If you’re looking for a comforting treat that instantly fills your kitchen with warm, inviting aromas, this Swirled Cinnamon and Sugar Muffins Recipe is an absolute must-try. These muffins are perfectly tender with a delightful cinnamon sugar swirl that adds a touch of sweetness and spice in every bite. Whether you want a simple breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a cozy dessert, these muffins bring together classic flavors in a way that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Trust me, once you bake them, they will quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is all it takes to create magic in your muffin tin. Each one plays a vital role in building the perfect texture, flavor, and that beautiful cinnamon swirl we all love.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the tender base of your muffins, providing the right structure.
- 1 tbsp baking powder: Helps the muffins rise beautifully and become light as air.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Balances acidity, ensuring a perfect crumb and moisture.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, making the sweetness pop.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth to the muffin batter itself.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings richness and tenderness to every bite.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter without overpowering other flavors.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and give the muffins body.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a subtle, inviting aroma and flavor boost.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Provides moisture and a gentle tang that balances sweetness.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for the swirl): Mixes with cinnamon to create that iconic swirl inside the muffin.
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for the swirl): Paired with sugar to give each swirl a punch of spicy sweetness.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping): Creates a delightful crunchy finish on top once baked.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping): Sprinkled last to crown your muffins with extra cinnamon goodness.
How to Make Swirled Cinnamon and Sugar Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Tin
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by greasing it or lining it with paper liners. This sets the stage perfectly for evenly baked muffins that come out effortlessly.
Step 2: Create the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl Mixture
In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. This simple blend is what makes these muffins extra special with that irresistible swirl throughout.
Step 3: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. In another bowl, beat the softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each, then stir in the vanilla extract. Alternate adding the dry mix with the buttermilk to the wet ingredients, combining gently until just smooth. This ensures the muffins stay tender, not dense.
Step 4: Fill Muffin Cups and Swirl
Divide the batter equally among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Sprinkle around a teaspoon of the cinnamon sugar mixture over each muffin, then grab a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl it through the batter. This swirl is where the magic happens, giving you that iconic cinnamon and sugar ribbon baked right inside.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Mix together 1/4 cup granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon and sprinkle it liberally on top of each muffin. This topping adds a sweet, slightly crunchy finish that makes these muffins both visually tempting and delightfully textural.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the tops have a beautiful golden brown hue. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before moving to a wire rack to finish cooling.
Step 7: Enjoy Warm or Room Temperature
Now the best part! These muffins are delicious when warm, with the cinnamon sugar melting slightly in your mouth. But don’t worry if you wait – they hold up beautifully at room temperature too.
How to Serve Swirled Cinnamon and Sugar Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey can elevate these muffins into a café-worthy treat. Add a pat of butter or a smear of cream cheese for an extra indulgent touch that enhances the cinnamon’s warmth.
Side Dishes
Serve your Swirled Cinnamon and Sugar Muffins Recipe alongside a hot cup of coffee or chai tea for a cozy pairing. Fresh fruit or a bowl of yogurt with a sprinkle of granola also complements the sweet, spiced flavors wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming brunch, place muffins in a basket lined with a colorful tea towel. Arrange with fresh flowers or seasonal fruit for a delightful presentation that’s sure to impress at any gathering or family breakfast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft and flavorful. If you want to extend freshness, refrigeration will keep them good for about a week, though it might slightly change the texture.
Freezing
These muffins freeze wonderfully! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you want a quick treat, just thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven.
Reheating
To revive that fresh-baked taste, warm muffins in a 300°F oven for about 5-7 minutes or microwave each for 15-20 seconds. The cinnamon sugar swirl practically sings when warmed up, making each bite irresistible.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
You can substitute regular milk by adding a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes. This mimics buttermilk’s acidity and keeps your muffins tender.
How do I make sure the cinnamon sugar swirl doesn’t sink to the bottom?
Swirling the cinnamon sugar mixture gently on top of the muffin batter and using a toothpick to incorporate it in light swirls helps keep the swirl evenly distributed without sinking too far.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the batter?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins make great additions. Fold them into the batter just before filling the muffin cups for added texture and flavor.
What’s the best way to prevent muffins from drying out?
Avoid overbaking by checking early with a toothpick, and store muffins in an airtight container. Wrapping them in plastic wrap can also help maintain moisture.
Are these muffins suitable for freezing and reheating?
Yes! These Swirled Cinnamon and Sugar Muffins Recipe muffins freeze beautifully and reheat well, making them perfect for busy mornings or quick snacks anytime.
Final Thoughts
Sharing this Swirled Cinnamon and Sugar Muffins Recipe feels like handing you a little bundle of joy wrapped in warm spices and sweetness. It’s such a simple recipe but one that delivers comforting flavors and a tender crumb every time. I can’t wait for you to bake these and experience how delicious and easy it is to elevate your everyday muffin into something truly special.
Print
Swirled Cinnamon and Sugar Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Swirled Cinnamon and Sugar Muffins are a delightful treat featuring a tender, moist crumb with a sweet and spicy cinnamon swirl throughout. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack, these muffins combine classic flavors with an easy-to-follow recipe for a delicious baked good everyone will love.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture for Swirl
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners to prevent sticking.
- Make Cinnamon Sugar Swirl Mixture: In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup granulated sugar with 1 tbsp ground cinnamon and set aside for swirling into the batter.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 1 tsp ground cinnamon to ensure an even distribution of leavening agents and spice.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and 1 cup granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender muffin texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated, then add the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can make muffins tough.
- Fill Muffin Cups and Swirl: Divide the batter evenly into the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Sprinkle about 1 teaspoon of the cinnamon sugar swirl mixture on top of each muffin. Use a toothpick or skewer to swirl the cinnamon sugar gently into the batter, creating a marbled effect.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping: In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup granulated sugar with 1 tsp ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this topping mixture evenly over the muffins to add a sweet, crunchy finish.
- Bake Muffins: Bake the muffins in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating they are fully baked.
- Cool Muffins: Remove the muffins from the oven and allow them to cool in the muffin tin for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, which prevents sogginess from steam buildup.
- Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy the cinnamon and sugar muffins warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter and eggs for better mixing and texture.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the muffins light and tender.
- The cinnamon sugar swirl can be adjusted to taste—add more if you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor.
- Line the muffin tin with paper liners for easy removal and less cleanup.
- These muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
