Cinnamon-Flavored Breakfast Muffins

There’s something incredibly comforting about the warm, sweet aroma of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen on a crisp morning. It instantly transports me to cozy weekends spent sipping coffee while flipping through my favorite book. That’s precisely why I adore these Cinnamon-Flavored Breakfast Muffins. They’re fluffy, flavorful, and just the right balance of sweet and spicy to kickstart your day on a delightful note.

Over the years, I’ve tinkered with different muffin recipes, but this one holds a special place in my heart. The combination of cinnamon and a tender crumb makes them irresistible. Plus, they’re quick to whip up, making them perfect for busy mornings or leisurely brunches. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to make these delightful treats.

What You Need To Make This Recipe

All-purpose flour: This forms the base of the muffins, providing structure while keeping them soft and fluffy.

Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps to create a tender crumb. It also balances the warmth of the cinnamon.

Brown sugar: Brings a deeper, caramel-like flavor that complements the cinnamon beautifully.

Baking powder: Essential for that lovely rise, giving your muffins their light and airy texture.

Ground cinnamon: The star of the show, it infuses the muffins with a warm, spicy-sweet flavor that’s simply irresistible.

Salt: A pinch enhances the other flavors, making the cinnamon pop even more.

Milk: Adds moisture, ensuring the muffins are soft and not dry. Whole milk works best, but you can use any milk of your choice.

Unsalted butter: Provides richness and flavor. Using melted butter gives the muffins a tender crumb.

Eggs: They bind everything together and add structure, helping the muffins hold their shape.

Vanilla extract: Adds a hint of warmth and depth, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Ingredients List

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk (whole or preferred variety)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Cinnamon-Flavored Breakfast Muffins

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease with non-stick spray.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well mixed.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold the mixture with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins dense.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin

Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Enjoy

Let the muffins cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor!

Tips for Making This Recipe

Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in dense muffins. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
Adjust cinnamon to taste: If you’re a big cinnamon fan, feel free to add an extra 1/2 teaspoon for a bolder flavor.
Add-ins: Consider adding chopped nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
Storage: Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to a month.
Reheat for freshness: Warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to revive that fresh-baked taste.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the texture will be denser. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a balance.

Can I make these muffins dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the milk with almond, soy, or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative.

How do I know when the muffins are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re done.

Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to bake the batter immediately, but you can prepare the dry and wet ingredients separately and combine them just before baking.

Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar slightly without affecting the texture too much, but keep in mind it will alter the sweetness.