Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Name: Cinnamon Roll Muffins
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup milk; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon instant yeast; ⅔ cup milk, warmed (not hot); 1 large egg; ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted; ¾ cup brown sugar; 1 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened; ¼ cup block cream cheese, softened; 1 tablespoon milk; ½ cup confectioners' sugar; ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

By:

dani

Published:

February 24, 2026

[grow_share_buttons]

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Cinnamon Roll Muffins are the ultimate way to enjoy the classic flavors of cinnamon rolls without all the fuss. Picture this: a warm, cozy morning, your favorite coffee brewing, and a batch of these delicious muffins rising in the oven, filling your home with an irresistible aroma. There’s something about that sweet, buttery smell that just makes you feel content, doesn’t it? These muffins are not just easy to make; they’re also perfect for sharing—or for keeping all to yourself!

With the delightful melding of soft dough, rich cinnamon filling, and a creamy glaze on top, each bite is an experience to cherish. So, whether you’re planning a brunch, looking for a sweet treat for your family, or simply want to indulge in a cozy afternoon snack, these Cinnamon Roll Muffins will quickly become a favorite. Let’s jump into this delightful recipe together!

Why This Recipe Works

One of the key secrets to achieving that pillowy texture in your Cinnamon Roll Muffins lies in the use of tangzhong. This technique involves cooking a small amount of flour with water or milk, creating a paste that ensures the muffins remain soft and tender. So, each muffin feels like a fluffy cloud as you bite into it.

Also, by combining warm milk and butter, the richness of the muffins is significantly enhanced, giving you that melt-in-your-mouth sensation. This combination perfectly balances the flavors and textures, making these muffins truly special. And, of course, who wouldn’t love a recipe that merges the best parts of cinnamon rolls and muffins? It’s a quick and delightful treat that suits any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Roll Muffins

First off, these muffins are incredibly portable. You don’t need a fork or plate, making them perfect for sharing or grabbing on the go. Plus, as they bake, the heavenly aroma of cinnamon envelops your kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes everyone feel right at home.

Once baked, these treats are finished with a creamy glaze that adds a delicious sweetness, taking the experience to a whole new level. Trust me, one bite of these Cinnamon Roll Muffins and you’ll be hooked—they’re a sweet indulgence that satisfies any craving!

Ingredients

To get started, gather the following ingredients:

For the tangzhong:
½ cup milk
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the dough:
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons brown sugar
¼ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon instant yeast
⅔ cup milk, warmed (not hot)
1 large egg
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
For the filling:
¾ cup brown sugar
1 ½ tablespoons ground cinnamon
6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
For the cream cheese glaze:
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
¼ cup block cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon milk
½ cup confectioners’ sugar
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

Preparing the Tangzhong

Whisk Ingredients Together

Start by whisking together the milk and flour in a small saucepan until the mixture is smooth. This will create the base for your tangzhong.

Cook the Mixture

Now, heat this mixture over medium heat, whisking continuously until it begins to thicken. Once it reaches a pudding-like consistency, remove it from heat and let it cool until warm.

Making the Dough

Combine Ingredients

Next, in the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, brown sugar, salt, instant yeast, warm milk, egg, melted butter, and your prepared tangzhong.

Knead the Dough

Using the hook attachment, knead the mixture for about 5 to 10 minutes until the dough is smooth and just slightly sticky. If you prefer, you can also knead by hand on a floured surface for the same duration.

Allow the Dough to Rise

Now, place the dough in an oiled bowl. Cover it with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it doubles in size. Alternatively, for a more developed flavor, you can let it rise overnight in the refrigerator.

Creating the Cinnamon Filling

Mix Filling Ingredients

While waiting for the dough to rise, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well mixed, and then set this yummy mixture aside.

Assembling the Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Prepare Muffin Tin

Before continuing, line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners; this will make it easy to serve the muffins later.

Punch Down the Dough

Once your dough has risen beautifully, gently punch it down to release any air. This step is essential to ensure a nice texture in your muffins!

Roll Out the Dough

Now, turn the dough out onto a floured surface and roll it into a 12×16-inch rectangle.

Add Filling

Spread the softened butter evenly over the dough, but remember to leave that ½-inch strip at the top bare. Then, sprinkle your cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered surface.

Roll and Cut

Carefully roll the dough tightly into a log, starting from the bottom edge. Once rolled, slice your log into 12 even rolls using a sharp knife or string.

Place in Muffin Tin

Arrange the rolls in your lined muffin tin, ensuring they are snug but not overly crowded. Cover them with plastic wrap again and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes until they double in size.

Baking the Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Preheat Oven

Now it’s time to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the muffins complete their second rise.

Bake the Muffins

Once the oven is ready, remove the plastic wrap and bake the muffins for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown. After baking, let them sit in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool.

Making the Cream Cheese Glaze

Combine Glaze Ingredients

In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, cream cheese, milk, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract.

Mix Until Smooth

Beat the mixture with an electric mixer until it’s light and creamy. If you don’t have a mixer, you can whisk it by hand until everything is well combined.

Drizzle Over Muffins

Once the muffins have cooled slightly, drizzle the glaze generously over the tops. This final touch makes them look and taste even better!

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these muffins warm for breakfast, or indulge in one as a delightful afternoon snack alongside a cup of your favorite brew. They’re versatile and truly satisfying at any time of day!

Tips for Success

Ensure your yeast is fresh; this is vital for a good rise.
Be patient and allow ample rising time for fluffier muffins.

Variations

Feel free to get creative! Add nuts or dried fruits to the filling for a different texture. You could also spice things up with nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist on the classic flavors.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze them. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat!

Pairing Ideas

These muffins pair beautifully with a rich cup of coffee or a cozy mug of chai. You might also enjoy them with fresh fruit on the side for a more balanced breakfast.

FAQs

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, absolutely! Prepare the dough and filling the night before, refrigerate, and bake fresh in the morning for a quick breakfast treat.

2. What if I don’t have instant yeast?
No worries! You can substitute it with active dry yeast, but remember to activate it first in warm water.

3. Can I freeze cinnamon roll muffins?
You bet! Just freeze them after baking, then reheat in the oven for a quick and delightful snack.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Keep any extras in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

5. Can I use a different type of flour?
While all-purpose flour is recommended, feel free to experiment with a blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for a healthier version.

With these Cinnamon Roll Muffins, you have a treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether shared with friends and family or enjoyed during a quiet moment, they promise to fill your home with warmth and joy. Their sweet cinnamon flavor and fluffy texture make them too tempting to resist. Enjoy the baking process and the delicious results!