If you’re looking for a quick, cozy baked treat, Cinnamon Sugar Mini Muffins – Simple & Fresh are exactly what you need. These bite-sized muffins are soft, lightly sweet, and coated in a buttery cinnamon sugar finish that tastes just like a classic cinnamon donut—only easier and faster to make.
Perfect for busy mornings, after-school snacks, brunch spreads, or casual entertaining, these mini muffins use simple pantry ingredients and come together in under 30 minutes. No mixer required, no fancy techniques, and no stress—just warm, comforting flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Sugar Mini Muffins Recipe
There’s a lot to love about these cinnamon sugar mini muffins, especially if you enjoy recipes that are both comforting and practical.
First, they’re quick and easy. From start to finish, you can have a batch ready in about 25 minutes, making them ideal for last-minute baking. Second, the ingredient list is short and affordable, relying on everyday staples you likely already have.
The mini size makes them perfectly portioned, especially for kids or snack trays, and the buttery cinnamon sugar coating adds an irresistible finish that makes them feel special without extra effort. Best of all, they’re incredibly versatile—you can enjoy them warm, at room temperature, or even freeze them for later.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Mini Muffins
Muffin Batter Ingredients
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Baking powder
- Ground cinnamon
- Salt
- Milk
- Large egg
- Melted butter (or neutral oil)
- Vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- Melted butter
- Granulated sugar
- Ground cinnamon
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Butter: Melted butter adds richness, but neutral oil (like vegetable or canola) works well if needed.
- Milk: Any milk works here, including almond milk, oat milk, or lactose-free milk.
- Sugar: Regular white sugar gives the classic flavor, but you can use half white and half brown sugar for a deeper taste.
- Cinnamon: Fresh cinnamon makes a noticeable difference, so replace older spice if possible.
This recipe is naturally alcohol-free and pork-free, making it family-friendly and suitable for a wide range of diets.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin pan or line it with mini paper liners. Set aside.
Step 2 – Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.
Step 3 – Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4 – Make the Batter
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—the batter should look slightly lumpy.
Step 5 – Fill the Muffin Pan
Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin pan, filling each cup about ¾ full.
Step 6 – Bake
Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the tops are set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7 – Add the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the muffins are still warm, brush each one with melted butter. Roll or dip them into the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
Pro Tips for Success
- Do not overmix the batter. Overmixing leads to dense muffins.
- Coat while warm. The cinnamon sugar sticks best when muffins are fresh from the oven.
- Use a small cookie scoop for evenly sized muffins.
- Let excess butter drip off before coating to avoid soggy muffins.
- Serve warm for best flavor, especially when baking for guests.
Flavor Variations
- Apple Cinnamon: Add finely diced apple to the batter.
- Pumpkin Spice: Replace cinnamon with pumpkin spice blend.
- Vanilla Glaze Finish: Skip cinnamon sugar and drizzle with a light glaze.
- Chocolate Chip: Add mini chocolate chips for a kid-friendly twist.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle finely chopped walnuts into the coating.
Serving Suggestions
Cinnamon sugar mini muffins are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm with coffee or tea for breakfast, add them to brunch spreads, or pack them into lunchboxes as a sweet surprise. They also work beautifully on dessert trays alongside fruit and yogurt.
For parties or holidays, stack them on a cake stand or arrange them in mini cupcake liners for a polished look.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Freeze uncoated muffins for up to 2 months. Thaw and coat before serving for best texture.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Approximate Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 95 |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 80 mg |
Values are estimates and will vary based on ingredients used.
FAQ About Cinnamon Sugar Mini Muffins
Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the muffins a day ahead. Store them uncoated and add the butter and cinnamon sugar just before serving for the freshest taste.
Why are my muffins dense?
Dense muffins are usually caused by overmixing the batter or using expired baking powder. Mix gently and check your leavening agents.
Can I use a regular muffin pan instead?
Yes, but baking time will increase to about 18–22 minutes. Keep an eye on them and test for doneness.
Are these muffins good for kids?
Absolutely. Their mini size and mild sweetness make them perfect for children, and they’re easy to pack for snacks or school events.
Can I reduce the sugar?
You can slightly reduce the sugar in the batter, but the cinnamon sugar coating is essential for the classic flavor.
Cinnamon Sugar Mini Muffins – Simple & Fresh
Equipment
- mini muffin pan
- mixing bowls
- whisk
- spoon or cookie scoop
- pastry brush
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup butter, melted (or neutral oil)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 tbsp butter, melted (for coating)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin pan or line with mini paper liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and gently stir just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Spoon the batter into the muffin pan, filling each cup about three-quarters full.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the tops are set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- While muffins are warm, brush with melted butter and roll in cinnamon sugar until evenly coated.
Notes
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
Cinnamon Sugar Mini Muffins—Simple & Fresh are the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again. They’re easy, comforting, and made with ingredients you already trust. Whether you’re baking for family, guests, or just yourself, these little muffins deliver big flavor with minimal effort.
Once you try them, they’re sure to become a regular part of your baking routine.
