Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe

There is something irresistibly delightful about transforming the classic cinnamon roll into a fun, individual treat, and that’s exactly what this Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe does. Combining the soft, tender crumb of a cupcake with the rich, cinnamon-swirled goodness and creamy glaze of a traditional cinnamon roll, these cupcakes bring all the cozy bakery vibes right into your kitchen. Whether you are craving a brunch treat or a sweet snack, these cupcakes are sure to win hearts with their perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and buttery goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients together for this Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe is refreshingly straightforward, but each one plays an essential role in delivering that perfect texture and flavor you’re aiming for. From the all-purpose flour to the cinnamon spices, every addition builds that classic cinnamon roll experience in cupcake form.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for soft, fluffy cupcakes that hold their shape.
• Baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise to a light and tender crumb.
• Baking soda: Adds an extra lift and helps balance the acidity for perfect texture.
• Ground cinnamon: The star spice that imparts warm, aromatic flavor throughout the batter.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and keeps the sweetness balanced.
• Unsalted butter (softened): Brings richness and moisture to the cupcakes.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter evenly while contributing to a tender crumb.
• Eggs: Bind ingredients together and add lift and structure.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and adds a comforting aroma.
• Sour cream: Adds tanginess and keeps the cupcakes incredibly moist.
• Whole milk: Helps achieve a smooth, pourable batter consistency.
• Brown sugar: Essential for the luscious cinnamon swirl, providing deep caramel notes.
• Unsalted butter (melted): Mixes with cinnamon sugar to create a flavorful swirl paste.
• Powdered sugar: The base of the sweet glaze, adding a delicate finishing touch.
• Milk (for glaze): Thins the powdered sugar to a perfect drizzling consistency.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Preheat

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners. This prep ensures your cupcakes won’t stick and the oven is perfectly ready to bake a batch of golden, fluffy treats.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. This blend of dry ingredients is crucial for even distribution of spices and leavening, setting the foundation for beautifully risen cupcakes with a subtle cinnamon kick.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 3 to 4 minutes. This step incorporates air and creates a perfect base for tender cupcakes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to maintain a smooth batter. Then stir in the vanilla extract. These ingredients enrich the batter and help bind all the flavors together seamlessly.

Step 5: Combine Batter

Alternate adding the dry ingredients and sour cream to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined, then gently stir in the whole milk so the batter is smooth yet light—ready to cradle that delicious cinnamon swirl.

Step 6: Make the Cinnamon Swirl

Mix brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl, then drizzle melted butter over it, stirring until a luscious paste forms. This aromatic cinnamon swirl is the signature element that transforms each cupcake into a bite of cinnamon roll heaven.

Step 7: Layer and Swirl the Batter

Spoon a heaping tablespoon of batter into each cupcake liner, then add a spoonful of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top. Use a toothpick or knife to swirl that cinnamon goodness into the batter, creating a beautiful marbled effect that promises flavor in every bite. Then, top with another heaping tablespoon of batter, filling the liners about two-thirds full.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This timing ensures that your cupcakes have set with tender crumb and a golden top without overbaking.

Step 9: Cool and Glaze

Allow cupcakes to cool for 5 minutes in the tin before transferring to a wire rack. While cooling, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make a smooth glaze. Once the cupcakes are completely cool, drizzle the glaze generously on top and let it set for a perfect finishing touch.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe

Garnishes

A simple glaze is classic, but feel free to sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or some crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts on top for a lovely crunch and nutty contrast that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.

Side Dishes

These cupcakes shine on their own but are also wonderful alongside a hot cup of coffee or a creamy latte. Pairing them with fresh fruit or a yogurt parfait can add a refreshing balance to the indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these cupcakes on a tiered dessert stand for brunch or a party, or plate them with a drizzle of caramel sauce around the edges for extra flair. Individual cupcake boxes make delightful gifts or party favors that feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them moist and fresh. Avoid refrigeration as it can dry out the cupcakes unless your kitchen is very warm.

Freezing

These cupcakes freeze beautifully! Wrap each cupcake tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly baked feel, warm cupcakes briefly in a microwave for about 10 seconds or in a low oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. Glaze can be reapplied if needed for an extra sweet touch.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of milk for the batter?

Absolutely! While whole milk adds richness and moisture, you can substitute with 2% milk or even non-dairy options like almond or oat milk. The texture will remain soft, though the flavor can vary slightly depending on the choice.

What if I don’t have sour cream on hand?

You can replace sour cream with an equal amount of plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk. These alternatives provide similar tanginess and moisture to keep the cupcakes tender and flavorful.

How do I prevent the cinnamon swirl from sinking?

Swirling gently and layering the batter carefully helps keep the cinnamon swirl suspended throughout the cupcake. Avoid overmixing after adding the cinnamon paste to maintain the beautiful marbled effect.

Can this recipe be doubled for a larger batch?

Yes, you can easily double the recipe to make more cupcakes. Just be sure to bake in batches if needed, as overcrowding your oven can affect cooking times and texture.

Is it okay to skip the glaze?

The glaze adds a delicious sweet finish, but the cupcakes are still wonderful without it. If you want a less sweet option or a different style, you could try a cream cheese frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar instead.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe truly brings the best of two favorites together in the most comforting and scrumptious way. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or treating yourself after a long day, these cupcakes deliver warm cinnamon spice, tender cake, and a sweet glaze that feels like a hug in dessert form. Give this recipe a try and watch how quickly they become your new go-to sweet treat!

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