There are some recipes that instantly make a house feel like home, and these Easy Cinnamon Sugar Holiday Muffins are exactly that kind of bake. Warm, fragrant, and coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar crust, they taste like cozy mornings, festive gatherings, and quiet moments with a hot cup of coffee.
Perfect for holiday breakfasts, winter brunches, or anytime you crave comforting homemade muffins, this recipe comes together quickly with simple pantry staples. Each bite delivers soft, fluffy crumb inside and a buttery, spiced topping outside that truly feels like a warm hug.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare with everyday ingredients
- Soft, fluffy muffins with a nostalgic cinnamon sugar flavor
- Perfect for holidays, weekends, or cozy mornings
- Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing
- No mixer required, just bowls and a whisk
Ingredients
For the Muffins
- All-purpose flour – Creates a tender, bakery-style texture
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the muffins without overpowering the cinnamon
- Baking powder – Helps the muffins rise tall and fluffy
- Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness
- Ground cinnamon – The signature spice that brings warmth and aroma
- Whole milk – Adds richness and moisture to the batter
- Vegetable oil – Keeps the muffins soft and moist (can be replaced with melted butter)
- Large egg – Binds ingredients and provides structure
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- Granulated sugar – Forms the sweet, crunchy coating
- Ground cinnamon – Adds bold spice and holiday flavor
- Melted butter – Helps the cinnamon sugar adhere beautifully
How to Make Easy Cinnamon Sugar Holiday Muffins
Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each well.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined. This ensures consistent flavor and rise throughout the muffins.
Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, vegetable oil, and egg until smooth and fully blended.
Bring the Batter Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the muffins dense instead of light and fluffy.
Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
Brush or dip the tops of each muffin with melted butter. In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon, then roll or sprinkle the buttered tops generously with the mixture.
Bake
Bake at 375°F for 18–20 minutes, or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool Slightly
Let the muffins rest in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool slightly. They’re best enjoyed warm.
Tips for Success
- Do not overmix the batter to keep muffins soft and tender
- Whole milk gives the best flavor, but any milk will work
- Add a pinch of sea salt to the topping for a sweet-salty twist
- Serve warm for the best cinnamon aroma and texture
Equipment Needed
- Muffin tin
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pastry brush (optional for butter)
Recipe Variations
- Apple Cinnamon Muffins – Fold in small diced apples for extra texture
- Maple Cinnamon Muffins – Replace some sugar with maple syrup
- Nutty Cinnamon Muffins – Add chopped walnuts or pecans
- Healthier Version – Reduce sugar slightly or use half whole wheat flour
Serving Suggestions
Serve these muffins warm with butter or honey for breakfast. Pair them with coffee, hot chocolate, or chai tea for a cozy holiday treat. They’re also perfect for brunch spreads, gift baskets, or festive gatherings.
FAQs
Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Yes, they store well at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Can I freeze cinnamon sugar muffins?
Absolutely. Freeze cooled muffins for up to 2 months. Reheat gently before serving.
Can I use butter instead of oil?
Yes, melted unsalted butter works beautifully and adds richer flavor.
Why are my muffins dry?
Overbaking or overmixing can cause dryness. Bake just until done and mix gently.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based milk and dairy-free butter alternatives.
Easy Cinnamon Sugar Holiday Muffins That Feel Like a Warm Hug
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these Cinnamon Sugar Holiday Muffins that offer a warm hug of comfort and festive cheer.
Ingredients
- For the Muffins
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or melted unsalted butter)
- 1 large egg
- For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease wells.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, whisk milk, vegetable oil, and egg until smooth.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir gently just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Fill muffin cups evenly with batter.
- Brush or dip each muffin top with melted butter.
- Mix sugar and cinnamon, then coat each buttered muffin top.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden brown.
- Let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Notes
- Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for a sweet-salty twist.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep muffins tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: American
Final Thoughts
These Easy Cinnamon Sugar Holiday Muffins are everything comforting baking should be: simple, warm, and filled with cozy flavor. Whether you’re baking for loved ones or enjoying a quiet morning at home, this recipe brings festive cheer with minimal effort.
Give them a try and share the warmth — your kitchen will smell amazing, and your muffins will disappear fast.
