Save Soft, tender muffin balls infused with sweet tea flavor, swirled with cinnamon sugar, and finished with a crunchy coating—a playful, crowd-pleasing treat perfect for snacking or dessert.
I first made these muffin balls for a summer gathering and everyone kept asking for the recipe. Rolling them in cinnamon sugar while warm creates a caramelized crunch everyone loves.
Ingredients
- Sweet Tea Base: 1 cup (240 ml) strong brewed sweet tea, cooled; 1/3 cup (75 g) unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Dry Ingredients: 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt
- Cinnamon Sugar: 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar; 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Topping: 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted (for rolling); additional 1/2 cup (100 g) cinnamon sugar mixture (for coating)
Instructions
- Prepare Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the sweet tea, melted butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Mixtures:
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined (do not overmix).
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar:
- In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup sugar with 2 teaspoons cinnamon for the filling.
- Form Muffin Balls:
- Scoop out heaping tablespoons of dough. Flatten each slightly in your hand, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon sugar inside, then roll into a ball, sealing the cinnamon sugar inside.
- Bake:
- Place balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until lightly golden and set.
- Coat and Serve:
- Cool for 5 minutes. While still warm, roll each ball in melted butter, then coat in the additional cinnamon sugar mixture. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Save My kids love helping roll the warm cakes in butter and cinnamon sugar—making it a fun dessert to prepare together.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, whisk, measuring cups and spoons, baking sheet, parchment paper, small bowl, cookie scoop or tablespoon.
Allergen Information
Muffin balls contain wheat (gluten), eggs, and dairy (butter)—always check sweet tea ingredients if using store-bought.
Nutritional Information
Each muffin ball contains approximately 120 calories, 5 g total fat, 17 g carbohydrates, and 2 g protein.
Save Serve these playful muffin balls fresh for maximum flavor and crunch—they’re sure to be a hit at your next gathering or cozy afternoon treat.
Kitchen Questions
- → How can I intensify the sweet tea flavor?
Use extra strong brewed sweet tea and ensure it is cooled before mixing with other ingredients.
- → Can I add mix-ins to the dough?
Yes, chocolate chips or chopped pecans work well and add extra texture and richness.
- → Do these muffin balls need to be served warm?
They're delicious both warm and at room temperature, letting you enjoy their tender crumb and flavors.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep muffin balls in an airtight container for up to two days to maintain freshness and texture.
- → Can these be made ahead for parties?
Yes, prepare the balls in advance and add the final butter and cinnamon sugar coating right before serving for best crunch.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes, the muffin balls are vegetarian, containing dairy and eggs but no meat products.
- → What allergens are present?
These contain wheat (gluten), dairy (butter), and eggs. Always check sweet tea ingredients if store-bought.