Pin Soft, spiced muffin pops featuring a chai-inspired batter, gooey caramel centers, and a crunchy cinnamon sugar coating — the perfect treat for parties or cozy afternoons.
The first time I made these muffin pops was for a friend's birthday party, and they were gone within minutes. Baking them always fills the kitchen with a cozy scent that reminds me of winter gatherings spent chatting and laughing with loved ones.
Ingredients
- Muffin Batter: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground ginger, 1/2 tsp ground cardamom, 1/4 tsp ground cloves, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened), 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 3/4 cup whole milk
- Caramel Centers: 18 soft caramel candies (store-bought or homemade)
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating: 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted), 2/3 cup granulated sugar, 2 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare Baking Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini muffin tin (18 wells) or line with mini paper liners.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
- Mix Batter:
- Add half of the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stir to combine, then add the milk. Add the remaining dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Fill Muffin Cups:
- Spoon 1 tablespoon of batter into each muffin cup. Press one caramel candy into the center of each. Cover with another tablespoon of batter, ensuring the caramel is fully enclosed.
- Bake:
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the tops spring back when lightly pressed. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Add Coating:
- For the coating, dip each muffin pop in melted butter, then roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat evenly.
- Serve:
- Insert a lollipop stick or skewer into each muffin for easy serving, if desired.
Pin 
My family loves to gather around the kitchen counter and help coat the muffin pops in cinnamon sugar. It turns baking into a fun, shared experience that always ends with smiles and sticky fingers.
Required Tools
Mini muffin tin (18-cup), mixing bowls, electric mixer or whisk, measuring cups and spoons, small saucepan (if making homemade caramel), cooling rack, lollipop sticks or skewers (optional)
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (gluten), milk, eggs, and possibly soy (in caramel candies). Always review packaging for any additional allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per muffin pop: 170 calories, 8 g total fat, 24 g carbohydrates, 2 g protein.
Pin Enjoy these fragrant muffin pops as a sweet party treat or a cozy afternoon snack with chai. Their spiced aroma and caramel surprise make every bite special!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What spices create the chai flavor?
Chai flavor comes from cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, clove, and nutmeg blended into the batter.
- → How do I ensure gooey caramel centers?
Use soft caramel candies and completely enclose them in batter before baking for gooey centers.
- → Can I substitute caramel with other fillings?
Chocolate or dulce de leche can be used for a fun twist on the classic caramel center.
- → How do I achieve a crunchy coating?
Dip baked muffins in melted butter, then roll in cinnamon sugar for a crisp, sweet shell.
- → Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the pops are vegetarian if you choose vegetarian-friendly caramel candies.
- → What's the best way to serve them for parties?
Insert lollipop sticks or skewers for easy serving and a playful presentation at gatherings.