Imagine the soft, gooey warmth of a cinnamon roll in cupcake form! These Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes are fluffy, cinnamon-swirled treats topped with a sweet, creamy glaze. They offer the perfect balance of spice and sweetness, making them ideal for any occasion from casual get-togethers to special celebrations. With their delightful texture and irresistible flavor, these cupcakes will surely become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cupcakes:
- For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- For the Glaze:
- How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
- Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
- Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Step 5: Combine Ingredients
- Step 6: Incorporate Milk
- Step 7: Create Cinnamon Swirl Mixture
- Step 8: Fill Cupcake Liners
- Step 9: Swirl Mixtures Together
- Step 10: Bake
- Step 11: Cool
- Step 12: Make Glaze
- Step 13: Drizzle Glaze Over Cupcakes
- How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
- Pair with Coffee
- Add Fresh Fruit
- Whipped Cream Topping
- Ice Cream Delight
- Drizzle More Glaze
- How to Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
- Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
- Reheating Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes these Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes so special?
- Can I customize my Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes?
- How do I know when my Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes are done?
- Can I use dairy-free alternatives in this recipe?
- How long do these cupcakes last?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: These cupcakes come together quickly, making them perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Delicious Flavor: Enjoy the rich taste of cinnamon rolls in every bite of these cupcakes.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for parties, brunches, or just as a sweet treat at home.
- Fun Presentation: The swirling cinnamon-sugar mixture creates a beautiful marbled effect that’s visually appealing.
- Glaze Finish: The creamy glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
Tools and Preparation
To create these delightful Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Muffin tin
- Cupcake liners
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Whisk
- Toothpick or small knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Muffin tin: Essential for shaping your cupcakes to achieve that perfect round form.
- Hand mixer or stand mixer: Helps you cream ingredients efficiently for a fluffy batter with minimal effort.

Ingredients
Imagine the soft, gooey warmth of a cinnamon roll in cupcake form! These fluffy, cinnamon-swirled treats are topped with a sweet, creamy glaze, offering the perfect balance of spice and sweetness. A fun twist on a classic favorite you won’t want to miss!
For the Cupcakes:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup whole milk
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
* all-purpose flour,
* baking powder,
* baking soda,
* ground cinnamon,
* salt.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together:
* softened butter,
* granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time to the mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Alternately add the dry ingredients and sour cream to the butter mixture:
1. Start with dry ingredients.
2. End with dry ingredients.
Mix until just combined.
Step 6: Incorporate Milk
Add whole milk and gently mix until smooth.
Step 7: Create Cinnamon Swirl Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together:
* brown sugar,
* ground cinnamon for the swirl.
Drizzle melted butter into this mixture; stir until it forms a paste.
Step 8: Fill Cupcake Liners
Spoon a heaping tablespoon of batter into each cupcake liner. Top each with a small spoonful of the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Step 9: Swirl Mixtures Together
Use a toothpick or small knife to swirl the cinnamon-sugar mixture into the batter for that marbled effect. Add another heaping tablespoon of batter on top to fill liners about two-thirds full.
Step 10: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for 18–22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 11: Cool
Let cupcakes cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 12: Make Glaze
While cooling, whisk together:
* powdered sugar,
* milk,
* vanilla extract in a small bowl for your glaze.
Step 13: Drizzle Glaze Over Cupcakes
Once cooled completely, drizzle glaze over each cupcake. Allow it to set before serving.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes!
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion, these cupcakes pair well with different accompaniments.
Pair with Coffee
- Enjoy your cupcakes alongside a hot cup of coffee. The rich flavors of the coffee enhance the sweetness of the cinnamon rolls.
Add Fresh Fruit
- Serve with a side of fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries. The acidity of the fruit complements the sweetness of the cupcakes.
Whipped Cream Topping
- Top each cupcake with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft cupcake.
Ice Cream Delight
- Pair your cupcakes with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream. This combination adds a refreshing chill to each bite.
Drizzle More Glaze
- For those who love sweetness, drizzle additional glaze on top just before serving. It elevates the flavor and makes them even more indulgent.
How to Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
To make sure your Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes come out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your butter, eggs, and sour cream to reach room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and results in fluffier cupcakes.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense cupcakes instead of light and airy ones.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour. This avoids packing it down and ensures you don’t use too much flour.
- Watch Baking Time: Start checking your cupcakes at 18 minutes. Each oven is different, so look for a toothpick coming out clean from the center.
- Cool Completely Before Glazing: Let your cupcakes cool completely before adding glaze. This prevents it from melting and ensures a beautiful finish.
Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes are versatile enough to be served with various side dishes that complement their flavors perfectly.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mixture of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cupcakes.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that adds texture and tang.
- Coffee Cake: A slice of coffee cake makes for a delicious brunch duo when served alongside these sweet treats.
- Chai Tea: The spices in chai tea harmonize well with cinnamon flavors, creating a cozy pairing.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can offer a savory contrast to sweet cupcakes.
- Nut Mix: A bowl of spiced nuts provides crunch and balances the soft texture of the cinnamon roll cupcakes.
- Granola Bars: For an on-the-go option, serve granola bars that complement the cupcake’s flavor without overpowering it.
- Herbal Tea: Pairing these cupcakes with herbal tea can enhance the overall experience by adding soothing flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold butter and eggs can lead to a dense batter. Always bring your butter and eggs to room temperature before starting.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the cupcakes tough. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients are just combined for a light texture.
- Skipping the swirl: Not creating a cinnamon swirl can result in flavorless cupcakes. Be sure to mix the cinnamon-sugar paste into the batter properly for that signature taste.
- Ignoring oven temperature: An incorrect oven temperature can lead to uneven baking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy before baking.
- Not cooling completely before glazing: If you glaze while still warm, the icing will melt off. Let your cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack before adding the glaze.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep them at room temperature if you plan to consume within one day.
Freezing Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
- Place completely cooled cupcakes in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap cupcakes in foil and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds until warm, being careful not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Use a covered skillet on low heat for about 5 minutes, checking often to avoid burning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes these Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes so special?
These cupcakes combine the best features of traditional cinnamon rolls with the convenience of cupcakes, making them perfect for any occasion.
Can I customize my Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips to personalize your flavor profile.
How do I know when my Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes are done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with only a few crumbs, they are ready.
Can I use dairy-free alternatives in this recipe?
Yes! Substitute sour cream and milk with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut yogurt if desired.
How long do these cupcakes last?
Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or up to 3 months in the freezer when stored properly.
Final Thoughts
Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes are not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize them according to your taste preferences. With their soft texture and sweet glaze, they offer a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the warm flavors of cinnamon rolls in cupcake form!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
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Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors with these Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes, a sweet twist on a classic favorite. Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy cupcake infused with warm cinnamon swirls and topped with a creamy glaze. Perfect for any occasion, these treats bring the comforting essence of traditional cinnamon rolls into a fun cupcake form. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or simply treating yourself at home, their irresistible charm makes them a must-try. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, these cupcakes will surely become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time to the mixture, beating well after each addition, and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and sour cream to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Add whole milk and gently mix until smooth.
- In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and ground cinnamon for the swirl. Drizzle melted butter into this mixture and stir until it forms a paste.
- Spoon a heaping tablespoon of batter into each cupcake liner, top with a small spoonful of the cinnamon-sugar mixture, and swirl together using a toothpick.
- Fill liners about two-thirds full with batter. Bake in preheated oven for 18–22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let cupcakes cool in tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While cooling, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract for the glaze.
- Once cooled completely, drizzle glaze over each cupcake and allow it to set before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 22 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg