Ready to spice up your cupcake game? These cinnamon sugar swirl cupcakes are the perfect blend of sweet and spicy, guaranteed to make your taste buds dance. Let’s dive into the magic of baking these delightful treats.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a warm, inviting flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Swirling the cinnamon sugar mixture into the batter ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Using buttermilk in the batter makes the cupcakes incredibly moist and tender.
- The simple vanilla frosting complements the cinnamon sugar swirl without overpowering it.
- This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 tbsp cinnamon sugar mixture (1 tbsp cinnamon + 1 tbsp sugar)
Equipment Needed
- Muffin tin
- Cupcake liners
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wire rack
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners. This ensures your cupcakes bake evenly and don’t stick to the pan. Tip: For extra non-stick insurance, lightly spray the liners with cooking spray.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial for evenly distributing the leavening agents, ensuring your cupcakes rise perfectly. Tip: Sifting the flour can make your cupcakes even lighter.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. This incorporates air into the batter, making your cupcakes soft and airy. Add the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to dense cupcakes.
Swirl in Cinnamon Sugar
Fill each cupcake liner halfway with batter, then sprinkle a teaspoon of the cinnamon sugar mixture over each. Use a toothpick to swirl the cinnamon sugar into the batter for a marbled effect. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Tips and Tricks
For the best results, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This helps them blend together more smoothly. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1/2 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes. To achieve the perfect swirl, don’t overmix the cinnamon sugar into the batter; just a few gentle strokes will do. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Recipe Variations
- Add chopped apples to the batter for a cinnamon-apple version.
- Swap the vanilla frosting for a cream cheese frosting to complement the cinnamon flavor.
- For a chocolate twist, add cocoa powder to the batter and use a chocolate frosting.
- Top with a streusel topping before baking for added texture.
- Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar in the cinnamon mixture for a deeper flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cupcakes without buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice. Simply add 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1/2 cup of milk, let it sit for 5 minutes, and it’s ready to use. This creates a similar acidity that helps tenderize the gluten in the flour, resulting in softer cupcakes.
How do I store these cupcakes?
Store the cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’ve frosted them, they might last a bit less due to the moisture in the frosting. For longer storage, you can freeze the unfrosted cupcakes for up to 3 months.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe doubles well if you’re baking for a crowd. Just make sure to mix the batter in batches if your mixer bowl isn’t large enough to accommodate the doubled ingredients. Also, keep an eye on the baking time, as it might need a few extra minutes.
Summary
These cinnamon sugar swirl cupcakes are a delightful treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of sugar in a moist, tender cupcake. Perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.