Cinnamon Cupcakes Recipe

If you’re searching for a cozy, delicious treat that brings warmth and comfort in every bite, these Cinnamon Cupcakes are exactly what you need. Imagine soft, moist cupcakes infused with just the right amount of cinnamon spice, crowned with a dreamy swirl of vanilla and cinnamon buttercream that melts in your mouth. Cinnamon Cupcakes are the perfect companion for chilly afternoons or any time you want to bring a little joy to your dessert table. They’re easy to make yet feel so lovingly crafted, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these irresistible Cinnamon Cupcakes. Each one is simple but essential, contributing to the perfect balance of taste, moisture, and that beautiful color that will make your cupcakes shine.

• 210 g all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and tender crumb for the cupcakes.
• ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cupcakes rise to a light, fluffy texture.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Adds extra lift and even browning.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon: The star spice, giving warmth and that classic cinnamon flavor.
• 100 g granulated sugar: Sweetens while keeping the crumb light.
• 100 g dark brown sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
• 2 large eggs, room temperature: Bind everything together and add richness.
• 240 g sour cream, room temperature: Keeps the cupcakes incredibly moist and tender.
• 75 g vegetable oil (like canola): Ensures softness and a beautifully tender crumb.
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Lifts the flavors and adds sweetness.
• 200 g butter, room temperature: For the luscious buttercream frosting.
• 330 g powdered sugar: Sweetens and helps create a smooth, fluffy frosting.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting): Gives the buttercream that irresistible vanilla aroma.
• 1 tablespoon whole milk, room temperature: Adds the perfect consistency to the buttercream.
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon (for frosting): Adds a warm spice twist to the creamy vanilla buttercream.

How to Make Cinnamon Cupcakes

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 160ºC (320ºF) if using a conventional oven. Line a 12-cup muffin pan with cupcake liners—it’s such a simple step but makes cleanup and serving so much easier. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to make sure everything is light and evenly mixed. Then whisk in the granulated and dark brown sugars to blend that lovely, caramel-sweet touch.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sour cream, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until they’re nicely combined and smooth. The sour cream is going to give these Cinnamon Cupcakes a wonderful moist texture you’ll notice with the first bite.

Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and gently fold them together using a spatula or spoon. The batter may seem thick at first, but keep mixing until no dry flour remains, being careful not to overmix. This step is key to getting that tender crumb we love in Cinnamon Cupcakes.

Step 4: Bake Until Perfect

Divide the batter evenly among the liners and place the pan in the oven. Bake for about 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, let the cupcakes cool in the pan for 5 minutes before removing them to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling time helps maintain their softness and prevents sogginess.

Step 5: Prepare the Cinnamon Vanilla Buttercream

Once your cupcakes are fully cooled, it’s time to prepare the irresistible frosting. Start by creaming the softened butter in your stand mixer on high speed for about 4 minutes until fluffy and pale. Then, add the powdered sugar in three portions along with the vanilla extract and milk, mixing well after each addition. Next, divide the buttercream into two bowls. Leave one plain and mix cinnamon into the other. Piping both together creates a lovely swirled effect that tastes just as beautiful as it looks.

Step 6: Frost the Cupcakes

Fill two separate piping bags with both the vanilla and cinnamon buttercream, then place them together inside a third piping bag fitted with a large round tip. Pipe generous swirls on top of each cupcake. The marbled look combined with that heavenly flavor makes these Cinnamon Cupcakes impossible to resist.

How to Serve Cinnamon Cupcakes

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, dust your Cinnamon Cupcakes lightly with ground cinnamon or a sprinkle of powdered sugar right before serving. A few chopped toasted pecans or a tiny cinnamon stick tucked in the frosting can add extra flair and a bit of crunch that complements the softness perfectly.

Side Dishes

Cinnamon Cupcakes pair beautifully with warm beverages like spiced chai tea, pumpkin latte, or even a classic cup of black coffee. For a more indulgent experience, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce to elevate the dessert to the next level.

Creative Ways to Present

Try creating a cupcake tower for parties or gatherings; the cinnamon vanilla buttercream piping makes them visually stunning when stacked. Another fun idea is to serve mini Cinnamon Cupcakes in decorative paper cups inside mason jars—perfect for gifting or a charming picnic treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Cinnamon Cupcakes, keep them fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Beyond that, refrigerate them to maintain freshness, but allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying to restore their tender crumb and creamy frosting texture.

Freezing

You can freeze both the cupcakes and the buttercream separately. For the cupcakes, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Freeze the frosting in an airtight container as well. When ready to enjoy, let thaw in the fridge overnight, then re-whip the frosting if needed.

Reheating

To bring your cupcakes back to their soft, fresh-from-the-oven warmth, warm them gently in the microwave for about 10 seconds. Avoid overheating, as this can melt the buttercream. This quick heat-up makes them taste freshly baked and perfect for that comforting cinnamon experience.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour for Cinnamon Cupcakes?

All-purpose flour is best for achieving the light and tender texture characteristic of these cupcakes. Using whole wheat or gluten-free flours may alter the crumb and moisture, but you can experiment with blends designed for baking if needed.

Is sour cream necessary for the recipe?

Sour cream is key to keeping the cupcakes moist and tender. If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or buttermilk, but the result might be slightly different in texture.

Can I make the frosting without a stand mixer?

Absolutely! While a stand mixer makes the process easier and the frosting lighter, you can use a hand mixer or whisk vigorously by hand. Just ensure the butter is very soft and take your time to incorporate the powdered sugar gradually.

How long do Cinnamon Cupcakes stay fresh?

Freshly baked Cinnamon Cupcakes are best enjoyed within 2-3 days when stored at room temperature in an airtight container. They can last longer in the fridge but may slightly dry out, so warming before serving helps restore softness.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the batter?

Yes, chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts add a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs fabulously with cinnamon. Just fold them into the batter gently before baking, keeping the amount to about ½ cup to avoid weighing down the cupcakes.

Final Thoughts

These Cinnamon Cupcakes are a delightful way to bring warmth, comfort, and smiles to your kitchen and your loved ones. With their soft crumb and luscious cinnamon vanilla buttercream, they’re truly a treat worth making again and again. Whether you’re cozying up on a crisp fall day or celebrating a special moment, give these cupcakes a try—you won’t regret it!