Cinnamon Sugar Muffins are the perfect fusion of sweet, spiced goodness and a fluffy, tender texture. These muffins are a delightful treat that can brighten up your mornings, serve as a midday pick-me-up, or even satisfy late-night dessert cravings. The warm notes of cinnamon and nutmeg, paired with the sweet crunch of a cinnamon sugar topping, make these muffins irresistible. They’re quick to whip up and bake, making them an excellent choice for busy weekdays or leisurely weekend breakfasts.
The real charm of Cinnamon Sugar Muffins lies in their simplicity and versatility. While delicious on their own, you can easily elevate them with toppings like whipped cream, fresh berries, or a drizzle of maple syrup for a more indulgent experience. Whether served warm with coffee or packed for an on-the-go snack, these muffins are guaranteed to become a household favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Classic Flavor: The warm, sweet combination of cinnamon and nutmeg creates a comforting, nostalgic taste.
• Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, and easy to customize with optional toppings.
• Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and minimal prep time make these muffins a breeze to bake.
Ingredients
For the Muffins:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Optional Toppings:
• Whipped cream
• Powdered sugar
• Fresh berries
• Maple syrup
• Chopped nuts
Instructions
Prepare the Muffin Batter:
1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners for easy removal and clean-up.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, eggs, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to ensure light, fluffy muffins.
Cook the Muffins:
1. Fill the Muffin Cups: Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full to allow for rising.
2. Bake: Place the tin in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The muffins are done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the tops are golden brown.
3. Cool: Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
1. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
2. Coat the Muffins: While the muffins are still warm, dip the tops into the cinnamon sugar mixture, pressing gently to ensure the topping adheres.
Make it Crispy (Optional):
1. Extra Crispy Topping: Return the coated muffins to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes to achieve a slightly crispy, caramelized top. Watch closely to avoid overbaking.
Tips
• Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until the ingredients are combined to avoid dense muffins.
• Fresh Spices: Use freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg for the best flavor.
• Warm Coating: Coat the muffins while they’re warm to help the cinnamon sugar adhere better.
Storage Options
• Room Temperature: Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Extend their freshness by refrigerating for up to a week. Bring to room temperature or warm briefly before serving.
• Freezing: Wrap muffins individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for a quick treat.
Cinnamon Sugar Muffins are a timeless classic, perfect for every occasion. Whether enjoyed plain or dressed up with toppings, these muffins are guaranteed to bring warmth and sweetness to your table!
