Cinnamon Roll Muffins – Easy, No Yeast Recipe for Breakfast

There’s something magical about the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon rolls baking in the oven. The rich, buttery layers, the swirls of cinnamon sugar, and the sweet glaze melting over the top make them an irresistible treat. But let’s be honest—traditional cinnamon rolls can take a lot of time and effort, with all the kneading, rising, and rolling. Enter Cinnamon Roll Muffins—all the deliciousness of a cinnamon roll, but in an easy, no-fuss muffin form.

These muffins are soft, fluffy, and perfectly spiced, with swirls of cinnamon sugar baked right in. And let’s not forget the sweet vanilla glaze that drizzles over the top, making every bite as indulgent as the real thing. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat with coffee, they’re sure to bring a little extra joy to your day.

The best part? They don’t require yeast! That means no waiting for the dough to rise and no complicated rolling and shaping. In just about 45 minutes, you’ll have warm, gooey muffins that taste like they came straight from a bakery. Plus, they’re individually portioned, making them perfect for sharing (or for keeping all to yourself—no judgment here!).

I first started making these muffins when I was craving cinnamon rolls but didn’t have the patience for the whole process. The first bite was a game-changer. The tender, buttery crumb mixed with the rich cinnamon swirl and the slightly crisp edges made them an instant favorite. Now, they’re a staple in my home, especially on lazy weekend mornings or when I want to surprise my family with something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons why these Cinnamon Roll Muffins deserve a spot in your baking rotation. Here’s what makes them truly special:

• All the cinnamon roll flavors without the work – No yeast, no waiting, no rolling. Just mix, bake, and enjoy.
• Quick and easy – You’ll have fresh, homemade cinnamon roll muffins in less than an hour.
• Soft and fluffy texture – The muffin base is tender and light, with just the right amount of richness.
• Gooey cinnamon-sugar swirl – Each bite has a perfect balance of sweet cinnamon filling and buttery muffin.
• Customizable glaze – Whether you love a simple vanilla glaze or a tangy cream cheese drizzle, you can make them your own.
• Perfect for any occasion – Serve them at breakfast, brunch, dessert, or as a snack with coffee or tea.
• Great for meal prep – They store well and can be frozen for later, so you can always have a quick sweet treat on hand.

There’s nothing quite like biting into one of these warm muffins and tasting the rich, caramelized cinnamon swirls inside. They feel like a cozy hug in muffin form, and once you try them, you’ll be making them again and again.

Health Benefits

While these Cinnamon Roll Muffins are an indulgence, they also come with some surprising benefits. Here’s why you can enjoy them guilt-free:

Cinnamon Is Packed with Antioxidants

Cinnamon isn’t just for flavor—it’s also incredibly good for you. It’s loaded with antioxidants that help fight free radicals in your body. Plus, cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and improve overall health.

Balanced Energy from Carbs and Fats

These muffins contain a balance of carbohydrates and healthy fats, which provide sustained energy. The whole grains in the flour offer fiber, while the milk and eggs provide protein to keep you fuller for longer.

No Preservatives or Artificial Ingredients

Unlike store-bought cinnamon rolls or packaged pastries, these muffins are made with simple, real ingredients. That means no preservatives, artificial flavors, or additives—just pure homemade goodness.

Easily Adaptable for Healthier Versions

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can tweak the recipe in a few ways:

• Use whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Swap refined sugar for coconut sugar or honey for a more natural sweetener.
• Reduce the sugar in the batter and rely more on the cinnamon-sugar swirl for sweetness.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of oil for a boost of protein and a lower-fat option.

While these muffins are definitely a sweet treat, they can be part of a balanced diet, especially when paired with fresh fruit or a protein-rich side.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Total Time: About 45 minutes

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Baking time: 20-25 minutes
• Cooling and glazing time: 5 minutes

Servings: Makes 12 muffins

Nutritional Information (Per Muffin):

• Calories: 267
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Sugar: 28g
• Fat: 9g
• Protein: 3g

Ingredients List

The Muffin Batter:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup milk (whole or 2% for best results)
• ⅓ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
• 1 egg

The Cinnamon Swirl:

• ⅓ cup sugar
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

The Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

If you love an extra thick glaze, you can double the glaze ingredients.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners. If you don’t have liners, grease the muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Make the Muffin Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and egg. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. The batter should be slightly thick but smooth. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the muffins dense.

Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture

In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter until it forms a thick, grainy paste.

Step 4: Fill the Muffin Cups

Spoon the muffin batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ⅔ full.

Step 5: Add the Cinnamon Swirl

Drop 1 teaspoon of the cinnamon mixture onto each muffin. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl it into the batter, creating a marbled effect.

Step 6: Bake the Muffins

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Make the Glaze

While the muffins cool, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth. If you want a stronger flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract.

Step 8: Drizzle the Glaze

Once the muffins have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze over the tops. If you prefer a thicker glaze, let it sit for a few minutes to thicken before drizzling.

Step 9: Enjoy!

These muffins are best enjoyed warm, with a cup of coffee or tea.

How to Serve

These muffins are delicious on their own, but here are a few ways to elevate them:

• Serve them warm with butter for extra richness.
• Pair them with fresh fruit and yogurt for a balanced breakfast.
• Enjoy them with a steaming cup of coffee, chai, or hot chocolate.
• Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts or shredded coconut on top for added texture.

Pairing Suggestions

These muffins go well with:

• Black coffee or espresso for a bold contrast to the sweetness.
• Chai tea or spiced lattes to complement the cinnamon flavors.
• A fruit smoothie or fresh orange juice for a refreshing twist.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

To keep these muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. To freeze, wrap them tightly and store for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F for 5-10 minutes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While this recipe is simple, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for to ensure your Cinnamon Roll Muffins turn out perfect every time.

1. Overmixing the Batter

One of the biggest mistakes in muffin baking is overmixing. When you mix the batter too much, it activates the gluten in the flour, leading to dense, chewy muffins instead of light and fluffy ones. To avoid this, mix just until the ingredients are combined. A few small lumps in the batter are perfectly fine.

2. Skipping the Muffin Liners or Not Greasing the Pan

If you forget to use muffin liners or don’t grease your pan properly, the muffins can stick to the tin, making them difficult to remove. If you don’t have liners, make sure to grease each muffin cup with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy release.

3. Not Swirling the Cinnamon Mixture Properly

The cinnamon swirl is what gives these muffins their signature flavor, so it’s important to distribute it well. If you just drop the mixture on top without swirling, the muffins may have uneven pockets of cinnamon. Use a toothpick or skewer to create a gentle swirling motion to blend the cinnamon mixture into the batter.

4. Overbaking the Muffins

Baking for too long can lead to dry, crumbly muffins. To prevent this, check for doneness at 20 minutes by inserting a toothpick in the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (but no wet batter), they’re done. If not, bake for a few more minutes and check again.

5. Adding the Glaze While the Muffins Are Too Hot

While it’s tempting to glaze the muffins as soon as they come out of the oven, this can cause the glaze to melt and run off instead of setting beautifully on top. Let the muffins cool for at least 5-10 minutes before drizzling the glaze.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll get the best texture and flavor from your Cinnamon Roll Muffins every time.

Pro Tips

Want to take your Cinnamon Roll Muffins to the next level? Here are some expert tips to make them even better.

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients

Cold eggs, milk, or butter can make it harder for the ingredients to blend smoothly. Let your milk and egg sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before mixing. This helps create a more even, tender crumb.

2. Toast the Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture

For an even deeper, caramelized flavor, toast the cinnamon-sugar mixture in a small pan over low heat for 2 minutes before swirling it into the batter. This step is optional, but it enhances the rich, buttery cinnamon flavor.

3. Try a Cream Cheese Glaze

For a tangier, richer topping, swap the vanilla glaze for a cream cheese glaze. Simply whisk together 2 ounces of cream cheese, ½ cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Add Nuts for Crunch

Chopped pecans or walnuts make a great addition to these muffins. Sprinkle them on top before baking or mix them into the batter for a crunchy twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make These Muffins Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter the night before, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let the batter sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before filling the muffin tin.

2. Can I Use a Different Flour?

Yes! While all-purpose flour works best, you can substitute whole wheat flour for a slightly denser muffin with more fiber. If using gluten-free flour, choose a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for best results.

3. Can I Reduce the Sugar?

Absolutely! You can cut the sugar in the muffin batter down to ½ cup without significantly affecting the texture. The cinnamon swirl and glaze will still provide plenty of sweetness.

4. How Do I Know When the Muffins Are Done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re done. If it has wet batter, bake for a few more minutes and test again.

5. Can I Use Butter Instead of Oil?

Yes! Melted butter gives these muffins a richer flavor, while oil keeps them extra moist. Feel free to swap them based on your preference.

Conclusion & Call to Action

These Cinnamon Roll Muffins are the ultimate shortcut to enjoying the flavors of a classic cinnamon roll without all the effort. With their soft, fluffy texture, swirls of buttery cinnamon sugar, and a sweet vanilla glaze, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. Plus, they’re easy to make, require no yeast, and come together in under an hour!

Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just treating yourself on a cozy morning, these muffins are guaranteed to be a hit. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee, a chai latte, or a glass of milk for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Now it’s your turn to bake these deliciously swirled muffins! If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear from you. Leave a comment below and let me know how they turned out. Did you make any fun variations? Snap a picture and share it on social media—tag me so I can see your beautiful creations!

Happy baking, and enjoy every warm, cinnamon-filled bite!

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