Name: Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe
Prep time: 1 h 30 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 20 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 but 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

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 13 reviews

If you adore the comforting warmth of cinnamon rolls but want a fuss-free way to enjoy them, this Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe is just the treat for you! These delightful muffins capture all the soft, buttery goodness of classic cinnamon rolls, wrapped up in individual servings that are perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself. With a tender yeasted dough swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze, these muffins make mornings brighter and snack times sweeter. Trust me, once you try this Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed cinnamon rolls any other way!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A light grey pot with a smooth white handle sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a creamy pale off-white sauce being whisked by a metal whisk covered in the same sauce. Around the pot, there are several white bowls: one large bowl at the top left filled with white flour, a small bowl at the top right filled with softened butter that is pale yellow with a smooth texture, a small bowl to the right with light brown sugar, a small bowl at the bottom right with darker brown sugar, and a small bowl at the bottom left edge containing white shredded coconut. The scene shows a clean and bright workspace focused on mixing ingredients photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might look simple, but each one is essential to creating the perfect texture, flavor, and that irresistible golden color. From the creamy tangzhong that keeps the muffins tender to the cinnamon sugar filling that adds that iconic spice, everything works in harmony to bring this recipe to life.

Milk (½ cup and ⅔ cup warmed): Used for the tangzhong and dough, milk helps keep the muffins moist and tender.
All-purpose flour (3 cups plus 2 tbsp for tangzhong): Provides the structure and softness of the muffins with a delicate crumb.
Brown sugar (2 tbsp and ¾ cup): Adds caramel notes and sweetness, perfectly complementing the cinnamon.
Salt (¼ tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances the dough’s flavor.
Instant yeast (1 tsp): Gives the dough that wonderful rise and fluffiness.
Egg (1 large): Contributes to the muffin’s rich texture and golden finish.
Unsalted butter (¼ cup melted, 6 tbsp softened, 2 tbsp softened): Adds richness and ensures the dough is tender; also used in the filling and glaze.
Ground cinnamon (1½ tbsp): The star spice that fills these muffins with mouthwatering warmth.
Block cream cheese (¼ cup softened): Key for creating that dreamy cream cheese glaze with the perfect balance of tang and sweetness.
Confectioners’ sugar (½ cup): Sweetens and thickens the glaze for a smooth drizzle.
Vanilla extract (¼ tsp): Adds aromatic depth to the glaze’s flavor.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the tangzhong

The tangzhong is a simple mixture of milk and flour cooked until thickened; it locks moisture into the dough, delivering buttery softness that lasts. Whisk the two together in a small saucepan over medium heat until streaks appear with your whisk, then let it cool to just warm before adding to the dough.

Step 2: Make the dough

Gather all your ingredients into the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a hook attachment. Combine flour, sugar, salt, yeast, warmed milk, egg, melted butter, and the cooled tangzhong. Knead on medium speed for 5 to 10 minutes until the dough becomes soft, smooth, and only slightly sticky. If you prefer, knead by hand on a floured surface with love and patience—the texture will be just as delightful. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it snugly, and set it somewhere warm to rise until doubled in size, approximately one hour. For a slower, flavor-rich rise, you can refrigerate overnight.

Step 3: Prepare the cinnamon filling

While your dough is rising, mix together brown sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This is the sweet and spicy core of your muffins, so whisk until perfectly blended for even flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Shape and fill the rolls

After the dough has doubled, punch it down gently and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a 12×16-inch rectangle. Spread softened butter evenly across the surface, leaving a ½-inch border unbuttered at the top edge to help the roll seal nicely. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the butter with generous care. Roll the dough tightly from the long side closest to you, creating a log. Use string, floss, or a serrated knife to slice the log into 12 even rounds. Place each round into a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners for easy handling and a neat presentation. Give the muffins another warm spot to rise until puffed up and almost doubled, about 20 to 30 minutes.

Step 5: Bake the muffins

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cinnamon roll muffins for 20 to 25 minutes until the tops are golden and baked through. Let them cool for 5 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack. This cooling period helps set the shape and makes glazing easier.

Step 6: Prepare and drizzle the cream cheese glaze

Whip together softened butter, cream cheese, milk, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract until light and creamy using a hand mixer or a whisk. Once the muffins have cooled slightly but are still warm, drizzle this luscious glaze generously over each muffin. The glaze melts lightly into the warm tops, elevating every bite to pure bliss.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe

Five cinnamon rolls with a golden-brown crust are placed on a white plate. Each roll has a clear spiral pattern showing layers of dough and cinnamon filling in a dark brown shade. The rolls have a soft, slightly fluffy texture, and one roll has a small white paper liner at the bottom. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and parts of other white plates and a bowl with light-colored liquid are seen nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra touch of charm and flavor, sprinkle your muffins with a pinch of cinnamon or chopped toasted pecans right after glazing. You can also add a quick dusting of powdered sugar for a pretty finish that feels extra special. Fresh berries on the side brighten the plate both visually and taste-wise, complementing the warm spices beautifully.

Side Dishes

These muffins shine wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness. For a nourishing breakfast spread, pair them with fresh fruit or a creamy yogurt parfait to add refreshing contrast and texture. They’re equally fantastic alongside scrambled eggs or crispy bacon for a brunch that feels like a celebration.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your cinnamon roll muffins in a rustic basket lined with a pretty cloth for a cozy vibe. You can also pop individual muffins into colorful cupcake liners and place them on tiered dessert stands for gatherings. Bonus idea: drizzle the glaze in creative patterns or pipe it on with a piping bag for an Instagram-worthy look!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover cinnamon roll muffins tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature. They keep best for up to 2 days while maintaining tenderness and freshness. If your kitchen is warm, refrigerate to prevent spoiling, but let them come back to room temperature before enjoying.

Freezing

These muffins freeze like a dream. After baking and cooling completely, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature or gently reheat when you want to enjoy a homemade treat any time.

Reheating

Toasting gently or microwaving for 15-20 seconds brings back that soft, warm texture that feels like a hug. For the best experience, drizzle some extra glaze or a dab of butter before reheating to revive their moistness and flavor.

FAQs

Can I make these muffins without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! You can knead the dough by hand on a lightly floured surface for about 5 to 10 minutes. It takes a bit more elbow grease but still yields wonderfully soft and fluffy muffins.

What is tangzhong and why is it used in this recipe?

Tangzhong is a cooked mixture of flour and milk that creates a gel to lock moisture into the dough. It helps these muffins stay super soft and fresh for longer compared to traditional bread dough recipes.

Can I substitute the cream cheese glaze for something else?

While the cream cheese glaze is classic and delicious, you can swap it for a simple vanilla or maple glaze, or even a dusting of powdered sugar if you prefer a lighter topping.

How do I know when the muffins are fully baked?

Look for golden brown tops and a firm but soft feel when gently pressed. You can also insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Gluten-free baking can be tricky with yeasted doughs like this one. If you want to try, look for a gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast breads and be prepared for a difference in texture. Alternatively, enjoy the recipe as is for the best classic experience!

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Roll Muffins Recipe is a new favorite that transforms your love for cinnamon rolls into an effortless, shareable delight. Soft, buttery, and drizzled with that heavenly glaze, these muffins are perfect for mornings, brunches, or anytime you crave a sweet, comforting snack. Don’t hesitate—grab your ingredients and treat yourself to these magical muffins today. Your taste buds will thank you!