Cinnamon Roll Muffins: 5 Reasons to Love This Delightful Treat

Name: Cinnamon Roll Muffins: 5 Reasons to Love This Delightful Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup gluten-free flour; 1/2 cup almond milk (or dairy-free milk); 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted; 1/2 cup coconut sugar; 2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1/4 tsp salt; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional); 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon

By:

Christina R. Jones

May 31, 2025

Cinnamon Roll Muffins {Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free Option}

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There’s just something magical about the aroma of freshly baked cinnamon roll muffins wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? The sweet, cozy scent of cinnamon and sugar wraps around you like a warm hug, and trust me, it’s hard to resist the temptation to sneak a bite before they even cool down! These Cinnamon Roll Muffins are not only a delightful twist on the classic treat, but they also come with a gluten-free option, which means everyone can indulge without worry.

Cinnamon Roll Muffins {Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free Option} - detail 1

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it combines the flavors I love most with the ease of a muffin. I remember whipping these up on lazy Sunday mornings, my kids giggling as they fought over who got to sprinkle the cinnamon filling. It’s such a joy to see their faces light up when they take that first bite, and I know you’ll feel the same when you try them! They’re fluffy, packed with flavor, and perfect for breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack. Let’s dive into making the best cinnamon roll muffins you’ll ever taste!

Ingredients List

Gather these simple yet delicious ingredients to whip up the most delightful Cinnamon Roll Muffins:

1 cup gluten-free flour (make sure it’s a blend that works well for baking)
1/2 cup almond milk (or any dairy-free milk of your choice)
1/4 cup coconut oil, melted (this adds a lovely richness)
1/2 cup coconut sugar (for that perfect touch of sweetness)
2 teaspoons baking powder (this will help our muffins rise beautifully)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (the star of the show!)
1/4 teaspoon salt (don’t skip this; it balances the sweetness)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for a hint of warmth)
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional; walnuts or pecans work wonderfully)
1/4 cup packed brown sugar (for the cinnamon filling)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for the cinnamon filling; yes, more cinnamon!)

Make sure to measure everything accurately for the best results. Happy baking!

How to Prepare Cinnamon Roll Muffins

Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it helps your muffins rise perfectly and bake evenly. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than pulling out muffins that are raw in the middle because the oven wasn’t hot enough!

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, grab your gluten-free flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk them together until they’re well combined. This step is crucial because it ensures that the baking powder and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour, leading to a beautifully fluffy muffin. Plus, it’s a great arm workout!

Combine Wet Ingredients

Next up, in another bowl, mix together your almond milk, melted coconut oil, coconut sugar, and vanilla extract. Give it a good stir until everything is combined and the sugar starts to dissolve a bit. You want those sweet flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a delicious base for your muffins!

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, it’s time to bring the dry and wet ingredients together. Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients and gently mix until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix! A few lumps are totally okay. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins, and we definitely want them light and fluffy!

Prepare Cinnamon Filling

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and that extra teaspoon of cinnamon. This filling is what elevates your muffins to a whole new level of deliciousness! The warm, sweet aroma will have your mouth watering in anticipation.

Fill Muffin Liners

Now, grab your muffin liners and fill them halfway with the batter. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of that cinnamon filling right in the center. Finally, top each muffin with more batter until the liners are about three-quarters full. This layering is what makes each muffin a delightful surprise!

Bake the Muffins

Pop those beauties in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you’ll know they’re ready when they turn a lovely golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell will be absolutely heavenly, so get ready!

Cool and Serve

Once they’re out of the oven, let your muffins cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps them set and avoids sogginess. I know it’s hard, but let them cool a bit before diving in. You want to savor that warm, gooey goodness without burning your mouth!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, these muffins come together in a snap, making them perfect for busy mornings!
Gluten-Free Option: Everyone can enjoy these Cinnamon Roll Muffins, thanks to the gluten-free flour that provides a delightful texture.
Dairy-Free Option: Using almond milk or any dairy-free milk ensures that those with dietary restrictions can indulge without worry.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of warm cinnamon, sweet coconut sugar, and rich coconut oil creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon snack, these muffins are sure to bring smiles to your table.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional data for one of these delightful Cinnamon Roll Muffins. This is a rough estimate, so keep in mind that actual values may vary depending on specific brands and ingredients used:

Calories: 180
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 150mg
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 8g
Protein: 3g

These muffins are a fantastic way to start your day with a sweet treat that won’t break the calorie bank. Enjoy them guilt-free!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Cinnamon Roll Muffins turn out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips to keep in mind:

Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale if you have one! It’s the best way to get precise measurements, especially for gluten-free flour, which can be tricky.
Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground cinnamon makes a world of difference in flavor. If your spices have been sitting in the pantry for a while, it might be time for a little refresh!
Don’t Overmix: Remember, a few lumps in the batter are okay! Overmixing can lead to dense muffins, and we want them light and fluffy.
Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also freeze them for later—just pop them in the microwave for a quick reheat!

With these tips, you’ll be a cinnamon roll muffin pro in no time! Happy baking!

FAQ Section

Here are some common questions I get about these Cinnamon Roll Muffins and their ingredients. I hope this helps you on your baking journey!

Can I make these muffins without gluten-free flour?

If you don’t need a gluten-free option, you can absolutely use regular all-purpose flour! Just swap it in at a 1:1 ratio. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, but they’ll still be delicious!

How can I make these muffins nut-free?

No problem! Simply omit the chopped nuts from the recipe. You can also add a little extra gluten-free flour to maintain the texture, or swap in seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for a little crunch!

Can I use a different type of milk?

Definitely! While I love almond milk for its flavor, you can use any dairy-free milk like oat or soy milk. Just choose one that fits your dietary needs, and you’ll still get those tasty muffins!

Is there a way to make these muffins sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter muffin, feel free to add an extra tablespoon or two of coconut sugar to the batter. You could also drizzle a simple glaze on top after they cool for an extra sweet touch!

How long do these muffins stay fresh?

These Cinnamon Roll Muffins are best enjoyed within three days at room temperature in an airtight container. If you want them to last longer, pop them in the freezer and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

To keep your delicious Cinnamon Roll Muffins fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delightful for up to three days, but I doubt they’ll last that long once everyone gets a taste!

If you want to enjoy them later, these muffins freeze beautifully. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can last for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply take one out and reheat it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. If you prefer a crispier texture, you can also pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This way, they’ll be warm, fluffy, and just as good as the day they were baked!