Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. If you love cinnamon rolls but want something quicker and easier, cinnamon roll muffins are the perfect solution. These fluffy, sweet, and warmly spiced muffins bring all the magic of cinnamon rolls—without the long rising time or yeast!

These muffins are a delightful twist on the classic breakfast pastry. They’re filled with a buttery cinnamon-sugar swirl, baked to golden perfection, and topped with a smooth vanilla glaze. Whether you serve them for breakfast, brunch, or as a cozy afternoon treat, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Even better, they’re ready in under an hour and require no special equipment or techniques. You can whip these up on a weekend morning or bake ahead and reheat during the week. Let’s dive into how to make these irresistible cinnamon roll muffins!

🕒 Cooking Time & Serving

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 18–22 minutes

• Total Time: 35–40 minutes

• Servings: Makes 12 standard muffins

🧾 Ingredients

For the Muffins:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tbsp baking powder

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 large egg

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling:

• ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed

• 2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 1–2 tbsp milk

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

👩‍🍳 How to Make Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

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

Step 2: Mix the Muffin Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and mix gently until just combined (do not overmix).

Step 3: Prepare Cinnamon Filling

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until it forms a thick paste.

Step 4: Layer Muffins

Fill each muffin cup about ⅓ full with batter. Add about 1 teaspoon of the cinnamon filling to each. Top with the remaining batter, then swirl gently with a toothpick or skewer for a marbled effect.

Step 5: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 6: Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled muffins using a spoon or piping bag.

📝 Notes

• Don’t overmix the batter—stir until ingredients are just combined to keep muffins tender.

• For extra flavor, add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon filling.

• These muffins are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• You can freeze the muffins (without glaze) for up to 2 months. Just thaw and glaze before serving.

❓ FAQs

Can I use a gluten-free flour blend?
Yes, a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour should work well. Check the consistency of the batter—it should be thick but pourable.

Can I make these dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use plant-based milk (like almond or oat) and a dairy-free butter substitute.

Can I make mini muffins instead?
Yes, use a mini muffin tin and bake for about 10–12 minutes. Keep an eye on them as baking time will vary.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat for 10 seconds in the microwave before eating.

🍽️ Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – 1 Muffin)

Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

⚠️ Disclaimer

This recipe is intended for occasional enjoyment as part of a balanced diet. Always check ingredient labels for allergens, especially if baking for those with sensitivities to gluten, dairy, eggs, or nuts. Moderation is key to enjoying sweet treats while maintaining overall wellness.