Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing the warm, gooey magic of a cinnamon roll in a perfectly sized bite, then this Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. Imagine soft, tender cupcakes swirled with cinnamon-sugar goodness, topped with a crumbly streusel and finished with a luscious cream cheese glaze that makes every bite a little slice of heaven. Whether it’s for brunch, a cozy afternoon treat, or an irresistible dessert, these cupcakes deliver all the comforting flavors you love from a cinnamon roll but in a fun, convenient form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe keeps things simple yet flavorful by using common pantry staples perfectly combined to create tender cupcakes with that signature cinnamon swirl and rich glaze. Each ingredient plays a vital role in the final texture and taste, making these cupcakes both fluffy and decadently moist.

• Yellow cake mix (15.25 ounces): The base for light, fluffy cupcakes that bake up perfectly every time.
• Vanilla pudding mix (3.4 ounces, dry): Adds extra moisture and a silky texture to the cupcakes.
• Eggs (3 large, room temperature): Help bind ingredients and provide structure to the cupcakes.
• Buttermilk (1 cup): Brings a subtle tang and tender crumb to balance the sweetness.
• Vegetable oil (1/3 cup): Keeps the cupcakes moist and soft without heaviness.
• Full-fat sour cream (3/4 cup): Introduces richness and tenderness to each bite.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor with warm sweetness.
• Brown sugar (1/4 cup + 1/4 cup packed): Used in the cinnamon-sugar swirl and streusel topping for depth and caramel notes.
• Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons total): The star spice that gives these cupcakes their signature warmth.
• All-purpose flour (1/2 cup): Combined with sugar and butter for the crumbly streusel topping.
• Unsalted butter (1/4 cup softened + 1/4 cup softened): Used in the streusel and creamy glaze for richness.
• Cream cheese (1 ounce, softened): Creates a smooth, tangy glaze classic to cinnamon rolls.
• Powdered sugar (1 cup): Sweetens and thickens the glaze.
• Salt (pinch): Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• Heavy cream or milk (1–2 tablespoons): Adjusts glaze consistency for easy drizzling.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature for baking. Line two muffin tins with cupcake liners so your cupcakes bake evenly and are easy to remove once done.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Mixes

In a large mixing bowl, stir together the yellow cake mix and vanilla pudding mix. This combination is key to creating a cupcake that’s both fluffy and irresistibly moist, setting the perfect foundation.

Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, vigorously whisk the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Getting these ingredients well combined ensures a smooth batter that bakes up light and tender.

Step 4: Mix Batter

Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can make the cupcakes dense. The batter should be thick but smooth and ready to scoop.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl

Mix the 1/4 cup brown sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. This simple blend will be swirled into the batter to mimic the classic cinnamon roll’s signature flavor.

Step 6: Layer Batter and Swirl

Fill each cupcake liner about one-quarter full with batter. Sprinkle some cinnamon-sugar on top, then swirl lightly with a knife or toothpick. Add more batter to fill three-quarters full, sprinkle cinnamon sugar again, and swirl once more. This layered swirling delivers cinnamon goodness in every bite.

Step 7: Make the Streusel Topping

Using a food processor, pulse together flour, packed brown sugar, softened butter, and cinnamon until crumbly. This topping adds a delightful crunch and extra cinnamon flavor, giving these cupcakes the feel of a freshly baked cinnamon roll.

Step 8: Bake the Cupcakes

Sprinkle the streusel topping generously over each cupcake. Bake for 17 to 20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once done, let them cool slightly in the tin before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 9: Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze

Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, beating until luscious. Add heavy cream or milk as needed to achieve a drizzle-able glaze that’s rich and tangy – the perfect finishing touch.

Step 10: Glaze and Serve

Once cupcakes have cooled, generously drizzle the cream cheese glaze over the top. The glaze seeps into the nooks and crannies, making every bite decadently irresistible.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe

Garnishes

For an elevated presentation, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or a light dusting of powdered sugar over the glaze. You can also add chopped pecans or a light drizzle of caramel sauce for a delightful crunch or extra sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy glaze.

Side Dishes

These cupcakes are indulgent enough to stand on their own, but when paired with a cup of rich coffee, chai tea, or even warm apple cider, they become the centerpiece of any cozy breakfast or dessert spread. Fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries also provides a juicy, refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe on a tiered stand surrounded by fresh flowers for a brunch party. Or, place each cupcake in a rustic basket lined with a linen napkin for a charming picnic-style treat. Wrapping the cupcakes with a cinnamon stick tied to the liner with twine also makes for an adorable gift idea.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain their soft texture. For longer keeping, refrigeration is a good option but be sure to bring them back to room temperature or warm slightly before serving to soften the glaze and crumbs.

Freezing

You can freeze unfrosted cupcakes by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Once thawed, prepare the glaze fresh to keep that creamy, tangy topping bright and luscious.

Reheating

For the fluffiest results, warm cupcakes briefly in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. You can also pop them into a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes, which refreshes the crumb and melts the glaze slightly, making each bite taste fresh-baked.

FAQs

Can I make these cupcakes gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the yellow cake mix with your favorite gluten-free mix and ensure any additional ingredients like pudding mix are gluten-free. This way, you can still enjoy the full cinnamon roll flavor without compromise.

Is it okay to use low-fat sour cream instead of full-fat?

For the best texture and flavor, full-fat sour cream is recommended because it adds richness and moisture. Low-fat versions may yield slightly drier cupcakes, but you can try it if preferred; just keep an eye on baking time.

How can I make the cupcakes more “cinnamon roll-like”?

The key is in the swirling of the cinnamon-sugar layer and the cream cheese glaze. Make sure not to skip the cinnamon-sugar swirl steps and use a generous amount of glaze to mimic the gooey, sweet experience of a true cinnamon roll.

Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?

Yes, doubling is straightforward! Just multiply ingredients by two and bake in multiple muffin tins. Keep an eye on baking time as a fuller oven might impact the duration slightly.

What is the best way to transport these cupcakes?

Use a cupcake carrier with a secure lid to prevent the glaze from smudging. If you don’t have a carrier, a sturdy box with inserts or placing cupcakes on a tray lined with parchment paper will keep them safe during travel.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes Recipe enough to anyone who loves that perfect harmony of sweet, cinnamon-spiced comfort and tender, moist cake. It truly hits the spot whether you’re serving family, friends, or simply indulging in a cozy moment yourself. So go ahead, bake a batch, and watch these cupcakes disappear at lightning speed – they’re a beautiful little treat your taste buds will thank you for again and again!

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