Cinnamon Sugar Baked Donuts Recipe – Easy & Delicious Treats

Who doesn’t love the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked donuts? Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy donut coated in cinnamon sugar, with just the right amount of sweetness and spice. Cinnamon sugar baked donuts are the perfect treat for any woman who loves to cook, offering an easy and fun way to indulge in homemade pastries. Whether you’re baking for your family, a special occasion, or just a cozy weekend treat, these donuts are sure to delight. Let’s dive into this simple and scrumptious recipe that will have everyone asking for more!

Ingredients you’ll need for the Donuts

Making these cinnamon sugar baked donuts is simpler than you might think! You probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure for the muffins.
1 tablespoon baking powder – Leavening agent for a light rise.
½ teaspoon salt – To balance flavors.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Adds spice and warmth.
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg – Complements cinnamon for cozy flavor.
½ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the donuts.
2 large eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture.
½ cup milk – Adds moisture and softness to the donuts.
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted – Helps the batter blend smoothly.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – For enhanced flavor.
¼ cup brown sugar – For a deep, molasses-like sweetness (for the cinnamon sugar coating).
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – To create the perfect cinnamon sugar coating.

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Donut Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 6-cup donut pan with non-stick spray or butter to ensure the donuts come out easily once baked. This simple step will save you time and effort later on.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. These spices will give your donuts that classic cinnamon flavor with a little warmth from the nutmeg. Set the dry ingredients aside for now.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Be sure the butter is melted and cooled slightly to avoid cooking the eggs. The combination of these ingredients will create a moist and flavorful batter for your donuts.

Step 4: Bring it All Together:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense donuts. The batter should be thick but smooth.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan:
Carefully spoon or pipe the donut batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cup about ¾ full. This ensures your donuts will bake up nice and fluffy. If you’re using a piping bag, it can help create neat and uniform donuts.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts:
Place the donut pan in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary. The donuts should be soft but firm enough to hold their shape.

Step 7: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
While the donuts are baking, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Once the donuts have cooled slightly, brush them lightly with melted butter, and then roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This step is where the magic happens! The cinnamon sugar coating adds that irresistible sweetness and crunch.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy:
Once coated, your cinnamon sugar baked donuts are ready to enjoy! Serve them warm for the best flavor and texture. They’re perfect with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making them an ideal breakfast or snack for any time of day.

Recipe Notes for Perfect Donuts:

Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to dense, chewy donuts. Stir gently until just combined to keep them light and fluffy.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spices and baking powder will give your donuts the best flavor and texture.
Customize Your Coating: If you love a little extra sweetness, feel free to dip the donuts in more cinnamon sugar after they’ve cooled. You can even add a drizzle of icing for a more indulgent treat!
Make It Your Own: Add a pinch of cardamom or a splash of vanilla extract to customize the flavor of your donuts. Get creative with your ingredients!

Storage:

To store your cinnamon sugar baked donuts, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Simply wrap the donuts in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature or warm them up in the oven for a few minutes.

Time and Serving Information

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Baking Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 22-25 minutes
Servings: This recipe makes about 6 delicious cinnamon sugar baked donuts.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

Calories: Approximately 210-250 calories per donut, depending on ingredients.
Protein: 3-4 grams – Comes mainly from the eggs and milk.
Carbs: 30-35 grams – The flour, sugar, and fruit contribute to the carbohydrates.
Fats: 8-10 grams – The butter and nuts add a balance of healthy fats.
Fiber: 1-2 grams – From the cinnamon and apples.

FAQs

Yes! You can prepare the donuts a day ahead, store them in an airtight container, and reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to bring back their fresh, warm texture.

Absolutely! After baking, let the donuts cool completely, then wrap them in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and enjoy!

If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin to make “donut holes” or use a round cookie cutter to shape the batter before baking.

You can substitute some of the ingredients to make them healthier. For example, use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, reduce the sugar by a little, or substitute applesauce for the butter.

Of course! Feel free to experiment with different toppings like chopped nuts, chocolate drizzle, or a dusting of powdered sugar for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

Cinnamon sugar baked donuts are the perfect treat for anyone who loves baking. They’re simple to make, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re baking for a special breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack, these donuts are sure to hit the spot. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, so you can feel good about enjoying them without the guilt. Try this recipe today and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade donuts right in your own kitchen!