Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Cinnamon roll muffins combine the warm, gooey flavor of cinnamon rolls with the ease of muffins, making them the perfect breakfast or snack option. These soft and fluffy muffins are topped with a sweet glaze, offering all the comforting flavors you love in a portable form. Follow this simple recipe to bring the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cinnamon into your home.

Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Roll Muffins

1. Quick and Easy: No need to deal with yeast or long rising times.
2. Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack.
3. Customizable: Add nuts, raisins, or even a cream cheese glaze to make it your own.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Muffins

For the Muffins:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp milk
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare

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

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

3. Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

4. Create the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Spoon a layer of muffin batter into each cup, add a dollop of the cinnamon mixture, and then top with more batter. Use a toothpick to swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter gently.

5. Bake

Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the muffins cool for 5 minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack.

6. Glaze the Muffins

While the muffins are cooling, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the muffins and let it set before serving.

Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Roll Muffins

1. Don’t Overmix: To achieve tender muffins, mix the batter until just combined.
2. Swirl Like a Pro: Use a skewer or knife for intricate cinnamon swirls.
3. Store Properly: Keep muffins in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Variations to Try

Serving and Storage Tips for Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Serving Tips

1. Warm and Fresh: For the best experience, serve the muffins warm. You can reheat them in a microwave for 10–15 seconds to restore their soft, gooey texture.
2. Pairings:
   • Beverages: Pair them with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk.
   • Toppings: Add a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of indulgence.
3. Presentation: Serve on a decorative platter with a drizzle of glaze or caramel for a more festive look.

Storage Tips

1. Room Temperature: Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
2. Refrigeration: If you live in a humid climate or want to extend freshness, refrigerate the muffins for up to 5 days. Warm them slightly before serving to restore their softness.
3. Freezing:
   • How to Freeze: Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
   • Freezing Duration: Store for up to 3 months.
   • Thawing and Reheating: Thaw at room temperature or heat directly in the microwave for 20–30 seconds.

Pro Tip: If glazing the muffins before storing, allow the glaze to set completely to prevent it from becoming sticky during storage. Alternatively, store the glaze separately and drizzle it just before serving.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon roll muffins are the ultimate fusion of convenience and indulgence. They deliver all the cozy, spiced flavors of traditional cinnamon rolls in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re hosting brunch or enjoying a quiet morning, these muffins are sure to be a hit.

Ready to Bake?

Try this recipe and bring the joy of cinnamon roll muffins to your table today. Share your results and let us know how you customized this delightful treat!

1. Can I make cinnamon roll muffins ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake them a day in advance and store them at room temperature or in the refrigerator. To serve, warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to refresh their soft texture. You can also prepare the batter and cinnamon swirl a day ahead, refrigerate them separately, and assemble them just before baking.

2. Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour?

Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Ensure your other ingredients, such as baking powder, are also gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but the muffins will still be delicious.

3. What can I use instead of brown sugar in the cinnamon swirl?

If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use granulated sugar and add a teaspoon of molasses for a similar flavor. Coconut sugar is another great alternative that adds a slightly caramelized taste.

4. Can I make these muffins without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute the eggs with alternatives like unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg), mashed bananas, or a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). This makes the recipe vegan-friendly if you also use plant-based milk and butter substitutes.

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