Introduction to Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
Cinnamon roll cupcakes are simply the ultimate fusion of two beloved treats that bring joy and warmth to any gathering. Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy cupcake that tastes just like a freshly baked cinnamon roll, complete with swirls of cinnamon sugar and a luscious glaze. What’s not to love about that?
Why Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes are the Ultimate Comfort Food?
Love for cinnamon rolls often runs deep, evoking memories of childhood breakfasts or cozy weekends. By transforming these traditional pastries into cupcakes, you get all that nostalgic flavor but in a fun, easy-to-share format. Plus, they hold the ability to elevate an ordinary day into an extraordinary one, making them perfect for celebrations or simply indulging yourself.
Not to forget, these delightful cupcakes are an excellent conversation starter at gatherings! With a decadent cinnamon cream cheese frosting on top and a mini cinnamon roll perched gloriously above, they are not just a treat; they are an experience. So whether you're hosting a brunch or looking to impress friends with your baking prowess, cinnamon roll cupcakes deliver on both flavor and creativity.
For some inspiration on creative baking recipes, check out the King Arthur Baking Company or Food Network. Get ready to sprinkle joy everywhere!

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
Creating delightful cinnamon roll cupcakes is all about having the right ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to make these sweet treats truly shine!
Essential Ingredients for the Cupcakes
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (160 grams, 5.65 oz)
- 1 ¼ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon table salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup canola oil (112 grams, 3.9 oz)
- ¾ cup sugar (150 grams, 5.29 oz)
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream (121 grams, 4.3 oz)
These ingredients create a moist and tender base that perfectly resembles the flavors of traditional cinnamon rolls.
Ingredients for the Cinnamon Swirl
- ½ tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon white sugar
This swirl mixture adds an irresistible flavor and beautiful marbling to your cupcakes.
Components of the Cinnamon Rolls
- ½ cup warm water (90-100°F, 117 grams, 4 oz)
- 2 ¼ teaspoon instant yeast (7 grams, 0.24 oz)
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- ½ tablespoon olive oil
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (191 grams, 6.75 oz)
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
By making mini cinnamon rolls, you elevate the cupcake experience and add a delightful surprise to each bite.
Glaze Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted, 127 grams, 4.5 oz)
- 2 tablespoon milk
This creamy glaze is the perfect finishing touch, making your cinnamon roll cupcakes look as good as they taste.
Remember, having all your ingredients prepped and ready makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable. Dive deeper into the baking adventure with tips on techniques and other recommended recipes!
Step-by-step Preparation of Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
Creating delicious cinnamon roll cupcakes is a rewarding adventure, perfect for enthusiasts of both baking and indulgence. Let’s take this journey together through the preparation process!
Preheat the oven and set up your workspace
Begin by preheating your oven to 350ºF. While it warms up, clear a dedicated workspace and gather all your ingredients. Having everything at hand not only saves time but also makes your baking experience a lot smoother—and who doesn't enjoy a less chaotic kitchen?
Prepare the cinnamon swirl and cupcake batter
Next, you’ll need to whip up the cinnamon swirl and batter. In a medium bowl, sift together 1 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ¼ teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of table salt, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Set this aside.
In another bowl, whisk 2 large eggs for about a minute until they’re light and frothy. Gradually stir in ½ cup of canola oil and ¾ cup of sugar, followed by 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and ½ cup of sour cream. The secret to fluffy cupcakes? Avoid overmixing when you combine the wet and dry ingredients—this will keep them tender!
For the cinnamon swirl, mix ½ tablespoon of ground cinnamon with 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of white sugar. You’re one step closer to cupcake bliss!
Assemble the cupcakes with the swirl
Start layering! Pour about 1 tablespoon of batter into each cupcake liner, sprinkle with ¼ teaspoon of the cinnamon swirl mixture, and top with another tablespoon of batter. Repeat this process and gently swirl using a toothpick for that signature cinnamon swirl effect. A little sprinkle of the cinnamon swirl mixture on top adds a delightful finish.
Bake your cinnamon roll cupcakes
Place the assembled cupcakes in the oven and bake for around 15 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, you’re good to go! Allow them to cool before frosting.
Prepare the cinnamon rolls and let them rise
While the cupcakes are baking, let’s tackle the cinnamon rolls! Combine ½ cup of warm water (about 90-100°F), 2 ¼ teaspoons of instant yeast, 1 tablespoon of honey, and ½ tablespoon of olive oil in a large bowl. Add 1 ½ cups of flour and ½ teaspoon of sea salt, mixing until a dough forms. Knead for 4-6 minutes until smooth. Cover and let it rise for about 1 hour—this is the time to let your kitchen fill with that irresistible aroma!
Bake the cinnamon rolls to perfection
After the dough has doubled, roll it out, spread the cinnamon filling, and cut into small rolls. Allow these to rise again for 30 minutes, then bake for about 10 minutes until gently golden brown. The key is not to overbake—soft rolls are a delight!
Mix the glaze for your cupcakes
Time for a sweet touch! Mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk to create a smooth glaze. The consistency is crucial—add more sugar if it’s too thin and a splash more milk if it’s too thick to ensure it drizzles beautifully.
Assemble and frost the finished cupcakes
Finally, frost each cupcake with your favorite Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting. Top it off with a mini cinnamon roll and drizzle the glaze over the top for that picture-perfect finish. Store your creations in the fridge until serving time—trust me, the frosting and glaze will set perfectly!
With these steps, you’ll not only create mouthwatering cinnamon roll cupcakes but also impress your friends at your next gathering. Happy baking!

Variations on Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
Add-ins for Extra Flavor
Want to customize your cinnamon roll cupcakes? Consider mixing in ingredients like chopped nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips for a delightful twist. A spoonful of apple pie filling or pumpkin puree can also add unique flavors. Feeling adventurous? A hint of espresso powder can elevate the cupcakes with a sophisticated touch. The possibilities are endless!
Gluten-Free or Vegan Options
For those with dietary restrictions, creating cinnamon roll cupcakes is doable! Substitute standard flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum, which mimics the structure of traditional flour. To make them vegan, use flax eggs in place of regular eggs, and swap sour cream with almond yogurt. Using plant-based oils will keep the cupcakes moist and delicious. For additional guidance, check out Nutrition.gov for substitutions and tips!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
Common pitfalls to avoid
When baking cinnamon roll cupcakes, it's easy to stumble into a few common mistakes. Be careful not to overmix your batter—mix until just combined to keep them light and fluffy. Also, don't skip the toothpick test; underbaked cupcakes can lead to disappointment. Lastly, resist the urge to frost them while still warm; letting them cool completely helps the frosting set beautifully.
Storing techniques for freshness
To keep your cinnamon roll cupcakes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. However, for the best taste and texture, enjoy them within the first couple of days. If you have leftover cinnamon rolls, freeze them after rising—simply let them thaw in the fridge overnight before baking. For more tips on storing baked goods, check out this helpful article from Bon Appétit.

Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
Best occasions for serving
Cinnamon roll cupcakes are perfect for a variety of occasions! Serve them at brunch with friends, as a delightful treat for a cozy family gathering, or during holiday celebrations. Their sweet, cinnamon aroma will fill your home and make every moment feel special. Don’t forget to bake a batch for birthday parties or even just an ordinary weekday to turn it into an extraordinary one!
Pairing ideas with beverages
These cupcakes pair wonderfully with a range of beverages. Enjoy them alongside a steaming cup of coffee for a delightful morning kick-start, or sip on some hot chocolate for a cozy evening treat. For a refreshing option, try serving them with a fruity iced tea or a creamy chai latte. Each sip complements the cinnamon roll cupcakes beautifully, making for a complete sensory experience!
Time Breakdown for Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
Preparation time
Get ready to immerse yourself in sweetness! The preparation for these delightful cinnamon roll cupcakes will take approximately 20 minutes. You’ll be whisking, mixing, and rolling your way to a delicious treat.
Baking time
Once your batter is prepped, it’s time for the magic to happen in the oven. Baking these scrumptious cupcakes will take about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as they’ll be ready when they spring back to your touch!
Total time
In total, expect to spend around 35 minutes creating these beautiful cinnamon roll cupcakes. In just over half an hour, you can treat yourself and your friends to a delightful dessert that combines the best of both cupcakes and cinnamon rolls! For more fun baking tips, check out resources like The Kitchn for inspiration.
Nutritional Facts for Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
Calories per cupcake
Each cinnamon roll cupcake contains approximately 500 calories, making them an indulgent treat that's perfect for special occasions.
Key nutritional components
These delightful cupcakes are packed with:
- Fat: 25g, primarily from oils and butter,
- Carbohydrates: 65g, thanks to sugar and flour,
- Protein: 6g, provided mainly by eggs and sour cream,
The blend of ingredients offers a beautiful mix of flavors and textures, making your baking experience all the more enjoyable! For a closer look at nutritional recommendations, you can refer to resources like the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Don't forget to enjoy these treats in moderation and share with friends to spread the joy!
FAQ about Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare your cinnamon roll cupcakes a day in advance. Just bake them, allow them to cool, and store them in an airtight container at room temperature overnight. If you're using frosting, it’s best to frost them right before serving for that fresh taste!
How do I store leftovers properly?
To keep your leftover cinnamon roll cupcakes fresh, store them in the refrigerator, covered, for up to four days. For the best flavor and texture, let them sit at room temperature for a bit before indulging. You can also freeze them for up to two months—just be sure to use an airtight container.
What substitutions can I make for the ingredients?
You can customize the recipe a bit! Instead of sour cream, Greek yogurt or applesauce can work well. For a dairy-free option, almond or oat milk can replace regular milk in the glaze, and you can use coconut oil instead of butter. If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, try natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Conclusion on Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
Why you should try making these delicious treats!
Cinnamon roll cupcakes are a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts, perfect for any sweet tooth. Their moist texture and spiced flavor make them an instant crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re simple to prepare! Treat yourself and your loved ones to these charming confections that are sure to become a favorite.
If you're interested in exploring more about the culinary magic of cinnamon and its health benefits, check out Healthline's article on cinnamon. Happy baking!

Cinnamon Roll Cupcakes
Equipment
- Oven
- mixing bowls
- Mixer
- Whisk
- cupcake tin
Ingredients
Cinnamon Swirl Cupcakes
- 1.25 cups all-purpose flour 160 grams, 5.65 oz
- 1.25 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon table salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 large eggs
- 0.5 cup canola oil 112 grams, 3.9 oz
- 0.75 cup sugar 150 grams, 5.29 oz
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 cup sour cream 121 grams, 4.3 oz
Cinnamon Swirl
- 0.5 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon white sugar
Cinnamon Rolls
- 0.5 cup warm water 90-100F, 117 grams, 4 oz
- 2.25 teaspoon instant yeast 7 grams, 0.24 oz
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar
- 0.5 tablespoon olive oil
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour 191 grams, 6.75 oz
- 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt
Cinnamon Roll Filling
- 0.25 cup granulated sugar 50 grams, 1.7 oz
- 2 tablespoon brown sugar 25 grams, 0.8 oz
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter room temperature, 56 grams, 2 oz
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar sifted, 127 grams, 4.5 oz
- 2 tablespoon milk
Instructions
Cinnamon Swirl Cupcakes
- Pre-heat the oven to 350ºF.
- Sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt together. Set aside.
- Whisk the eggs with a wire whisk for about 1 minute until frothy and lightened. Add the oil and whisk until combined.
- Add the sugar and whisk for another minute. You can use a mixer or a whisk.
- Add the vanilla extract.
- Add the sour cream to the batter and whisk until combined.
- Gently add the sifted dry ingredients, whisking until just combined without overmixing.
- Make the Cinnamon Swirl: mix ½ tablespoon of ground cinnamon with 1 ½ tablespoon of brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of white sugar. Set aside.
- Pour about 1 tablespoon of the batter into each cupcake tin.
- Sprinkle with ¼ teaspoon of the Cinnamon Swirl mixture.
- Top with another tablespoon of batter.
- Sprinkle ¼ teaspoon of Cinnamon Swirl mixture over the batter.
- Top with another tablespoon of batter.
- Using a toothpick, swirl the batter to create a swirl effect.
- Top with one final ¼ teaspoon of the Cinnamon Swirl mixture.
- Bake for about 15 minutes. Test with a toothpick to check if done.
- Let the cupcakes cool before frosting.
Cinnamon Rolls
- Mix warm water, honey (or sugar), and olive oil in a large bowl.
- Add flour, yeast, and salt to the bowl and mix until combined.
- Knead the dough for 4-6 minutes with a dough hook or by hand for about 8 minutes.
- Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rest for about 1 hour.
- Once the dough has doubled in size, remove from the bowl and divide in half.
- Make the Cinnamon Filling: mix sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and butter in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Roll each half of dough into a 8×10” rectangle and spread half of the cinnamon filling on each.
- Roll tightly from the widest end and cut into small rolls, about ¾” thick.
- Place them in a baking sheet to rise about 30 minutes.
- Pre-heat oven to 350ºF while the rolls rise.
- Bake for about 10 minutes, until just starting to brown, then set aside to cool.
Glaze
- Mix powdered sugar and milk together, adjusting for consistency.
To assemble
- Frost each cupcake with the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting and place a cinnamon roll on top.
- Glaze with sugar glaze and refrigerate for a bit before serving.





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