Cinnamon Sugar Muffins (French Breakfast Puffs)

by

Cinnamon Sugar Muffins (French Breakfast Puffs)

đź“ť Introduction

Cinnamon Sugar Muffins are a timeless classic—light, airy, and coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar crust. These muffins are especially loved for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack with coffee or tea. They’re often compared to donuts because of their soft texture and warm spice. Simple to make, yet delightful, these muffins are a nostalgic bake that brings comfort to any table.

🥣 Ingredients

For the Muffins:

  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for warmth)
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:

  • 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

🍳 Instructions & Methods

  1. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 12-cup muffin tin.
  2. Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and mix until combined.
  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg.
  4. Combine: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Start and end with dry. Mix gently until just combined.
  5. Bake: Divide batter evenly into muffin cups (about 2/3 full). Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  6. Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon. In another bowl, have melted butter ready. While muffins are still warm, dip tops (or whole muffins) into melted butter, then roll in cinnamon-sugar.
  7. Serve Warm: Best enjoyed fresh and warm, but they keep well for 2–3 days.

đź“ś History

These muffins have their roots in American home baking, often called French Breakfast Puffs in old cookbooks from the 1950s and 1960s. They gained popularity because they were easy to make with pantry staples, didn’t require yeast, and mimicked the flavor of fried donuts without the frying.

đź’ˇ Benefits

  • Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients, no yeast needed.
  • Kid-Friendly: A perfect snack for lunchboxes.
  • Customizable: Add vanilla, cardamom, or even fill with jam or Nutella.
  • Comfort Food: Warm cinnamon evokes coziness and relaxation.

🔨 Formation

  • Can be made in mini muffin tins for bite-sized treats.
  • Bake in a loaf pan for a cinnamon-sugar loaf version.
  • Turn into filled muffins with cream cheese, chocolate, or fruit jam inside.

❤️ Lovers of This Recipe

  • Kids love the sugary coating.
  • Adults adore them with morning coffee or tea.
  • Home bakers love them because they’re nearly foolproof.

âś… Conclusion

Cinnamon Sugar Muffins are a little piece of sweet nostalgia. Soft, fluffy, and rolled in warm cinnamon-sugar, they’re the perfect treat for anyone who loves a comforting homemade bake. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or shared with loved ones, these muffins never fail to impress.

Leave a Comment