1. **Introduction**:
These **Cinnamon Sugar Muffins** are the perfect treat for any time of day. With a light, fluffy texture and a sugary, cinnamon-crusted top, they offer a delightful combination of sweetness and warmth. These muffins are perfect for breakfast or as a snack with a cup of tea or coffee. Their simplicity and delicious flavor make them an instant favorite.
2. **Ingredients**:
– 1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– ¼ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk
**For the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:**
– ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
### 3. **Instructions/Preparation**:
1. **Preheat the oven** to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until fully combined.
4. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
5. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. While the muffins are baking, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the topping.
8. Once the muffins are done, brush them with melted butter and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top while they’re still warm.
9. Let the muffins cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
### 4. **Cooking Methods**:
This recipe uses **baking** as the primary method. The batter is placed in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and baked until golden brown and fully cooked through.
### 5. **Time**:
– **Preparation Time**: 10 minutes
– **Baking Time**: 15-18 minutes
– **Cooling Time**: 10 minutes
– **Total Time**: Around 40 minutes
### 6. **Serving**:
Serve the muffins warm, with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon sugar if desired. These muffins pair wonderfully with coffee or tea and are ideal for a cozy morning or an afternoon snack.
### 7. **Nutritional Benefits**:
These muffins offer a balance of carbohydrates, fats, and sugars, providing a quick energy boost. While they are not particularly high in protein, the cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties, and using whole ingredients like butter and buttermilk gives them richness and texture. For a healthier alternative, you could reduce the sugar or use whole wheat flour.
### 8. **Conclusion**:
Cinnamon Sugar Muffins are a classic and beloved treat that are easy to make and guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you enjoy them as a breakfast option or a snack, these muffins are sure to brighten your day with their comforting flavors. Try experimenting with different flavors, like adding chocolate chips or a hint of nutmeg, for a fun twist!
Enjoy baking!