These Cinnamon Sugar Muffins are soft, tender, and loaded with warm cinnamon flavor. With a buttery crumb and a delicious cinnamon-sugar topping, these muffins capture the comforting taste of a cinnamon doughnut but in an easy-to-make muffin form. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat, these muffins will quickly become a family favorite. Their simple ingredients and quick preparation make them ideal for cozy mornings or whenever you need a touch of sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love these Cinnamon Sugar Muffins for their light, fluffy texture and irresistible cinnamon-sugar coating. They’re easy to whip up with pantry staples and deliver a deliciously comforting flavor that’s perfect any time of day. Whether you’re pairing them with a cup of coffee, enjoying them on a crisp morning, or serving them to guests, these muffins bring a warm, sweet touch to any occasion.

Expert Tips and Tricks

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Room temperature butter and eggs help create a smooth batter and even texture.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix the batter just until combined to keep the muffins light and tender.
• Generously Coat in Cinnamon Sugar: Roll the warm muffins in the cinnamon-sugar mixture for that classic doughnut-like coating.
• Add a Touch of Nutmeg: For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for a hint of spice.
• Use a Cookie Scoop: To portion the batter evenly, use a cookie scoop to fill the muffin cups.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

• Maple Twist: Add a teaspoon of maple extract to the batter for a maple-cinnamon flavor.
• Add Nuts: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and flavor.
• Brown Sugar Topping: Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in the topping for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these muffins gluten-free.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve these Cinnamon Sugar Muffins warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey for extra indulgence. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, making them ideal for breakfast or a cozy snack. You can also serve them alongside fresh fruit or yogurt for a well-rounded breakfast spread.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the muffins in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm individual muffins in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to enjoy them soft and fresh-tasting.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make these muffins ahead of time? Yes, these muffins can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container. For best results, coat them in cinnamon sugar just before serving.

Can I use a different type of sugar for the topping? Brown sugar works well for a slightly deeper flavor, and powdered sugar can give a lighter, softer coating.

What can I add to make the muffins extra moist? Adding a spoonful of sour cream or yogurt to the batter will make the muffins even more tender and moist.

Can I make these muffins mini-sized? Yes, simply bake in a mini muffin tin and reduce the baking time to about 10-12 minutes.

How do I keep the cinnamon-sugar topping from falling off? Dip the muffins in melted butter before rolling in cinnamon sugar to help the topping adhere.