Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These swirled cinnamon and sugar muffins are a perfect blend of sweet and spicy flavors. They offer a comforting and satisfying treat that’s ideal for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. With a light, fluffy texture and a mouthwatering cinnamon-sugar swirl in every bite, these muffins are sure to become a household favorite. The best part? They are easy to make and customize with various toppings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the muffins:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats

For the cinnamon sugar swirl:

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the streusel topping (optional):

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup white sugar
• 1/2 stick softened butter
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the cream cheese glaze (optional):

• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1/4 cup white sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2-3 tablespoons milk

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease the cups.
2. In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon for the swirl and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk the flour and baking powder. Set aside.
4. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
5. Mix in the sour cream and milk until smooth.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and fold until just combined.
7. Fill muffin cups halfway with batter, then sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar mixture. Add the remaining batter and swirl with a toothpick to create a marbled effect.
8. If using, top with the streusel topping before baking.
9. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Let the muffins cool, then drizzle with cream cheese glaze if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 muffins
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Fruit Infusions: Add blueberries, diced apples, or raspberries for a fruity twist.
• Nutty Additions: Try adding chopped pecans or almonds for some crunch.
• Exotic Spices: Experiment with cardamom, nutmeg, or ginger for unique flavor variations.
• Dietary Modifications: Use gluten-free flour or non-dairy milk to suit dietary needs. Vegans can replace eggs with flaxseed or applesauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days.
• Freeze for up to 3 months in a sealed bag, thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.

FAQs

How can I make these muffins fluffier?

Make sure not to overmix the batter, and use fresh baking powder to ensure they rise properly.

Can I freeze these muffins?

Yes! They freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or placed in a sealed freezer bag.

Can I substitute the sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute with yogurt or buttermilk if you prefer.

What can I use instead of butter?

You can use vegetable oil or coconut oil as a substitute for butter.

Can I add other spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with nutmeg, cloves, or even a dash of vanilla extract.

How do I know when the muffins are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean, the muffins are done.

Can I make these muffins in mini size?

Yes, adjust the baking time to 10-12 minutes for mini muffins.

What other toppings can I add to these muffins?

A simple glaze, powdered sugar, or even chopped nuts can enhance the flavor.

Is there a way to make these muffins less sweet?

Reduce the amount of sugar in the batter or use a sugar substitute.

Can I make this recipe without oats?

Yes, the oats are optional. You can skip them and still have delicious muffins.

Conclusion

These swirled cinnamon and sugar muffins are a delightful combination of sweet, spicy, and soft flavors. With their simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, they’re perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or a mid-day snack, they’re sure to impress. The versatility of this recipe allows for various flavor additions, making it a go-to for both novice and experienced bakers alike!

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