Cinnamon Sugar Swirl Muffins Recipe

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  • February 27, 2026
Breakfast

🧁 Cinnamon Sugar Swirl Muffins

Soft, moist muffins with a warm cinnamon sugar ribbon in every bite. Simple ingredients, perfect texture, bakery-style results.

Why This Recipe Works

✔ Perfect Sweetness – Balanced sugar and spice
✔ Moist Texture – Milk, butter, and egg create tenderness
✔ Defined Swirl – Layered cinnamon sugar adds flavor in every bite
✔ Easy Method – No mixer required

Ingredients

Muffin Batter

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • 1 tbsp baking powder

  • ½ tsp salt

  • 1 cup milk

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 1 egg

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Cinnamon Swirl

  • ⅓ cup brown sugar

  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners.

2️⃣ Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

3️⃣ Mix Wet Ingredients

Whisk milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla until smooth.

4️⃣ Combine

Add wet to dry. Stir just until combined. Do not overmix.

5️⃣ Prepare Swirl

Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.

6️⃣ Fill Cups

  • Add batter halfway

  • Sprinkle cinnamon sugar

  • Top with more batter

7️⃣ Swirl

Use a toothpick to gently swirl.

8️⃣ Bake

Bake 15–18 minutes. Cool slightly before serving.

Optional: Drizzle with vanilla glaze.

Baking Tips for Perfect Muffins

✔ Sift dry ingredients for even texture
✔ Spoon & level flour (don’t scoop)
✔ Preheat oven at least 15 minutes
✔ Bake in center rack
✔ Rotate pan halfway for even browning

Glaze Options

Cinnamon Glaze
Powdered sugar + milk + pinch cinnamon

Vanilla Glaze
Powdered sugar + milk + vanilla extract

Drizzle over slightly warm muffins.

Flavor Variations

🫐 Add blueberries for a fruity twist
🍫 Add mini chocolate chips
🥜 Add chopped nuts for crunch

Storage & Reheating

Room Temp: 2 days (airtight container)
Fridge: Up to 5 days
Freezer: Up to 3 months

Reheat:

  • Oven: 350°F for 5–7 minutes

  • Microwave: 20–30 seconds (wrap in damp paper towel)

Expert Tips

  • Use fresh baking powder

  • Use high-quality cinnamon

  • Do not overbake

  • Reduce oven temp by 25°F if using dark pans

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make them ahead?
Yes. Store airtight and reheat before serving.

How do I get a strong swirl?
Layer properly and avoid overmixing.

Why are my muffins dense?
Overmixing or expired baking powder.

These cinnamon sugar swirl muffins are soft, warm, and perfect with coffee or tea. Simple steps, reliable results, and bakery-quality flavor every time. ☕✨

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