Spiced Cinnamon Sugar Cupcakes Recipe
Introduction
If you’re a fan of warm, spiced flavors, these Spiced Cinnamon Sugar Cupcakes are about to become your new favorite treat. Soft, fluffy cupcakes with a delightful cinnamon and sugar coating, they’re perfect for cozy afternoons, gatherings, or any time you crave something sweet with a hint of spice. Whether you’re baking for the holidays or just want a comforting dessert, these cupcakes are the ideal choice.
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples and a dash of cinnamon magic, these cupcakes come together in no time. The cinnamon sugar topping gives each bite a sweet, spiced crunch, while the soft cake inside provides the perfect balance. These cupcakes are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can adjust the spice level or make them dairy-free if needed. Let’s dive into how you can create this delectable treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Quick: With minimal ingredients and just a few steps, these cupcakes come together in about 30 minutes. Perfect for when you want something homemade but don’t have a lot of time.
- Warm and Comforting: The cinnamon sugar topping adds a cozy, comforting flavor that feels like a warm hug in dessert form.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to suit dietary preferences—try using almond milk instead of regular milk or adding a dash of nutmeg for extra warmth.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting a brunch, attending a gathering, or simply looking for a treat to enjoy with your coffee, these cupcakes are a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed anytime.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Flour
All-purpose flour is the base of this cupcake recipe, providing the structure and texture. It allows the cupcakes to rise and become light and fluffy. If you’re looking to make this recipe gluten-free, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, which will give you similar results. - Butter
Butter gives these cupcakes their rich, moist texture and adds a lovely flavor. Make sure the butter is softened before mixing it into the batter. If you want a dairy-free version, you can substitute with margarine or coconut oil, but the flavor may slightly change. - Sugar
Granulated sugar provides sweetness and moisture to the cupcakes. It also helps with the browning of the cupcakes during baking. You can experiment with alternatives like brown sugar or coconut sugar for a different flavor, though the texture may vary slightly. - Eggs
Eggs help bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s fluffiness. They also add moisture and help the batter rise. Be sure to use room temperature eggs for the best results, as cold eggs can affect the texture of the batter. - Cinnamon
Cinnamon is the star spice of this recipe, giving the cupcakes their warm, comforting flavor. You can increase or decrease the amount depending on how strong you want the cinnamon flavor to be. Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg for additional warmth. - Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the cupcakes and balances out the sweetness. It pairs perfectly with the cinnamon, creating a lovely aromatic base. - Baking Powder
Baking powder is the leavening agent that helps the cupcakes rise and become light and fluffy. Make sure it’s fresh for the best results—old baking powder may cause the cupcakes to be dense and flat. - Milk
Milk adds moisture to the cupcakes, helping to create a smooth batter. You can use any kind of milk—whole milk, almond milk, or oat milk—all work well in this recipe. - Salt
A pinch of salt is essential to balance out the sweetness of the cupcakes and enhance the flavors. - Cinnamon Sugar Topping
To finish off these cupcakes, you’ll need cinnamon sugar (a mixture of cinnamon and granulated sugar). This adds a sweet, spiced crunch on top, which perfectly complements the soft, fluffy cake inside.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cupcake Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with cupcake liners or grease it lightly with butter or cooking spray. - Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done with an electric hand mixer or a stand mixer. Add 2 eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. - Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the ingredients are evenly combined. - Add the Dry Ingredients to the Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1/2 cup of milk. Start and finish with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cupcakes dense. - Fill the Cupcake Liners
Divide the batter evenly among the 12 cupcake liners, filling each about two-thirds full. This helps ensure they bake evenly and rise properly. - Bake the Cupcakes
Bake the cupcakes in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time, as oven temperatures can vary. - Make the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
While the cupcakes are baking, mix 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside. - Cool the Cupcakes and Add the Topping
Once the cupcakes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. While they are still warm, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously on top of each cupcake. The heat will help the topping stick, giving the cupcakes a sweet, crunchy finish.
Tips and Variations
- Add-ins: For extra flavor, try adding mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit to the batter before baking. These additions can elevate the flavor and texture of the cupcakes.
- Frosting: If you prefer a richer cupcake, top them with cream cheese frosting, vanilla buttercream, or even whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel or chocolate ganache also pairs well with the cinnamon sugar flavor.
- Gluten-Free: To make these cupcakes gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use a 1:1 replacement for the best results.
- Vegan Option: To make this recipe vegan, swap the eggs for flax eggs and use non-dairy milk and margarine. You can also use egg replacer or applesauce as a binder.
Serving Suggestions
- Sides: These cupcakes are perfect as a standalone treat, but they also pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa. For a light, refreshing contrast, serve with a side of fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries.
- Garnishes: You can garnish the cupcakes with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even some crushed pistachios for a bit of texture and visual appeal.
- Pairing Drinks: Serve with a chai latte, hot apple cider, or a sweet wine like Moscato or Riesling for a festive touch.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Fridge: Store leftover cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you need to store them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week.
- Freezer: These cupcakes freeze well for up to 2-3 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: To reheat, microwave the cupcakes for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes.
Recipe Notes
- Can Be Prepped Ahead of Time: You can make the batter a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before baking.
- Best with Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room-temperature eggs and butter helps the batter mix better, resulting in fluffier cupcakes.
- Measure Flour Properly: When measuring flour, avoid scooping directly from the flour container. Instead, spoon the flour into the measuring cup and level it off to avoid overpacking, which can lead to dense cupcakes.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Sugar | 18 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Sodium | 80 mg |
| Cholesterol | 35 mg |
| Calcium | 20 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Recipe Card Summary
- Course: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
- Servings: 12
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare the cupcake pan.
- Cream the butter and sugar, then add eggs and vanilla.
- Mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with milk.
- Fill the cupcake liners and bake for 18-20 minutes.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar while still warm.
Notes
- Best with freshly baked cupcakes.
- Can be prepped ahead of time.
Health Benefits
- Cinnamon: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, cinnamon can help stabilize blood sugar levels and promote heart health.
- Eggs: A great source of protein and essential vitamins, eggs contribute to muscle health and improve brain function.
- Pistachios (if added): Rich in antioxidants, fiber, and healthy fats, pistachios support heart health and aid digestion.
FAQs
- Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it will result in denser cupcakes. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly. - Can I make these cupcakes dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute dairy-free butter and plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) to make them dairy-free. - Can I add frosting to these cupcakes?
Absolutely! A cinnamon cream cheese frosting or vanilla buttercream would pair wonderfully with these cupcakes. - How can I make these cupcakes spicier?
Add a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg for a spicier twist. - Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cupcakes a day or two in advance. Just store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. - How do I know when the cupcakes are done?
Test by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cupcakes are done.
Final Thoughts
Spiced Cinnamon Sugar Cupcakes are a warm, comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to impress anyone who tastes them. Whether you’re baking for a special event or just indulging in a sweet snack, these cupcakes will hit the spot. Let me know how they turn out for you in the comments below!
