Description
Delight in these Swirled Cinnamon and Sugar Muffins, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. Fluffy muffins filled with a cinnamon-sugar swirl and topped with a crunchy cinnamon-sugar sprinkle create a comforting and flavorful treat that’s easy to make and sure to please everyone.
Ingredients
Scale
For the muffins:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup milk
For the cinnamon-sugar swirl:
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
For the topping (optional):
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar mixed with ½ teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare muffin tin: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it with non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning.
- Cream butter and sugars: In a large separate bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating the perfect base for the batter.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time to incorporate them fully, then stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix gently just until combined, careful not to overmix to keep muffins tender.
- Prepare the cinnamon swirl: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter to create a sweet cinnamon-sugar swirl.
- Layer batter and swirl: Spoon batter into each muffin cup filling halfway. Add a small spoonful of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top, then add another layer of batter to fill the cup about three-quarters full. Use a toothpick or small knife to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter for a marbled effect.
- Add topping and bake: If desired, sprinkle the muffin tops with the cinnamon-sugar topping mixture. Bake in the preheated oven for 16–18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, ensuring they are fully baked.
- Cool and serve: Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.
Notes
- These muffins freeze well—store in an airtight container and reheat for a quick breakfast treat.
- Add a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for an extra sweet finish if desired.
- Do not overmix the batter to ensure fluffy, tender muffins.
- Use paper liners for easy clean-up and presentation.
