Cinnamon Roll Cupcake Recipe
Cinnamon roll cupcakes are a delightful fusion of two beloved treats: cinnamon rolls and cupcakes. This Cinnamon Roll Cupcake Recipe brings you a moist sour cream cake batter swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for brunch, bake sales, or any festive gathering, these cupcakes are sure to impress with their unique flavor and presentation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and cream cheese frosting creates a rich, comforting taste that appeals to everyone.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is suitable for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a simple family dessert, these cupcakes fit right in.
- Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the batter in advance and bake them just before serving for that fresh-baked aroma.
- Versatile Topping: Feel free to experiment with toppings like nuts or caramel drizzle to customize your cupcakes.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools and ingredients. Having everything ready will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Muffin tin
- Cupcake liners
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without spills.
- Muffin tin: Provides the perfect shape for each cupcake, ensuring they bake evenly.

Ingredients
For the Cupcakes
- 1/4 cup oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (room temp)
- 3/4 cup sugar (100g)
- 1 large egg (room temp)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cup cake flour (sifted, 115g)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup sour cream (room temp)
- 1/4 cup milk
For the Cinnamon Swirl
- 6 tbsp brown sugar
- 5 tsp cinnamon
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1 8oz cream cheese package
- 2 sticks butter (8oz)
- 2 cups confectioners sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
How to Make Cinnamon Roll Cupcake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your muffin tin with cupcake liners to get ready for pouring in the batter.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the following:
1. Whisk together the oil, unsalted butter, sugar, and egg until smooth.
2. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. In another bowl, mix together cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture while alternating with sour cream and milk until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Create the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture
In a small bowl:
1. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon thoroughly.
2. Set aside for later use as a swirl component.
Step 4: Assemble the Cupcakes
- Fill each cupcake liner halfway with batter.
- Sprinkle about a teaspoon of the cinnamon mixture on top of each filled liner.
- Add another scoop of batter over the cinnamon layer until almost full.
Step 5: Bake
Place in preheated oven and bake for about 16 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 6: Make the Frosting
While cooling:
1. Beat cream cheese and butter together until creamy.
2. Gradually add confectioners sugar while mixing continuously.
3. Stir in vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 7: Frost Your Cupcakes
Once cooled completely, top each cupcake generously with cream cheese frosting using a piping bag or knife.
Enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Roll Cupcake Recipe! These cupcakes are sure to be a hit wherever you serve them!
How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Cupcake Recipe
These delightful cinnamon roll cupcakes are perfect for any occasion, from brunch to a casual gathering. Their sweet and spicy flavor pairs well with various accompaniments.
Pair with Coffee
- A hot cup of coffee enhances the sweetness of the cupcakes, making for a delightful morning treat.
Offer with Fresh Fruit
- Fresh berries or sliced bananas add a refreshing touch that balances the rich flavors of the cupcakes.
Top with Whipped Cream
- A dollop of whipped cream can elevate your cupcake experience, adding an airy texture that complements the cream cheese frosting.
Serve with Ice Cream
- Pairing these cupcakes with vanilla or cinnamon ice cream creates a fun dessert combo that’s sure to impress.
Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
- A light drizzle of warm caramel sauce over each cupcake adds an extra layer of decadence without overwhelming the flavors.
How to Perfect Cinnamon Roll Cupcake Recipe
To ensure your cinnamon roll cupcakes turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Use room temperature ingredients: Allow eggs, butter, and sour cream to sit at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter and ensures even baking.
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Sift your flour: Sifting cake flour removes lumps and aerates it, resulting in a lighter cupcake texture.
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Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined to avoid dense cupcakes. Overmixing activates gluten, making them tough.
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Measure ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, especially for flour and sugar, to achieve consistent results.
Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Roll Cupcake Recipe
These cinnamon roll cupcakes can be complemented by various side dishes, enhancing your dessert spread seamlessly.
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Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the cupcakes.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses provides savory options that pair well with sweet treats.
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Mini Quiches: These savory bites can serve as a hearty counterpart to the sweetness of the cupcakes.
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Savory Muffins: Options like cheddar or spinach muffins offer a savory alternative that complements dessert.
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Chia Seed Pudding: A light and nutritious pudding brings texture variety and is easy to prepare in advance.
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Granola Bars: Homemade or store-bought bars provide an easy grab-and-go snack alongside your cupcakes.
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Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty-sweet flavor combination works beautifully as a crunchy side dish option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the cinnamon roll cupcake recipe, avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.
- Skipping room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or butter can lead to uneven mixing. Always bring your ingredients to room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Not measuring flour correctly: Scooping flour directly from the container can pack it down, leading to dry cupcakes. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
- Overmixing the batter: This can make your cupcakes tough rather than fluffy. Mix until just combined to keep them light and airy.
- Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different, so start checking for doneness a few minutes early. Use a toothpick to test; if it comes out clean, they’re ready!
- Neglecting frosting techniques: Applying frosting too early can melt it. Let the cupcakes cool completely before frosting for the best texture and appearance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- They will last up to 5 days without losing flavor.
Freezing Cinnamon Roll Cupcake Recipe
- Place cupcakes in a freezer-safe container or wrap individually in plastic wrap.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating Cinnamon Roll Cupcake Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat cupcakes for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat one cupcake at a time for 10-15 seconds on low power. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry them out.
- Stovetop: Place in a covered skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, ensuring they do not burn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the cinnamon roll cupcake recipe.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of cake flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. The cupcakes might be denser.
How do I make these cinnamon roll cupcakes gluten-free?
You can use a gluten-free cake flour blend. Ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
What is the best way to store leftovers of cinnamon roll cupcakes?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to five days.
Can I freeze cinnamon roll cupcakes?
Absolutely! They can be frozen for up to three months. Just remember to thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.
How do I customize my cinnamon roll cupcake recipe?
You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or swap different spices like nutmeg for unique flavors!
Final Thoughts
These cinnamon roll cupcakes are delightful treats that combine two beloved desserts into one! Their moist texture and rich cream cheese frosting make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with your favorite additions or toppings and enjoy sharing these delicious bites with friends and family!
Cinnamon Roll Cupcake Recipe
Cinnamon roll cupcakes are a delightful blend of two beloved treats that will impress your guests at any gathering. With a moist sour cream cake base swirled with sweet cinnamon sugar and topped with creamy frosting, these cupcakes deliver an irresistible flavor experience. Perfect for brunch, dessert tables, or simply as a treat to enjoy at home, this recipe is easy to follow and adaptable for various occasions. The combination of warm spices and rich cream cheese frosting makes these cupcakes not just delicious but also visually appealing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 36 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups cake flour (sifted)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup sour cream (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup milk
- 6 tbsp brown sugar (for the cinnamon swirl)
- 5 tsp cinnamon (for the cinnamon swirl)
- 8 oz cream cheese (for frosting)
- 8 oz butter (for frosting)
- 2 cups confectioners sugar (for frosting)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together oil, butter, sugar, and egg until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while alternating with sour cream and milk.
- For the cinnamon swirl: Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Fill each cupcake liner halfway with batter, sprinkle with cinnamon mixture, then top with more batter until nearly full.
- Bake for about 16 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until creamy; gradually add confectioners sugar and stir in vanilla extract.
- Once cooled completely, frost the cupcakes generously.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 325
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
