Welcome to a delightful baking adventure with these Cinnamon Sugar Muffins. Each muffin is infused with the warm essence of cinnamon and nutmeg, paired beautifully with a sugary crust that crackles with each bite. These muffins are versatile and perfect for any time of day—enjoy them fresh in the morning, as a sweet afternoon treat, or even as a comforting dessert. Customize each batch with optional toppings like fresh berries or a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra special touch.
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
Directions
- Prepare the Muffin Batter:
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. This dry mixture forms the base of the muffin batter.
- In a separate large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, eggs, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Make sure the ingredients are well combined to form a smooth, cohesive mixture.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense muffins.
- Cook the Muffins:
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full to allow for expansion during baking.
- Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. The muffins should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.
- Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- In a shallow dish, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This mixture will be used to coat the muffin tops.
- While the muffins are still warm, dip the tops into the cinnamon sugar mixture, pressing gently to ensure the sugar adheres. This step adds a delightful crunch and extra flavor to the muffins.
- Make it Crispy:
- For an extra crispy top, return the muffins to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent overbaking, which can cause them to dry out.
These cinnamon sugar muffins are a comforting treat that perfectly blends spice and sweetness, making them irresistible to anyone who tries them. Enjoy crafting these delightful treats and sharing the warmth with others!