Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe

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Cinnamon roll muffins are a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. These muffins combine the comforting flavors of cinnamon rolls with the ease of muffins, making them a perfect treat any time of day. With their sweet and spicy aroma, they can quickly become a family favorite. Today, we will explore how to make delicious cinnamon roll muffins that can be a healthy option for breakfast or a snack.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

This cinnamon roll muffin recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also makes a lighter option compared to traditional cinnamon rolls. With a simple blend of ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. They are perfect for meal prep, making them a great choice if you are looking for quick, healthy snacks or breakfasts throughout the week. Plus, these muffins can be adjusted to be lower calorie, high protein, and gluten-free, making them great for various dietary needs.

HOW TO MAKE Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Making cinnamon roll muffins is quick and straightforward. Follow these simple steps to achieve fluffy and flavorful muffins with the perfect cinnamon swirl.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• 12-cup muffin tin
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling rack

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for added warmth)
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 cup (240ml) milk (whole milk or 2% recommended)
• 1/4 cup (57g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (100g) packed light brown sugar
• 1 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons (43g) unsalted butter, melted
• 4 ounces (113g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream, as needed for consistency
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by greasing or lining it with muffin liners.

2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter. This mixture will form the cinnamon filling for your muffins; set aside.

3. In a larger bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg (if using).

4. In another bowl, whisk the large egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.

5. Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just blended. Avoid over-mixing to ensure your muffins stay fluffy.

6. Layer spoonfuls of batter and cinnamon filling into each muffin cup. Swirl lightly with a knife or toothpick to create a beautiful cinnamon swirl pattern.

7. Bake for 18–22 minutes, until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

8. Once finished, cool the muffins completely on a wire rack.

9. In a separate mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

10. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled muffins and allow it to set before serving.

HOW TO SERVE Cinnamon Roll Muffins

These cinnamon roll muffins are delightful on their own or with a cup of coffee or tea. For a balanced meal, serve them alongside fresh fruit to add vitamins and fiber to your snack. You can also portion them out to keep serving size in check, ensuring that each muffin can be a guilt-free part of your healthy lifestyle.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the muffins. To freeze, place them in a ziplock bag or airtight container with parchment paper between layers. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and warm them slightly before serving.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

For a healthy side option, consider serving these muffins with Greek yogurt or a protein smoothie. This combination can turn your morning snack into a balanced meal, providing protein and healthy fats, which is excellent for weight loss.

VARIATIONS

• Healthier Version: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to increase fiber content. You could also use a low-calorie sweetener instead of granulated sugar to make these muffins diabetic-friendly.

• High-Protein or Low-Carb Version: Use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour and include protein powder in the batter to boost protein levels. This version is excellent for anyone focusing on weight loss while wanting something sweet.

• Air Fryer Version: You can cook these muffins in an air fryer by reducing the temperature to 320°F (160°C) and checking for doneness after 12-15 minutes. This method can make them crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, providing a unique texture.

FAQs

1. How can I make these muffins gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that all the other ingredients, such as baking powder and vanilla extract, are also gluten-free.

2. Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Absolutely! These muffins are perfect for meal prep. You can make a batch over the weekend and store them to enjoy throughout the week.

3. Are these muffins low in calories?
Yes, by using lower-calorie ingredients like sugar substitutes and whole wheat flour, you can create a lighter option that is still delicious.

4. How should I store my muffins for freshness?
To keep your muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container. You can also freeze them for longer storage, as mentioned above.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Cinnamon Roll Muffins

For those busy mornings, these cinnamon roll muffins are a lifesaver. You can prepare the dry ingredients in advance and store them in a jar. In the morning, simply combine them with the wet ingredients and bake. This way, you can have a delicious, healthy breakfast ready in under 30 minutes. You can also make a batch over the weekend and store them for a quick breakfast option during the week. Cinnamon roll muffins are not only a delicious treat; they are also a fantastic meal prep choice.

Enjoy your cinnamon roll muffins and embrace the flavorful indulgence in this healthy and convenient way!

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