Cinnamon Vanilla Breakfast Cups

Name: Cinnamon Vanilla Breakfast Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup oats; 2 cups milk (or plant-based milk); 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup chopped nuts or fruit (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love starting my day with these Cinnamon Vanilla Breakfast Cups! They combine the warmth of cinnamon and the sweetness of vanilla into a delightful breakfast option. Whether I'm rushing to work or enjoying a leisurely Sunday morning, these cups always make my day feel special. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make and packed with flavor. I like to prepare a batch ahead of time, making mornings not just delicious but also hassle-free. Trust me, once you try these, they'll become a beloved staple in your breakfast rotation.

Created by

Bethany Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:43:20.442Z

When I first attempted to create a breakfast recipe that was both delicious and quick, I stumbled upon the idea of breakfast cups. I combined my favorite flavors—cinnamon and vanilla—into a simple mixture, poured it into muffin liners, and emerged with these delightful breakfast cups. They are always a hit with my family and friends!

One tip I discovered is to let the mixture rest for a few minutes before pouring it into the cups. This allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, bringing out the rich vanilla flavor and aromatic cinnamon. I now always make an extra batch because they disappear fast!

        Why You'll Love These Cups
        Warm and comforting cinnamon flavor in every bite
Easy to prepare and a perfect grab-and-go breakfast
Versatile enough to customize with your favorite toppings

      

Ingredient Highlights

The combination of oats and Greek yogurt forms a hearty base for these breakfast cups, providing a good dose of fiber and protein. Oats are not only filling but also contribute to a chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the yogurt. If you're looking for a gluten-free option, choose certified gluten-free oats. This small switch allows you to enjoy the same delightful flavors without compromising your dietary needs.

Cinnamon and vanilla are the stars of this recipe. The warmth of cinnamon infuses the cups with a cozy aroma that makes your kitchen feel inviting. I recommend using fresh ground cinnamon for the best flavor. If you want to elevate the taste further, consider a dash of nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist. Vanilla extract adds a sweet note, but for even richer flavor, you could substitute it with the seeds from a vanilla bean.

Tips for Baking Success

When filling the muffin tin, avoid overfilling to ensure even baking and to prevent overflow. Fill each cup about three-quarters full, as the mixture will rise during baking. Make sure to use a standard muffin tin; using a mini tin will alter baking times significantly. If you're unsure, start checking for doneness a couple of minutes before the suggested time to prevent overcooking.

Baking time can vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of your muffin cups. Look for a golden-brown top and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. If the tops are browning too quickly, you can loosely cover the muffin tin with aluminum foil halfway through baking to prevent them from becoming overly dark while allowing the insides to cook thoroughly.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started on your Cinnamon Vanilla Breakfast Cups:

Ingredients

1 cup oats
2 cups milk (or plant-based milk)
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped nuts or fruit (optional)

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to create a delightful breakfast treat!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Cinnamon Vanilla Breakfast Cups:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease the tin.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine oats, milk, Greek yogurt, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, baking powder, and salt. Stir until well mixed.

Add Optional Toppings

If desired, fold in chopped nuts or fruit to add extra flavor and texture.

Fill the Muffin Tin

Divide the mixture evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cups to cool slightly before removing them from the tin. Serve warm or store in an airtight container for later enjoyment.

Enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Vanilla Breakfast Cups!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize these cups with your favorite fruits or spices for an extra twist. They also freeze well, so you can prepare a larger batch for busy mornings.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These breakfast cups are perfect for meal prep! Once baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. They also freeze beautifully—just pop them into a freezer-safe container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you're ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds or bake from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

For a delightful serving experience, pair these breakfast cups with fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt on top. Feel free to drizzle with extra honey or maple syrup before serving for added sweetness. They're perfect for a busy weekday breakfast or a leisurely brunch when you want something quick yet satisfying.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with mix-ins! Beyond nuts and fruits, consider adding dark chocolate chips for a sweeter treat or incorporating dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a chewy texture. For a protein boost, toss in some chia seeds, which also add a nice crunch. Just be mindful of the total volume so that your mixture remains balanced.

You can also customize the flavor profile by experimenting with different spices. A bit of ginger or pumpkin pie spice can provide a seasonal twist to these breakfast cups. If you're aiming for a more dessert-like treat, a splash of almond extract can complement the vanilla perfectly, giving it a delightful new layer of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use non-dairy milk?

Absolutely! Any plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk works perfectly in this recipe.

→ How should I store the breakfast cups?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week, or freeze them for longer storage.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare these cups ahead of time and reheat them in the microwave for a quick breakfast.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding vanilla bean paste, nutmeg, or even a touch of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.