Cinnamon Swirl Breakfast Muffins with Streusel

Name: Cinnamon Swirl Breakfast Muffins with Streusel
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 muffins
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Creative Sweet Recipe Ideas

Start your day with these delightful Cinnamon Swirl Breakfast Muffins topped with a crunchy streusel. Perfectly spiced and easy to make, they are a delicious treat for breakfast or brunch.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-13T21:09:49.198Z

These muffins are the perfect way to start any day. The warm aroma of cinnamon fills your kitchen as they bake, and each bite offers a delightful swirl of flavor topped with a sweet streusel. Great for family gatherings or a cozy breakfast at home!

        Why You'll Love These Muffins
        Warm, comforting cinnamon flavor with a sweet topping
Fluffy texture that pairs beautifully with coffee or tea
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep

      

The Perfect Breakfast Treat

There's something undeniably comforting about a fresh muffin in the morning, especially when it’s infused with warm cinnamon. These Cinnamon Swirl Breakfast Muffins are not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for your senses. The delightful aroma that fills your kitchen while they bake is enough to make anyone eager for breakfast. Pair them with your favorite coffee or tea, and you have a perfect start to your day.

What makes these muffins stand out is the delightful cinnamon swirl that runs through each bite, offering a rich contrast to the fluffy muffin base. The addition of a crunchy streusel topping elevates them further, adding texture and sweetness that complements the spiced flavor beautifully. Whether you enjoy them plain or with a dollop of butter, each muffin is sure to bring a smile.

Meal Prep Made Easy

If you're looking to streamline your mornings, these muffins are an excellent choice for meal prep. They can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to a week, making them a convenient grab-and-go breakfast option. Simply reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds, and they’ll taste like they just came out of the oven.

You can also freeze these muffins for longer storage. Just allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the oven. This makes them not only a delicious breakfast option but also a time-saver for those busy mornings.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of these Cinnamon Swirl Muffins is their versatility. While the classic recipe is delightful as is, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences. Consider adding nuts for an extra crunch or incorporating dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a sweet twist. You can also experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, to create your unique flavor profile.

Additionally, if you’re looking for a healthier version, you can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use a sugar substitute. This way, you can enjoy a guilt-free indulgence that fits your dietary needs without sacrificing taste. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

For the Muffins

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Swirl

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

For the Streusel Topping

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Mix the dry and wet ingredients separately, then combine for a smooth batter.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.

Prepare the Streusel

In a bowl, mix flour, sugar, butter, and cinnamon until crumbly. Set aside.

Make the Muffin Batter

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, mix melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.

Add the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon. Pour half of the muffin batter into the prepared muffin tin, sprinkle with half of the cinnamon mixture, and then add the remaining batter and cinnamon mixture on top.

Top with Streusel

Sprinkle the streusel topping over each muffin.

Bake

Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious muffins warm or at room temperature!

Storage Tips

To keep your Cinnamon Swirl Breakfast Muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. If you live in a humid climate, consider refrigerating them to prevent spoilage. For longer storage, placing them in the freezer is a great option. Ensure they are wrapped tightly to avoid freezer burn, and they can last for up to three months.

When ready to enjoy frozen muffins, simply remove them from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature. For a warm treat, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven at a low temperature. This way, you can always have a delicious breakfast option on hand.

Serving Suggestions

These muffins are wonderful on their own, but they can also be paired with a variety of sides. Consider serving them alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, or a smoothie for a balanced breakfast. Their sweet and spicy flavor profile complements a range of beverages, from coffee to herbal teas, making them a versatile choice for any morning.

For a little extra indulgence, drizzle some icing over the muffins once they've cooled. A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk can add a delightful sweetness that takes these muffins to another level. Whether it's a special occasion or just a treat for yourself, these muffins can be dressed up to impress.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

→ How should I store the muffins?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make these muffins gluten-free.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.