Introduction to Cinnamon Roll Muffins
If you’ve ever wished for the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls but with the ease of muffins, you’re in for a delightful treat! Cinnamon roll muffins combine the soft, pillowy texture of muffins with the sweet, spiced goodness of traditional cinnamon rolls, making them perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a snack.
Why you’ll love cinnamon roll muffins
Cinnamon roll muffins are a game changer in the world of baked goods. They deliver that irresistible flavor profile you love without the fuss that comes with rolling and baking dough. Imagine the aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen as sweet muffin batter bakes to perfection. Plus, these muffins are incredibly versatile! You can enjoy them simply as they are, or dress them up with a luscious cream cheese glaze for that extra indulgence.
Not only are they easy to whip up, but they're also perfect for meal prepping. Make a batch on Sunday, and you’ll have a week’s worth of delicious, homemade treats ready to go. If you’re in the mood for a cozy morning or a quick treat to share with friends, cinnamon roll muffins are the answer!
So, let’s get started on this scrumptious recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home!
For more insights into the magic of baking, check out resources from the Joy of Baking, a fantastic site for baking tips and techniques.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Muffins
When it comes to whipping up delicious cinnamon roll muffins, you'll want to gather your ingredients first. Each element plays a unique role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture. Let’s break it down so you know exactly what you need:
For the Cinnamon Crumb
- 1 cup dark brown sugar, packed
- 3 tablespoons salted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Muffin Batter
- 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (measuring tips below)
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 ¼ cups buttermilk, room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup salted butter, melted
- 2 large whole eggs, room temperature
- ¼ cup sour cream, room temperature
- ¼ cup canola oil
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
- 3 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
- 4-5 tablespoons whole milk
- ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure to prep your kitchen by preheating the oven and lining your muffin pan — the excitement begins here! If you're interested in learning how to adjust these ingredients for dietary restrictions, check out our Baking Alternatives Guide. Enjoy the process of baking, and soon enough, you'll have a batch of cinnamon roll muffins filled with warm, gooey goodness!
Preparing Cinnamon Roll Muffins
Creating cinnamon roll muffins is an inviting way to elevate your baking game. Let’s walk through the preparation process step by step so you can enjoy this delicious treat with minimal fuss.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
First things first, you’ll want to ensure you have everything you need. Here’s a handy checklist:
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Cinnamon Crumb:
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1 cup dark brown sugar, packed
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3 tablespoons salted butter, melted
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1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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Muffin Batter:
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3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
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2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
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½ teaspoon baking soda
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½ teaspoon fine sea salt
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1 ¼ cups buttermilk, at room temperature
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1 cup granulated sugar
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½ cup salted butter, melted
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2 large eggs, at room temperature
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¼ cup sour cream, at room temperature
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¼ cup canola oil
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1 tablespoon vanilla extract
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Cream Cheese Glaze:
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3 ounces cream cheese, softened
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⅓ cup powdered sugar
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4-5 tablespoons whole milk
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¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
Having these ingredients on hand will streamline your cooking process.
Step 2: Create the Cinnamon Crumb Topping
For that signature crunch and flavor, let's whip up your cinnamon crumb topping. In a medium bowl, combine the dark brown sugar, melted butter, ground cinnamon, and flour until crumbly. It should resemble a sandy texture. Spread this mixture onto a lined baking sheet and pop it in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy topping.
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients for the Muffin Batter
While the crumb mixture chills, take a medium bowl and whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and fine sea salt. This mixture serves as the foundation of your cinnamon roll muffins. Set it aside for now.
Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the room temperature buttermilk, granulated sugar, melted butter, eggs, sour cream, canola oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. The combination of these ingredients brings a richness to your muffins that you'll absolutely love.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gently fold your dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. You want to mix them until just combined; it's okay if there are a few flour streaks remaining. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins, and we want them light and fluffy!
Step 6: Fold in the Crumb and Fill Muffin Liners
Now for the exciting part! Fold in your chilled cinnamon crumb topping into the muffin batter. Line a 12-cup muffin pan with 6 liners (you can use just half of the pan for a more oversized muffin). Fill each liner with the batter, leaving a bit of space at the top to prevent overflow while baking.
Step 7: Bake the Muffins to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pop your muffin pan into the oven and bake for around 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma of baking cinnamon roll muffins will fill your kitchen, and believe me, it’s worth the wait!
Let them cool for a few minutes before drizzling your cream cheese glaze on top. Enjoy each fluffy bite as it takes you on a delightful cinnamon adventure!
Variations on Cinnamon Roll Muffins
Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Roll Muffins
For a cozy twist on traditional cinnamon roll muffins, try incorporating pumpkin puree and warming spices like nutmeg and ginger. Simply add 1 cup of pumpkin to your batter and replace some of the buttermilk with pumpkin spice for that perfect fall flavor. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before baking for an extra touch of sweetness. The result? A seasonal favorite that will make your kitchen smell like autumn!
Apple Cinnamon Roll Muffins
Want to bring a bit of orchard freshness to your breakfast? Add diced apples to your cinnamon roll muffins! Just fold in 1 to 1.5 cups of peeled and chopped apples during the mixing stage. You can also swap out the cream cheese icing for a drizzle of caramel sauce for a delicious treat. These apple-filled muffins are perfect for brunch and a fantastic way to use those juicy apples you picked up at the farmer's market!
For more delightful muffin variations, check out this guide on different muffin recipes!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Cinnamon Roll Muffins
When making cinnamon roll muffins, consider using room temperature ingredients for an even batter. For a more intense flavor, try browning your butter; it adds a nutty richness that elevates your muffins. Keep in mind that accurate flour measurement is crucial—spoon and level it rather than scooping straight from the bag to avoid dense muffins.
Don’t skip chilling the crumb topping; this step helps create the perfect texture. If you’re short on time, feel free to use store-bought cream cheese icing for a quick finish. Enjoy your baking adventure and share these delightful treats with friends!
Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Roll Muffins
Cinnamon roll muffins are a delightful treat that can elevate any meal or occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience:
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Perfect Pairings: Enjoy your cinnamon roll muffins with a warm cup of coffee or tea, which complements the sweetness perfectly. If you’re looking for a refreshing alternative, try pairing them with cold brew or herbal iced tea.
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Dress Them Up: For a more indulgent experience, top your muffins with berries or sliced bananas. Drizzle some extra cream cheese icing for an added touch!
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Brunch Treat: These muffins make a fantastic addition to brunch spreads alongside Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham. They can also be a sweet centerpiece for any gathering.
By exploring these serving options, you can create a memorable experience around your cinnamon roll muffins!
Time Breakdown for Cinnamon Roll Muffins
Preparation time
Getting your ingredients ready takes about 20 minutes. This includes combining your cinnamon crumb mix and muffin batter to create that delightful swirl.
Baking time
Baking these warm, fluffy cinnamon roll muffins will only take 15-18 minutes. Keep an eye on them until golden brown!
Total time
From start to finish, you’ll need around 1 hour. This includes prep, bake, and a little chill time for that scrumptious crumb topping! Perfect for a cozy weekend brunch or as a sweet treat any day.
Nutritional Facts for Cinnamon Roll Muffins
When enjoying these delightful Cinnamon Roll Muffins, it's essential to know the nutritional content. Each muffin contains approximately:
- Calories: 320 – Perfectly satisfying for breakfast or a sweet snack without overindulging.
- Sugar content: 12g – Sweet enough to satisfy your cravings without going overboard.
- Carbohydrates: 45g – A great source of energy to keep you going throughout your busy day.
These muffins balance indulgence and nourishment, making them a fantastic choice for any occasion. For more details on nutrition, check reliable sources like the USDA FoodData Central.
FAQs about Cinnamon Roll Muffins
How can I achieve the perfect texture for my muffins?
To make the best cinnamon roll muffins, focus on key ingredients and techniques. Be sure to measure your flour accurately—too much can lead to dry muffins. Avoid overmixing the batter; mix until just combined to keep them airy. Using room temperature ingredients like buttermilk and eggs can also help achieve that soft, fluffy texture you crave.
Can I freeze cinnamon roll muffins?
Absolutely! These muffins freeze beautifully. Once they are completely cool, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm up slightly in the oven for that fresh-baked taste.
What’s the best way to store cinnamon roll muffins?
To keep your cinnamon roll muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you’d like to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them for up to a week. Just make sure to remove them 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor and texture.
For additional tips on keeping baked goods fresh, check out King Arthur Baking.
Conclusion on Cinnamon Roll Muffins
In summary, these cinnamon roll muffins with cream cheese icing are a delightful blend of flavors that will elevate your breakfast or snack time. Their warm, fluffy texture combined with the sweet, creamy glaze is a treat worth indulging in. Try them for your next gathering — you won’t regret it!
Cinnamon Roll Muffins: Indulgent Treats with Cream Cheese Icing
Equipment
- Muffin Pan
- mixing bowls
- whisk
- Baking sheet
Ingredients
For the Cinnamon Crumb
- 1 cup dark brown sugar packed
- 3 tablespoons salted butter melted
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Muffin Batter
- 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour See notes below for measuring
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 ¼ cups buttermilk room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup salted butter melted
- 2 large whole eggs room temperature
- ¼ cup sour cream room temperature
- ¼ cup canola oil
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
For the Cream Cheese Glaze
- 3 ounces cream cheese softened
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
- 4-5 tablespoons whole milk
- ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Instructions
- Line a 12-cup muffin pan with 6 muffin liners and set it aside. Preheat the oven to 425 F/220 C.
- Combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, and melted butter until combined and crumbs form. Spread onto a lined baking sheet. Chill in the freezer for at least 30 minutes, then break into pea-sized pieces before using.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, sugar, melted butter, egg, sour cream, oil, and vanilla. Whisk the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until almost combined, with some flour streaks still remaining. Then fold in the cinnamon crumb mixture.
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