Cinnamon Vanilla Breakfast Cups

Name: Cinnamon Vanilla Breakfast Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12 cups
Ingredients: 2 cups rolled oats; 1 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative); 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; Fresh fruit (berries or banana slices); Yogurt; Chopped nuts; Extra cinnamon or nutmeg for sprinkling

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipes

I absolutely love starting my day with these Cinnamon Vanilla Breakfast Cups! They bring together the comforting flavors of cinnamon and vanilla, creating a warm, inviting breakfast that sets a positive tone for the day. Each cup is perfectly portioned, making them ideal for busy mornings. I often prepare a batch in advance, so I can simply grab one on my way out the door. These little delights not only satisfy my sweet tooth but also provide me with a delicious and nutritious start to my morning routine.

Created by

Cressida Northwood

Last updated on 2026-01-21T20:18:34.632Z

When I first tried making these breakfast cups, I was amazed at how simple yet satisfying they were. I experimented with different spices, but it was the perfect blend of cinnamon and vanilla that truly made these cups shine. Using oats as the base gives them a hearty texture, making them not only filling but also nutritious.

One of my favorite tips is to let them cool completely before serving. This helps them set beautifully and makes them easier to remove from the muffin tin. They can also be stored in an airtight container, so you can enjoy them throughout the week!

Why You Will Love These Breakfast Cups
Warm and comforting spice blend that awakens your senses
Easy to prepare in advance for busy mornings
Versatile base that allows for customization with your favorite toppings

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of rolled oats and eggs forms a nourishing base for these breakfast cups. Oats are fantastic for providing sustained energy due to their high fiber content, and they absorb the moisture from the milk and eggs, creating a delightful texture. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, make sure to choose certified gluten-free oats.

The sweetness in these cups can be adjusted based on your preference. Honey or maple syrup not only adds sweetness but also enhances the flavor profile, complementing the vanilla and cinnamon perfectly. Remember, using different syrups can subtly change the taste; for instance, agave syrup offers a lighter sweetness that may be preferable for some.

Baking Tips for Perfect Texture

Baking these breakfast cups until they turn golden brown is key to achieving a perfect texture. Keep an eye on them around the 25-minute mark, as ovens can vary in temperature. When you notice the tops are set and slightly firm to the touch, it’s a good sign they're ready. They should not jiggle in the center. If using dark muffin tins, consider reducing the baking time slightly to avoid overcooking.

Cooling the cups for a few minutes in the tin helps them maintain their shape when transferred to a wire rack. If you find they are sticking, using a silicone muffin pan can alleviate this issue. Allowing them to cool down completely before storing is essential, as this prevents excess moisture from forming in your storage container.

Ingredients

For the Cups

2 cups rolled oats
1 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs

For Topping (Optional)

Fresh fruit (berries or banana slices)
Yogurt
Chopped nuts
Extra cinnamon or nutmeg for sprinkling

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the milk, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and eggs. Whisk until well blended.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the oats, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Stir the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until fully incorporated.

Fill and Bake

Spoon the mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Let the cups cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Serve warm with your choice of toppings.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some chopped apples or dried fruit before baking. You can also experiment with different spices like nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.

Serving Suggestions

These Cinnamon Vanilla Breakfast Cups are wonderfully versatile when it comes to toppings. For a refreshing twist, I recommend adding a dollop of Greek yogurt. The creaminess balances the spices perfectly and adds a protein boost. If you prefer a fruity kick, topping them with fresh berries or banana slices adds a natural sweetness and vibrant color.

You can also create a delightful crunch by sprinkling chopped nuts on top. Almonds or walnuts work particularly well and bring a wholesome element that contrasts beautifully with the soft texture of the cups. Drizzling a bit more honey or maple syrup on top enhances the flavor, making for a breakfast that's both satisfying and bursting with taste.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best aspects of these breakfast cups is their make-ahead convenience. You can prepare a batch at the beginning of the week and store them in an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to five days. Simply reheat them in the microwave for 30-45 seconds before serving, and they’ll be just as delicious as when they first came out of the oven.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cups. They can be frozen for up to two months. Just ensure they are cooled completely and wrapped individually in plastic wrap or placed in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat as mentioned. This not only saves time but also provides you with a wholesome breakfast option on busy days.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these breakfast cups ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them ahead and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

→ How do I reheat the breakfast cups?

Simply microwave them for about 20-30 seconds, or until warmed through.

→ Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, but you may need to soak them overnight to ensure they cook properly.

→ Are these breakfast cups gluten-free?

They can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free oats and ensuring that your other ingredients are also gluten-free.