Cinnamon Streusel Muffins with Vanilla Glaze are tender, buttery muffins topped with a crunchy cinnamon-sugar crumb and finished with a smooth vanilla drizzle. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat, these muffins deliver the comforting warmth of cinnamon in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic cinnamon flavor with a sweet, crunchy streusel topping.
Moist, bakery-style texture that stays soft for days.
Simple to prepare with common pantry ingredients.
Elegant vanilla glaze adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
Ideal for brunch spreads, lunchboxes, or make-ahead breakfasts.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the muffin batter:

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Ground cinnamon
Unsalted butter (softened)
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Milk or buttermilk
Vanilla extract

For the streusel topping:

All-purpose flour
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Unsalted butter (cold and cubed)

For the vanilla glaze:

Powdered sugar
Milk or cream
Vanilla extract

directions

Preheat oven to 180 °C (350 °F). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
In a large bowl, cream butter and both sugars until light and fluffy.
Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
In a separate bowl, mix streusel ingredients by cutting cold butter into the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon until crumbly.
Fill muffin cups about ¾ full. Sprinkle streusel evenly on top of each muffin.
Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let muffins cool for 10 minutes.
For the glaze: whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over cooled muffins.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 muffins
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Apple cinnamon muffins: Fold in ½ cup diced apples to the batter.
Nutty streusel: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping.
Maple glaze: Replace vanilla extract with maple syrup for a fall-inspired twist.
Whole wheat version: Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for extra fiber.
Mini muffins: Bake in a mini muffin tin for 10–12 minutes for bite-sized treats.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store cooled muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze unfrosted muffins for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and glaze before serving.
Reheating: Warm briefly in the microwave or toaster oven to refresh texture.

FAQs

Can I make these muffins without the glaze?

Yes, they’re delicious with or without the glaze. You can also dust with powdered sugar instead.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Yes, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different. Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola.

Why did my streusel sink into the muffins?

Ensure the butter is cold when making the streusel and don’t press it into the batter—just sprinkle it on top.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, bake the muffins a day ahead and glaze just before serving for the freshest presentation.

How do I keep the streusel crisp?

Allow muffins to cool completely before storing, and don’t cover tightly to prevent trapping steam.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free butter, milk, and a plant-based glaze alternative.

Do I need to sift the powdered sugar for the glaze?

Sifting helps avoid lumps and ensures a smooth drizzle.

Can I use yogurt instead of milk?

Yes, plain yogurt or sour cream works and adds richness to the muffins.

What type of cinnamon is best?

Ground Ceylon or Cassia cinnamon both work well—use what you have on hand.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake in two muffin tins. Adjust baking time if needed.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Streusel Muffins with Vanilla Glaze are a delightful combination of warmth, texture, and sweetness. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or grab one on the go, these muffins are a comforting classic that never fails to satisfy.