Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe

Cinnamon Roll Muffins are the ultimate fusion of two beloved baked goods. Combining the tender, fluffy texture of muffins with the warm, spiced sweetness of cinnamon rolls, these treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s simple to prepare yet offers all the gooey deliciousness of classic cinnamon rolls, this one is for you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: No yeast or rising time needed—these muffins come together in a fraction of the time.
2. All the Flavors of Cinnamon Rolls: Swirls of cinnamon sugar throughout ensure every bite is packed with that signature taste.
3. Customizable: Add nuts, raisins, or cream cheese icing to make them uniquely yours.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: These muffins are ideal for holidays, brunch gatherings, or a weekday treat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it with non-stick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Muffin Batter

1. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Set aside.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
   In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold the mixture with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the muffins dense.

Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Filling

1. Mix the Filling:
   In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until it forms a paste-like consistency.
2. Layer the Batter and Filling:
   Spoon a tablespoon of the muffin batter into each muffin cup. Add a small dollop (about 1 teaspoon) of the cinnamon filling on top of the batter. Then, layer another tablespoon of batter over the filling to cover it.
3. Swirl for the Cinnamon Roll Effect:
   Using a toothpick or skewer, gently swirl the batter and filling together in each muffin cup to create a marbled effect.

Step 4: Bake the Muffins

1. Bake:
   Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Cool:
   Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

1. Mix the Glaze:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk (a few drops at a time) if the glaze is too thick, or more powdered sugar if it’s too thin.
2. Drizzle the Glaze:
   Once the muffins have cooled slightly, use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle the glaze over the tops of the muffins.

Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
2. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Room temperature eggs and milk blend more easily, creating a smoother batter.
3. Prevent Sinking Filling: To keep the cinnamon filling from sinking, ensure the first layer of batter is evenly spread and thick enough to support the filling.
4. Serve Warm: These muffins taste best when warm, as the cinnamon filling is gooey and the glaze melts slightly.

Variations

Add-ins:

• Chopped Nuts: Pecans or walnuts add a crunchy texture.
• Raisins or Dried Cranberries: Stir in a handful for a fruity twist.
• Cream Cheese: Add a dollop of cream cheese filling for extra richness.

Toppings:

• Streusel Crumb Topping: Mix flour, sugar, and butter to create a crumble and sprinkle on top before baking.
• Extra Cinnamon Sugar: Dust the muffins with a blend of cinnamon and sugar after glazing for added sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

1. Breakfast or Brunch: Serve with fresh fruit, yogurt, or a side of scrambled eggs for a complete meal.
2. Dessert: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
3. Snack: Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea for a mid-afternoon treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these muffins ahead of time?

Absolutely! These muffins are perfect for meal prep. You can bake them a day ahead and reheat them before serving.

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture, or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

You can substitute brown sugar with white sugar and a teaspoon of molasses for a similar flavor.

Can I skip the glaze?

Of course! The muffins are sweet and flavorful on their own, but the glaze adds a classic cinnamon roll touch.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Muffins offer all the deliciousness of cinnamon rolls without the hassle of rolling out dough. Their soft, tender crumb, rich cinnamon swirls, and sweet glaze make them a versatile and irresistible treat. Whether you’re enjoying them as part of a weekend brunch or a quick weekday breakfast, these muffins are sure to satisfy your cravings for something sweet and comforting. Make a batch today and share the joy with your family and friends!

Yield: 12

Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe

Print

Cinnamon Roll Muffins are the ultimate fusion of two beloved baked goods. Combining the tender, fluffy texture of muffins with the warm, spiced sweetness of cinnamon rolls, these treats are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s simple to prepare yet offers all the gooey deliciousness of classic cinnamon rolls, this one is for you.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 35 minutes

Ingredients

• Muffin Batter:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Cinnamon Swirl:
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Cream Cheese Glaze:
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease with cooking spray.

2. Prepare Muffin Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing; the batter should be slightly lumpy.

3. Make the Cinnamon Swirl

1. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter until it forms a paste.

4. Assemble the Muffins

1. Fill each muffin cup about halfway with the batter.
2. Add 1 teaspoon of the cinnamon swirl mixture to the center of each muffin. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter.
3. Divide the remaining batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling them about three-quarters full. Add a small dollop of cinnamon swirl on top and swirl it again for a marbled effect.

5. Bake

1. Bake the muffins in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Remove from the oven and let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Make the Cream Cheese Glaze

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, and whisk until the glaze is smooth and pourable. Adjust the consistency with more milk if needed.

7. Glaze the Muffins

1. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled muffins using a spoon or piping bag.

Notes

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• Custom Swirls: Add more cinnamon swirl for an extra burst of flavor in every bite.