Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThere’s something delightfully enchanting about the aroma of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen, and with these cinnamon roll cupcakes, you can bring that magic right to your table. Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy cupcake that perfectly captures the gooey goodness of your favorite cinnamon roll, topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that adds a touch of sweetness. What makes these easy cinnamon roll cupcakes even better is their simple preparation—no yeast or complicated dough required! They make for a fantastic dessert option at gatherings, delivering both comfort and joy to anyone who indulges. Ready to discover a dessert that will leave your taste buds dancing? Let’s dive into the delicious world of homemade cinnamon roll cupcakes! Why Are Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Irresistible? Warm, Cozy Aroma: The moment these cupcakes bake, your kitchen fills with a heavenly scent that beckons everyone to the table. Easy Preparation: With no yeast or complex steps involved, these easy cinnamon roll cupcakes are a breeze to whip up anytime. Decadent Swirls: Each bite offers delightful swirls of cinnamon sugar that emulate the beloved flavor of traditional cinnamon rolls. Versatile Toppings: Feel free to elevate your cupcakes with variations—try drizzling orange-infused cream cheese frosting or some toasted nuts on top for an extra pop! Crowd-Pleaser: They’re perfect for gatherings, whether enjoying a cozy coffee morning or serving as a sweet dessert at parties. Dive into these delightful homemade cinnamon roll cupcakes and experience a sweet treat that will surely transform your dessert game! Don’t forget to check out our Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread for more scrumptious ideas! Cinnamon Roll Cupcake Ingredients • Bring your baking dreams to life with these easy cinnamon roll cupcakes! For the Batter All-Purpose Flour – The foundation for a fluffy texture; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Baking Powder – Essential for leavening; always check its freshness for best results. Baking Soda – Provides additional lift; crucial for achieving a light, airy cupcake. Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warm spice; using freshly ground cinnamon elevates the flavor. Salt – Balances sweetness; just a pinch makes all the difference in flavor. Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; for a dairy-free alternative, try vegan butter. Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and retains moisture; brown sugar can enhance depth of flavor. Large Eggs – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture; flax eggs work for a vegan option. Vanilla Extract – Provides a warm background flavor; always use pure for best results. Sour Cream – Contributes moisture and tang; yogurt or buttermilk work as suitable substitutes. Whole Milk – Ensures the right consistency; feel free to use any plant-based milk you prefer. For the Cinnamon Sugar Brown Sugar – Creates that warm sweetness and depth; adjust the quantity according to your taste. Ground Cinnamon – Amplifies the beloved cinnamon flavor; a must for authentic cinnamon roll goodness. For the Frosting Powdered Sugar – Delivers the sweetness in your frosting; sugar alternatives can be used here. Milk (for frosting) – Helps achieve the desired frosting consistency; adjust based on your preference. Vanilla Extract (for frosting) – Enhances the frosting flavor; opting for pure vanilla is always recommended. Dive into this delightful recipe for homemade cinnamon roll cupcakes, and surprise your loved ones with a warm and inviting treat fresh from your kitchen! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin your cinnamon roll cupcake adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cupcakes bake evenly for that soft, gooey texture. While the oven heats, grab a muffin tin and line it with cupcake liners to protect your delicious treats and make for easy serving. Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This mixture forms the base of your cinnamon roll cupcakes. Once combined, set this bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients, keeping in mind that proper mixing is key to a fluffy result. Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar In a separate bowl, beat together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—this should take about 2-3 minutes. Incorporate 2 large eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition. The creamy texture of this mixture is essential for a tender cupcake, so give it a little love. Step 4: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients Now it’s time to combine your mixtures! Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with ½ cup of sour cream and ½ cup of whole milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain that lovely, tender crumb in your cinnamon roll cupcakes. Step 5: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Then, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and mix it with the cinnamon sugar to create a thick, paste-like consistency. This delightful cinnamon sugar will provide swirls of flavor throughout your cupcakes, adding that classic cinnamon roll goodness. Step 6: Fill Cupcake Liners Spoon the batter into the cupcake liners until they’re about two-thirds full. Once you’ve filled them, add a generous layer of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top of each. Finally, finish by adding a bit more cupcake batter to seal in the delicious cinnamon swirl magic you’ve just created. Step 7: Swirl the Mixture Using a toothpick or a skewer, gently swirl the cinnamon sugar mixture through the top layer of batter in each cupcake. This step will create those beautiful, spiraling patterns that resemble traditional cinnamon rolls. Be careful not to overdo it; a few swirls will leave the cupcakes looking lovely and swirled. Step 8: Bake Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake your cinnamon roll cupcakes for 18–22 minutes. They are ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the edges are lightly golden. The heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen will be hard to resist during this step! Step 9: Cool the Cupcakes Once baked, allow the cinnamon roll cupcakes to cool in the muffin tin for about 5 minutes. Afterward, gently transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling process is crucial for ensuring a perfect texture before you adorn them with frosting. Step 10: Make the Frosting To prepare the delicious cream cheese frosting, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. This velvety frosting will be the crowning touch to your cinnamon roll cupcakes, adding a sweetness that complements the spiced flavor. Step 11: Frost the Cupcakes Once your cinnamon roll cupcakes are completely cooled, generously drizzle the prepared frosting over the tops with a spoon or a piping bag. The sweet cream cheese frosting will beautifully blend with the warm cinnamon flavor, transforming each cupcake into a delightful indulgence ready to be devoured. How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Room Temperature: Keep cinnamon roll cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture and flavor. Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate your cupcakes for up to a week; however, allow them to come to room temperature for the best taste before serving. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the un-frosted cinnamon roll cupcakes for up to 3 months. Individually wrap them in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and then warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, just until cozy. Expert Tips for Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is soft and at room temperature to achieve a light, fluffy batter that bakes beautifully. Mind Your Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter once the flour is added; too much mixing can lead to a tough texture, ruining your easy cinnamon roll cupcakes. Perfect Swirls: When adding the cinnamon sugar, use a toothpick gently to create pretty swirls, but don’t overdo it; a few swirls will allow for a lovely pattern without mixing it in completely. Cooling Time Matters: Let the cupcakes cool thoroughly on a wire rack before frosting to prevent the icing from melting and sliding off, ensuring a beautiful final presentation. Flavor Variations: Experiment with adding nuts or raisins to the batter for added texture, or try a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the frosting for a delightful contrast with the sweetness. What to Serve with Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes? Elevate your indulgent experience with delightful pairings that perfectly complement these sweet treats. Fresh Berries: The tartness of raspberries or strawberries balances the sweetness of the cupcakes, creating a refreshing contrast. Coffee or Espresso: Pairing with a rich cup of coffee enhances the warm spices, making each bite taste even better. Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream adds an airy touch, perfect for those who enjoy a little bit of extra sweetness. Hot Chocolate: For a cozy twist, enjoy your cupcakes alongside a warm mug of rich hot chocolate during a chilly afternoon. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over the warm cupcakes, creating a luscious dessert experience. Maple Glazed Bacon: The savory crunch of bacon with a maple glaze contrasts sweet and salty flavors, balancing every delectable bite. Indulging in these pairings will only amplify the blissful experience of your cinnamon roll cupcakes, leaving everyone craving just a little more! Make Ahead Options These cinnamon roll cupcakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cupcake batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can mix the cinnamon sugar and keep it ready to go. When it’s time to bake, just add the cinnamon sugar mixture to the batter and swirl before baking. For best results, frost the cupcakes just before serving to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh and delicious. Following these steps allows you to enjoy warm, gooey cinnamon roll cupcakes with minimal effort on busy weeknights! Cinnamon Roll Cupcake Variations Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful cupcakes to suit your taste buds! Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a tasty gluten-free treat. Dairy-Free: Replace unsalted butter and milk with vegan butter and almond milk to make these cupcakes dairy-free. Reduced Sugar: Use a sugar substitute in the frosting to cut back on sweetness without sacrificing flavor. Nutty Delight: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a crunchy texture that complements the cinnamon swirl beautifully. Extra Spice: For a bolder kick, increase the ground cinnamon or add a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for an aromatic twist. Frosting Twist: Infuse your cream cheese frosting with lemon zest or maple syrup for a unique flavor experience. Fruity Addition: Mix in diced apples or pears into the batter for moist, fruity bites that brighten up each cupcake. Iced Version: Drizzle your cupcakes with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for a refreshing finish. Looking for more sweet treats? Don’t miss out on our scrumptious Cinnamon Roll Sugar Cookies for a tasty variation to try with your loved ones! Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe FAQs What type of flour should I use for cinnamon roll cupcakes? You can use all-purpose flour for these cinnamon roll cupcakes to achieve a light and fluffy texture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, simply substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure the blend can be used as a one-to-one ratio for optimal results! How should I store cinnamon roll cupcakes? To keep your cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’re worried they won’t last, you can refrigerate them for up to a week but allow them to come back to room temperature before serving, as this will enhance their flavor and texture. Can I freeze cinnamon roll cupcakes? Absolutely! Freeze your un-frosted cinnamon roll cupcakes for up to 3 months. Wrap each cupcake individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the fridge overnight and warm briefly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. What if my cupcakes turn out dry? If you find your cupcakes are dry, it could be due to overbaking. Make sure to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick around the 18-minute mark; they should be clean—but not overbaked. Additionally, ensure your measurements are precise and don’t skip the sour cream, as it adds moisture. Are cinnamon roll cupcakes safe for kids and those with common allergies? These cinnamon roll cupcakes contain eggs, dairy, and gluten, which can trigger allergies in some. For a kid-friendly version, consider using flax eggs and dairy-free substitutes like coconut milk or almond milk. Always check for specific allergy concerns based on your guests. How can I enhance the flavor of my cinnamon roll cupcakes? For an exciting flavor twist, try infusing your cream cheese frosting with orange zest or incorporate nuts or raisins into the batter. These little additions can elevate the classic cinnamon flavor and create a unique taste experience that everyone will love. Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes: Your New Favorite Easy Dessert Delight Cinnamon roll cupcakes are a delightful dessert, capturing the essence of traditional cinnamon rolls in a soft, fluffy treat. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 22 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 47 minutes mins Servings: 12 cupcakesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 250 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Batter2 cups all-purpose flour substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version2 teaspoons baking powder check freshness for best results0.5 teaspoon baking soda provides additional lift1 teaspoon ground cinnamon freshly ground elevates flavora pinch salt balances sweetness0.5 cups unsalted butter for dairy-free, try vegan butter1 cup granulated sugar brown sugar can enhance flavor2 large eggs flax eggs work for vegan option2 teaspoons vanilla extract use pure for best results0.5 cups sour cream yogurt or buttermilk are suitable substitutes0.5 cups whole milk any plant-based milk can be usedFor the Cinnamon Sugar0.25 cups brown sugar adjust quantity to taste1 tablespoon ground cinnamon crucial for authentic cinnamon flavorFor the Frosting1 cup powdered sugar sugar alternatives can be used2 tablespoons milk adjust based on preference1 teaspoon vanilla extract opt for pure vanilla Equipment muffin tinMixing bowlsWhiskSpoontoothpick Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.Combine Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.Cream Butter and Sugar: Beat together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, then add eggs and vanilla.Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with sour cream and milk.Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: In a bowl, combine brown sugar and cinnamon, then mix with melted butter.Fill Cupcake Liners: Spoon batter into liners, add cinnamon sugar on top, and seal with more batter.Swirl the Mixture: Use a toothpick to swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter.Bake: Bake for 18-22 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.Cool the Cupcakes: Cool in the tin for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.Make the Frosting: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.Frost the Cupcakes: Drizzle frosting over cupcakes once they are completely cooled. Nutrition Serving: 1cupcakeCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 3gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg NotesUse room temperature butter for better batter texture. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender cupcake. Let cupcakes cool before frosting for best presentation. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
