If you’re anything like me and love the comforting, sweet aroma of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the kitchen, you are going to absolutely adore this Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe. Imagine the tender, fluffy texture of a muffin infused with the classic cinnamon roll flavors and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze—this recipe flawlessly combines ease and indulgence in one delightful treat. It’s perfect for a cozy breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or even a special brunch with friends. Trust me, once you try these muffins, they’ll quickly become a cherished staple in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a mouthwatering blend of sweet, buttery, and spicy flavors. Each component plays its part, from the all-purpose flour that gives structure, to the cinnamon and brown sugar creating that signature swirl, and finally the cream cheese glaze adding a silky finish.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base for soft and fluffy muffins.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness directly to the batter.
- 1 tbsp baking powder: Helps the muffins rise to light perfection.
- ½ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor profile.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and moisture to the batter.
- 1 cup milk: Keeps the muffins tender and moist.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together for a perfect crumb.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor.
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened): Essential for creating the gooey cinnamon swirl filling.
- ½ cup brown sugar: Sweetness with a hint of molasses, perfect for the cinnamon filling.
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon: The star spice that defines this classic flavor.
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened): Provides that signature tangy cream cheese glaze.
- ½ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and smooths the glaze.
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Muffin Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Line a muffin tin with paper liners to make sure your muffins come out easily and look as wonderful as they taste.
Step 2: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients Separately
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. In another bowl, mix the melted butter, milk, egg, and vanilla extract. This separation helps ensure a light texture when you combine them.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Gently
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing—some small lumps are perfect for tender muffins! This is key to keeping your muffins soft and fluffy.
Step 4: Make the Cinnamon Filling
In a separate bowl, blend the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon until smooth and spreadable. This mixture is what creates the irresistible cinnamon swirl inside each muffin.
Step 5: Assemble the Muffins
Fill each lined muffin cup halfway with the muffin batter. Then spoon a generous dollop of the cinnamon filling in the middle. Top with the remaining batter and gently swirl the filling through using a toothpick or knife for that beautiful marbled effect.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Pop the muffins into your preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. You’ll know they’re ready when they are golden brown and smell heavenly.
Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze
While your muffins bake and cool, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and a splash of milk, adjusting as needed, to make a creamy glaze that’s perfect for drizzling over the warm muffins.
Step 8: Glaze and Enjoy
Once the muffins have cooled just slightly, generously drizzle the cream cheese glaze on top. The glaze adds a silky sweetness that perfectly complements the cinnamon swirl inside.
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon powder or a few chopped toasted pecans on top of the glaze. It adds a little crunch and an inviting look that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy these muffins.
Side Dishes
Cinnamon Roll Muffins pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a cold glass of milk. If you want to make brunch extra filling, serve them alongside scrambled eggs or fresh fruit salad for balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking these muffins in a rustic wooden basket lined with a colorful napkin for a charming breakfast display. You can also serve them warm with an extra drizzle of maple syrup or honey for a delightful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store any leftover cinnamon roll muffins in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and soft for up to 2 days—the perfect ready-to-eat treat whenever a sweet craving hits.
Freezing
These muffins freeze beautifully! Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They keep nicely for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw them overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.
Reheating
To recapture that just-baked feeling, warm your muffins in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 to 7 minutes. Add a quick drizzle of extra glaze if you love that melty finish.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour for this Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and a bit more fiber. Just keep in mind the texture might be slightly denser.
Is it necessary to use both melted butter in batter and softened butter in the filling?
Yes, they serve different purposes—the melted butter adds moisture and tenderness to the muffin itself, while the softened butter in the cinnamon filling helps create that rich, gooey swirl that defines these muffins.
How do I make the glaze less sweet?
If you prefer your glaze less sweet, reduce the powdered sugar by a quarter or add a bit more cream cheese and milk to balance out the taste while keeping it smooth and drizzle-worthy.
Can I double this Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe?
Definitely! It’s an easy recipe to scale up if you’re baking for a crowd. Just be sure to use more muffin tins or bake in batches so every muffin bakes evenly and beautifully.
What’s the best way to swirl the cinnamon filling?
After layering the batter and cinnamon filling, use a toothpick or a butter knife to gently swirl the filling through the batter. The key is not to over-swirl; just a few twists will give you that classic marbled look.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe is one of those comforting, feel-good bakes that instantly brightens your day. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just a delicious everyday treat, these muffins hit all the right notes with their tender crumb, cinnamony swirls, and creamy glaze. I can’t wait for you to try making them and share the joy with your loved ones—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!
Print
Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these soft and flavorful Cinnamon Roll Muffins, combining classic cinnamon roll flavors with the convenience of a muffin. Swirled with a cinnamon-sugar filling and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze, these muffins are perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
Batter
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Cinnamon Filling
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp ground cinnamon
Glaze
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1–2 tbsp milk (to desired consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners to prepare for baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the melted butter, milk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined.
- Make Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the muffins tender.
- Prepare Cinnamon Filling: In another bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon; mix well to create the cinnamon sugar filling.
- Assemble Muffins: Fill each muffin cup halfway with batter, then add a spoonful of the cinnamon filling in the center of each. Top with the remaining batter and use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon filling through the batter for a marbled effect.
- Bake: Bake the muffins in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating they are fully cooked.
- Prepare Glaze: While the muffins bake, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and milk, mixing until the glaze reaches a pourable yet thick consistency.
- Glaze and Serve: Allow the muffins to cool slightly, then drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the tops. Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Notes
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid dense muffins.
- You can substitute milk with a dairy-free alternative for a lactose-free version.
- Ensure cream cheese and butter are softened for easier mixing.
- Use a toothpick to swirl the cinnamon filling gently without fully mixing it to maintain distinct cinnamon ribbons.
- Store muffins in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
