Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe

If you adore the warm, gooey goodness of classic cinnamon rolls but want something a little more handheld and fun, you are going to fall head over heels for this Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe. It captures every bit of that cinnamon-sugar swirl magic and the tender, fluffy crumb of a perfect cupcake, all topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze that will have you dreaming about the next bite. Whether it’s for brunch, a cozy afternoon treat, or a crowd-pleasing dessert, these cupcakes bring comfort and joy in every single bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient here plays a starring role in making these cupcakes irresistibly tender, flavorful, and beautifully textured. From the moist buttermilk and smooth sour cream to the cinnamon-spiced swirl and buttery streusel topping, each element is essential for crafting the perfect Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe.

• Yellow cake mix (15.25 ounces): Provides a reliable, fluffy base for the cupcakes that’s easy to work with.
• Vanilla pudding mix (3.4 ounces, dry): Adds extra moisture and richness for a soft interior.
• Large eggs (3, room temperature): Help bind the ingredients and create structure.
• Buttermilk (1 cup): Brings tenderness and a subtle tang that balances sweetness.
• Vegetable oil (1/3 cup): Keeps the cupcakes moist without weighing them down.
• Full-fat sour cream (3/4 cup): Enhances texture with creaminess and a slight tang.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses warmth and depth of flavor.
• Brown sugar (1/4 cup + 1/4 cup, packed): Sweetens and caramelizes beautifully in the cinnamon swirl and streusel.
• Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon + 1 teaspoon): The signature spice that creates the classic cinnamon roll taste.
• All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Used in the streusel for crumbly texture.
• Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, softened + 1/4 cup softened): Adds richness to both the streusel and glaze.
• Cream cheese (1 ounce, softened): Essential for that tangy, creamy glaze topping.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the glaze smoothly.
• Salt (pinch): Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.
• Heavy cream or milk (1–2 tablespoons): Thins the glaze to a perfect drizzle consistency.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Muffin Tins

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two muffin tins with cupcake liners—this little step saves time on cleanup and ensures the cupcakes lift out effortlessly once baked.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the yellow cake mix and vanilla pudding mix. These two combined give the cupcakes their perfect cake texture and extra moistness.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, sour cream, and vanilla extract until everything is smoothly blended and ready to add to the dry mix.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix – you want a tender crumb, not a dense one!

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl

Mix together 1/4 cup brown sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a small bowl for that signature cinnamon sweetness that swirls through the cupcake.

Step 6: Layer the Batter and Swirl

Fill each cupcake liner about one-quarter full with batter, then sprinkle a little of the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top. Add more batter to fill the liner about three-quarters full, then sprinkle and swirl with the cinnamon-sugar once again using a toothpick or skewer.

Step 7: Make and Add the Streusel Topping

Pulse the 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup softened butter, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a food processor until crumbly. Sprinkle this streusel topping generously over each cupcake for delicious crunch and extra cinnamon flavor.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cupcakes for 17 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick poked into the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow them to cool slightly in the muffin tins before moving on.

Step 9: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Glaze

Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, mixing until well combined. Thin with 1 to 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk until the glaze reaches a silky, drizzle-able consistency.

Step 10: Glaze and Serve

Drizzle the luscious cream cheese glaze generously over the cooled cupcakes. This final touch is what takes this Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe from tasty to unforgettable!

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of freshly ground cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg on top of the glaze makes these cupcakes look even more irresistible. A few finely chopped pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch and nutty contrast to the soft crumb.

Side Dishes

Serve these cupcakes with a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or a glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness. For brunch, pair with fresh fruit or a light yogurt parfait to add freshness and color to the table.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve these cupcakes on a pretty tiered stand with little flags or cinnamon sticks as decoration. You can also plate them alongside mini cinnamon rolls for a cinnamon lover’s dream spread that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. After that, they’re best kept in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent the cream cheese glaze from spoiling.

Freezing

You can freeze these cupcakes without the glaze for up to three months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer into a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before glazing and serving.

Reheating

Warm the cupcakes for 10 to 15 seconds in the microwave to bring back that fresh-baked softness, especially if you froze them. Add the glaze after reheating for the best texture and flavor experience.

FAQs

Can I make the cinnamon swirl ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can mix the cinnamon-sugar swirl in advance and keep it covered at room temperature. Just give it a quick stir before using it in the batter.

Is there a dairy-free way to make this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with a plant-based milk and vinegar mixture, use dairy-free sour cream alternatives, and swap butter and cream cheese with vegan versions to keep the flavors close to the original.

Can I use homemade cake mix instead of boxed?

Definitely! Homemade yellow cake mix can work wonderfully here. Just make sure the batter isn’t too thick, so the cinnamon swirl and topping can blend nicely throughout.

What’s the best way to get a nice swirl effect?

Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar through the batter—don’t over-swirl or it will mix in completely instead of creating beautiful ribbons.

How can I make the glaze thicker or thinner?

To thicken the glaze, add a little more powdered sugar, and to thin it out, stir in milk or cream a teaspoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about this Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe that makes it a cherished go-to anytime you want the flavors of cinnamon rolls written in cupcake form. It’s simple enough for a weekday treat but impressive enough for gatherings and celebrations. Treat yourself and your loved ones—you won’t regret bringing this warm, cozy comfort into your kitchen and onto your plate.

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