoid Overmixing: This is a biggie! When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until you no longer see dry flour. A few lumps are totally fine—overmixing can lead to dense, tough muffins, and we definitely don’t want that!
Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check your baking powder and spices for freshness. Old ingredients can affect the rise and flavor of your muffins. Trust me, using fresh ingredients makes a world of difference!
Check Your Oven Temperature: Ovens can sometimes be off by quite a bit! Use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s actually at 350°F (175°C) before baking. Baking is a science, and the right temperature is crucial for fluffy muffins.
Let Them Cool: Give the muffins a few minutes to cool in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and makes it easier to remove them without breaking. I find they’re less likely to stick when they’re cooled just a bit!
Experiment with Mix-ins: If you’re feeling adventurous, don’t hesitate to add chopped nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips to the batter for a fun twist! Just be mindful of the total volume so the muffins still rise properly.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir in the morning before you scoop and bake. This is a great way to enjoy fresh muffins with minimal effort on busy mornings.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to baking up a batch of cinnamon roll muffins that are nothing short of spectacular. So, get ready to impress your family and friends with your muffin mastery!

Variations on Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Now, if you’re like me and love to get creative in the kitchen, you’ll be thrilled to know that there are so many fun ways to change up these cinnamon roll muffins! Here are some delightful variations that I’ve tried and absolutely adore:

Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the cinnamon filling for a satisfying crunch. The nuts add a wonderful texture and flavor that pairs perfectly with the warm spices.
Fruity Twist: Toss in 1/2 cup of raisins or chopped apples into the batter for a fruity surprise. It adds a burst of sweetness and pairs beautifully with the cinnamon!
Spiced Up: Experiment with different spices by adding 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger to the dry ingredients. This will give your muffins a unique flavor profile that’s perfect for the fall season!
Cream Cheese Frosting: For an extra indulgent treat, whip up some cream cheese frosting instead of glaze. Just mix together 4 oz cream cheese, 1/4 cup butter, 2 cups powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla until smooth, and spread it on top of your muffins. Trust me, it’s heavenly!
Chocolate Chip Cinnamon Rolls: Add 1/2 cup chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore. The chocolate melts into the muffins and adds a rich sweetness that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
Maple Glaze: Instead of the traditional glaze, try drizzling your muffins with maple syrup mixed with powdered sugar. It gives a lovely maple flavor that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.

These variations are just the tip of the iceberg! Feel free to mix and match to create your own signature cinnamon roll muffins. The best part about baking is that you can always tailor recipes to suit your taste, and I can’t wait to see what delicious twists you come up with!

Nutritional Information

Keep in mind that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are approximate. Here’s a general breakdown per muffin:

Calories: 200
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 40mg

For the most accurate nutritional information, I recommend using a food calculator based on the exact ingredients you choose. Happy baking!

FAQ About Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Got questions about these delightful cinnamon roll muffins? I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with my trusty answers:

How do I store cinnamon roll muffins?

To keep your muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap and pop them in a freezer bag. They’ll be good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds.

Can I reheat these muffins?

Absolutely! To reheat, just pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. You can also warm them in a toaster oven at a low temperature for a few minutes. This will bring back that cozy, fresh-out-of-the-oven taste, and trust me, they’ll smell heavenly!

What can I serve with cinnamon roll muffins?

These muffins are delightful on their own, but if you want to take them up a notch, serve them with a dollop of whipped cream or a side of cream cheese frosting for dipping. You could also pair them with fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or bananas, for a fruity contrast. They’re a perfect addition to a brunch spread or served alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea!

Can I make these muffins ahead of time?

You bet! These muffins are perfect for making ahead. You can prepare the batter the night before and keep it in the fridge. Just give it a quick stir before filling the muffin tin and baking in the morning. It’s a great way to enjoy fresh muffins with minimal effort on busy days!

What if I don’t have muffin liners?

No worries if you don’t have liners! You can grease your muffin tin with a bit of butter or non-stick spray instead. Just be sure to coat each cup well so the muffins don’t stick. If you have silicone muffin cups, those work great too!

Hopefully, these answers help you on your delicious muffin journey! If you have more questions, feel free to reach out or leave a comment. Happy baking!

Why You’ll Love These Muffins

Honestly, these cinnamon roll muffins are a game changer in the kitchen! Here’s why you’re going to fall head over heels for them:

Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a batch of these muffins in no time. Perfect for those busy mornings when you want something delicious but don’t have hours to spend baking!
Easy Cleanup: Thanks to the muffin liners, cleanup is a breeze! No sticky pans to scrub, and you can just toss the liners when you’re done. It’s a win-win!
Delicious Flavor: These muffins pack all the comforting flavors of traditional cinnamon rolls into every bite. The warm spices and sweet glaze make them irresistible!
Versatile Treat: Whether you’re making them for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, these muffins fit the bill. They’re perfect for sharing or enjoying all to yourself!
Customizable: Feel free to mix things up with different spices, nuts, or even a rich cream cheese frosting. You can easily tailor these muffins to your taste!
Freezer-Friendly: Make a double batch and freeze some for later! Just reheat in the microwave for a quick treat whenever the craving strikes.

Once you try these muffins, I promise they’ll become a staple in your baking repertoire. They’re just too good to resist!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.