Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Cupcake Batter
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with 12 paper liners to prevent sticking and make the cupcakes easy to remove after baking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 + 1/2 cups flour, 1 + 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed and helps prevent clumps in the batter.
- In another bowl, cream together 1/2 cup (115 g) butter and 3/4 cup (150 g) sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key to creating a soft and airy texture in your cupcakes. It will take about 3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
- Gradually add half of the dry mixture to the butter mixture, mixing gently. Then add 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk and mix until incorporated. Add the remaining dry ingredients and mix just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense cupcakes.
2️⃣ Make the Cinnamon Swirl Mixture
- In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon white sugar, 1 + 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon melted butter. Stir until well combined and smooth. This cinnamon swirl mixture will be used both inside and on top of the cupcakes.
3️⃣ Fill the Cupcakes & Create a Marble Effect
- Fill each cupcake liner halfway with the batter. You can use a spoon or an ice cream scoop for even portions.
- Place about half a teaspoon of the cinnamon swirl mixture in the center of each cupcake.
- Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter, creating a marbled effect. This adds beautiful cinnamon flavor throughout the cupcakes.
- Top with a little more batter to fill the cupcake liners about 75% full. This ensures they bake to the perfect height.
4️⃣ Bake the Cupcakes
- Bake the cupcakes in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a cupcake—if it comes out clean, the cupcakes are ready.
- Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack before frosting. This ensures the frosting doesn’t melt when applied to the warm cupcakes.
5️⃣ Make the Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat 1 cup (230 g) butter for about 3 minutes until fluffy. This will create a light, airy frosting.
- Gradually add 3 cups (375 g) powdered sugar, mixing well after each addition. This will create a smooth and thick frosting.
- Add 2 tablespoons milk or cream, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (if desired) to the mixture. Beat until smooth and creamy.
6️⃣ Finish with a Golden Drizzle ✨
- For an elegant touch, mix 2 tablespoons caramel sauce or honey with a pinch of edible gold dust (if using) and drizzle it over the top of each frosted cupcake. This will give your cupcakes a beautiful, sparkling finish that catches the light and adds a luxurious touch.
✨ Serving Suggestion
- Serve the cupcakes at room temperature or slightly chilled. They stay fresh for 2-3 days at room temperature, or up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
- For an extra indulgent treat, serve them with a cup of warm tea or coffee!
These Golden Swirl Cinnamon Cupcakes are the perfect combination of rich, buttery cake, cinnamon swirl, and sweet frosting, all topped with a gorgeous caramel drizzle. The fluffy texture, warm spice, and delicate golden touch make these cupcakes an irresistible treat for any occasion!
