Imagine pulling a warm, golden muffin from the oven, its surface crackling slightly as you break it open. The aroma of cinnamon wafts through the air, promising an indulgent treat with every bite. These Easy Cinnamon Muffins are not just a delightful snack; they are a cozy embrace on a chilly morning or a sweet surprise during your afternoon tea.
With a tender, fluffy texture and a warm spice that lingers on your palate, each muffin is a perfect balance of comfort and flavor. Made with simple ingredients, these muffins come together quickly, making them an ideal choice for bustling weekdays or lazy weekends.
Whether you’re cooking for a brunch gathering or just treating yourself, this recipe will guide you step by step to achieve cinnamon bliss. Get ready to fill your kitchen with warmth and enjoy a moment of pure delight with every bite of these Easy Cinnamon Muffins.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Cinnamon Muffins
These delightful muffins are a must-try for anyone craving a warm, cozy treat!
- Quick to whip up — Ready in just 25 minutes, making them perfect for a last-minute breakfast or snack.
- Kid-approved — The sweet, cinnamon flavor is irresistible, ensuring even picky eaters will come back for more.
- Budget-friendly — Made with simple ingredients that won’t break the bank, so you can enjoy deliciousness without guilt.
- Perfect for meal prep — Bake a batch ahead of time, and enjoy them throughout the week for an easy grab-and-go option.
- Comfort food classic — These muffins bring a warm, homey feel that’s perfect for cozying up on chilly days.
- Minimal cleanup — One bowl is all you need, allowing you to enjoy your muffins without the hassle of extensive cleanup.
Ingredients
For the Muffins
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ½ cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 teaspoon vinegar added)
- ¼ cup vegetable oil (or melted coconut oil)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping (optional)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or electric mixer
- 12-cup muffin tin
- Paper muffin liners or non-stick spray
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Wire cooling rack (optional)
How to Make Easy Cinnamon Muffins
Prepare the Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly with cooking spray.
- Mix the dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of salt until evenly combined.
- Combine the wet ingredients. In another bowl, mix together 1 large egg, ½ cup of milk, ¼ cup of melted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are okay.
Add the Cinnamon Topping
- Make the cinnamon sugar topping. In a small bowl, mix together ¼ cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon until well mixed.
- Fill the muffin tins. Spoon the batter into each muffin cup, filling them about two-thirds full. This allows room for the muffins to rise.
- Sprinkle the topping. Generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the top of each muffin batter in the cups.
Bake the Muffins
- Bake in the preheated oven. Place the muffin tin in the center of the oven and bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the muffins. Once out of the oven, allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Enjoy your muffins! Serve warm or at room temperature, and store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.
Tips for the Best Easy Cinnamon Muffins
- Measure your flour correctly — Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid dense muffins.
- Use fresh baking powder — Check the expiration date; expired baking powder can result in flat muffins. Test it by adding a teaspoon to hot water; it should fizz.
- Try substituting applesauce — Replace half the butter with unsweetened applesauce for a healthier twist and added moisture.
- Mix in some nuts or raisins — Adding 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or raisins provides a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
- Cool before serving — Let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. This helps maintain their soft texture.
- Make ahead for busy mornings — These muffins freeze well! Prepare a batch, cool completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.
Variations to Try
- Maple Walnut Muffins — Replace half of the sugar with pure maple syrup and add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts.
- Spicy Chai Muffins — Incorporate 1 teaspoon of ground ginger, cardamom, and allspice into the dry ingredients for a chai-inspired flavor.
- Coconut Cinnamon Muffins — Fold in 1/2 cup of shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
- Gluten-free option — Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour for a gluten-friendly treat.
How to Store Easy Cinnamon Muffins
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Be sure to keep them in a cool, dry spot to maintain freshness.
Refrigerator: For longer storage, place your muffins in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. This helps retain moisture and flavor.
Freezer: Cinnamon muffins freeze well! Wrap each muffin in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat
To reheat, microwave muffins for 20-30 seconds. For a crispier texture, place them in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes.
Make-Ahead Tips
You can prepare the muffin batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes morning prep a breeze!
Nutrition Information
Estimated values per serving. Nutrition may vary based on ingredients used.
| Serving Size | 1 muffin |
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Saturated Fat | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 8g |
| Protein | 2g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour, but it will yield a denser muffin. You may need to adjust the liquid in the recipe to achieve the desired consistency.
How can I make these muffins gluten-free?
To make these muffins gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum. This will help mimic the texture of regular flour without compromising the muffin’s fluffiness.
What is the best way to store leftover muffins?
Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?
Absolutely! Simply double all the ingredients to make a larger batch, and keep the baking time similar, checking for doneness a few minutes earlier.
Why did my muffins come out too dry?
Dry muffins can result from overmixing the batter or baking them too long. Make sure to mix until just combined and use a toothpick to check for doneness to avoid overbaking.
What toppings pair well with these cinnamon muffins?
These muffins are delightful on their own, but you can enhance them with a drizzle of vanilla glaze, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking for the best rise and texture.
Final Thoughts
These Easy Cinnamon Muffins are not just a treat for your taste buds; they’re also incredibly simple to whip up. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, these muffins add a delightful touch to any occasion. With their soft texture and warm cinnamon flavor, they’re bound to become a favorite in your home.
Give this recipe a try, and we’d love to hear how they turned out for you! Leave a comment with your thoughts and ratings, and don’t forget to share these muffins with friends or on social media. Save or bookmark this recipe for when you’re in the mood for something cozy and delicious. Happy baking!