Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe

If you adore indulgent breakfasts or crave a bakery treat at home, get ready to fall head over heels for these Cinnamon Roll Muffins. Imagine all the cozy comfort of classic cinnamon rolls—swirls of sweet spice, tender crumb, irresistibly buttery filling—wrapped up in a handy muffin shape that’s just begging to be peeled and devoured. Each bite is decadently soft with beautiful ribbons of cinnamon sugar in every swirl. This recipe delivers all the cinnamon roll experience you love, but with a fraction of the effort, perfect for lazy weekend mornings or sharing something truly special with someone you love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s something magical about how a few basic pantry staples transform into the most sumptuous Cinnamon Roll Muffins. Every ingredient in this recipe is carefully chosen to build lush flavor, fluffy texture, and that signature golden swirl—you’ll be surprised how simple it is to create such a showstopper!

• All-purpose flour: The backbone of our muffins, giving them the perfect soft crumb.
• Baking powder: This is key for those lovely, bakery-style domed tops.
• Fine sea salt: A pinch brings all the flavors into balance and prevents the muffins from tasting flat.
• Ground cinnamon: The superstar spice—choose the freshest you can find for deep aroma and warmth.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Light brown sugar: Provides caramel notes and moisture to both the muffin batter and the cinnamon swirl.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the muffins and lends structure for a tender crumb.
• Eggs: Bind the batter, add richness, and contribute to that classic muffin rise.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances all the sweet, warming flavors for pure bakery bliss.
• Amoretti Natural Cinnamon Bun Artisan Flavor: An optional secret weapon for the truest “cinnamon roll” flavor—highly recommended, but you can skip if needed!
• Plain Greek yogurt: Ensures the muffins stay moist and springy, plus a slight tang to balance the sweetness.
• Whole milk: Adds just enough creaminess for a lush, tender interior.
• Extra butter, brown sugar, & cinnamon: Combined for the swoon-worthy swirl and filling that make these muffins over-the-top delicious.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon in a large bowl. You’ll want this blend to be well combined, ensuring that every bite of your Cinnamon Roll Muffins is perfectly spiced and light. Set the bowl aside to await its transformation.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a separate mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter together with the brown sugar and granulated sugar. Take your time—2 to 3 minutes of mixing will make the butter fluffy and pale, which is exactly what you want for gorgeous, tender muffins. Scrape the sides of the bowl to be sure everything’s well incorporated.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Aromatics

Crack in the eggs, then pour in the vanilla extract and the (highly recommended!) Amoretti Natural Cinnamon Bun Artisan Flavor. Mix them on low speed just until combined. The eggs will enrich the batter, while those flavorings will transport you right into cinnamon roll heaven.

Step 4: Incorporate the Wet and Dry Mixes

Add half of your dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture and blend gently. Next, pour in half the Greek yogurt and half the milk; mix softly until barely combined. Repeat with the remaining dry ingredients, yogurt, and milk. Mixing in stages keeps your muffins tender and fluffy—don’t overdo it!

Step 5: Let the Batter Rest

Cover your bowl and let the batter rest at room temperature for 30 minutes. This short nap lets the flour fully hydrate and the leaveners get to work, resulting in Cinnamon Roll Muffins with beautiful rise and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Step 6: Prepare the Muffin Tin and Preheat

As the batter rests, preheat your oven to 425F. Line your muffin tin—preferably with large or “jumbo” liners—for that luxurious bakery look. For even baking and impressive domed tops, leave every other muffin slot empty so the hot air can circulate around each muffin. While you’re at it, this is a good time to make the filling.

Step 7: Make the Cinnamon Swirl/Filling

Blend the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until creamy. Scoop the mixture into a piping bag, snip the tip to create a small opening, and keep it nearby. You’ll use half now and save the rest for a delicious hidden center!

Step 8: Fill and Swirl the Muffins

Once rested, don’t stir the batter—just gently spoon it into the lined muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters of the way. Now, pipe a cinnamon swirl on the top of each, starting in the center and spiraling outward. Try not to let the swirl touch the paper’s edge, so it doesn’t spill over and burn as the muffins bake.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Bake your Cinnamon Roll Muffins at 425F for 8 minutes, then (without opening the door!) lower the heat to 350F and bake for another 13 to 16 minutes. You’re looking for a golden color and a toothpick that comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a rack to cool another 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 10: Fill the Muffin Centers

When the muffins are cool enough to handle, poke a hole through the bottom of each using a knife or cake dowel. Place your piping bag into the hole and squeeze in some of that dreamy cinnamon filling for a gooey, surprise center. Serve warm or at room temperature—either way, get ready for lots of “wow, you made these?” reactions!

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Garnishes

Dress your Cinnamon Roll Muffins with a drizzle of simple vanilla glaze, a light dusting of powdered sugar, or even a sprinkle of chopped nuts for texture. A swirl of cream cheese icing is pure decadence if you want to echo classic cinnamon rolls. Serving them slightly warm really emphasizes the gooey cinnamon center and turns every bite into a bakery-style treat at home.

Side Dishes

You can pair these muffins with tangy Greek yogurt, a mound of fresh berries, or a crisp fruit salad—these sides help balance the sweetness and make for a truly celebratory breakfast platter. For brunch gatherings, serve alongside scrambled eggs or savory breakfast casseroles to keep your menu balanced and everyone happy.

Creative Ways to Present

Try arranging your Cinnamon Roll Muffins on a tiered cake stand for a stunning brunch centerpiece, or wrap them individually in parchment and twine as charming edible gifts. For a fun twist, set out toppings—sprinkles, chocolate chips, or glaze—so everyone can decorate their own. They also look gorgeous plated on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of extra cinnamon butter or icing for dipping.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover Cinnamon Roll Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days—they stay moist and soft thanks to the yogurt and butter in the batter. For longer storage, refrigerate them, but be sure to let them come to room temperature or warm them slightly before serving for the best texture.

Freezing

These muffins freeze beautifully! Once fully cooled, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for a treat, just thaw overnight in the fridge or leave on the countertop for an hour.

Reheating

For that “just-baked” sensation, reheat Cinnamon Roll Muffins in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or pop them in a 300F oven for 5-7 minutes. The center filling will turn deliciously melty again, and the tops stay tender. If desired, drizzle a bit more glaze right before serving for extra wow factor!

FAQs

Can I make Cinnamon Roll Muffins without the cinnamon bun artisan flavor?

Absolutely! The muffins will still capture all the classic cinnamon roll flavor using plenty of real cinnamon and vanilla. The artisan flavor just adds an extra boost, so feel free to skip it if you don’t have it on hand.

What if I don’t have Greek yogurt?

You can substitute sour cream or even full-fat plain yogurt—the goal is to keep the muffins moist and a little tangy, so use what you have!

Can I make these in a standard muffin tin?

Yes! The recipe yields about 12 standard muffins. Just line your regular-sized muffin tin and adjust the baking time to 5 minutes at 425F, then about 10–12 minutes at 350F, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

How do I know when the muffins are baked through?

Look for muffins that are golden brown and spring back lightly when pressed. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter attached.

Can I add nuts, raisins, or chocolate chips to the batter?

Definitely! Fold in a handful of chopped pecans, walnuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips after mixing the batter, just before you let it rest. These additions make your Cinnamon Roll Muffins even more festive and customized to your tastes.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try these Cinnamon Roll Muffins—once you experience their pillowy crumb, gooey cinnamon core, and irresistible aroma, they’re sure to become a new breakfast favorite. Whether you bake them for a holiday, a special brunch, or just because, they’re bound to bring plenty of smiles and second helpings. Treat yourself and let your kitchen smell absolutely amazing!

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