At the crack of dawn, the smell of freshly baked goods wafts through my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. These delightful baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are my go-to recipe whenever I crave something warm and comforting without the hassle of frying. Not only are they light and fluffy, but they’re also vegan-friendly, making them a perfect treat for anyone, regardless of dietary preferences. With minimal prep time and an irresistible cinnamon-sugar coating, these donuts are an easy homemade snack that feels like a warm hug. So, whether you want to impress brunch guests or just indulge in a cozy breakfast, these donuts are sure to bring a smile to your face. Are you ready to savor each sweet bite?
Why are these donuts a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: Each donut is coated in a delightful blend of cinnamon and sugar, creating a sweet, warm flavor that you can’t resist.
Vegan-Friendly: These donuts cater to everyone, providing a delicious option without dairy or eggs, making them suitable for various dietary needs.
Quick and Easy: With less than 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip these up effortlessly—perfect for busy mornings or unexpected guests.
Adaptable Options: Whether you’re in the mood for baked, fried, or gluten-free donuts, this recipe has got you covered.
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: The fluffy, tender crumb feels like a warm embrace with each bite, delivering pure comfort.
Pair these donuts with your favorite coffee or serve them alongside a refreshing fruit salad for a delightful breakfast experience. If you’re looking for more cozy treats, you might also enjoy these Cinnamon Roll Muffins or Baked Apple Cinnamon. Enjoy!
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Ingredients
For the Donuts
• Almond or Oat Milk – Adds moisture and a subtle nutty flavor; feel free to substitute with regular milk or any other plant-based option.
• Melted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; for a dairy-free version, replace it with vegetable oil or coconut oil.
• Sugar – Sweetens the donuts; coconut sugar or a lower-calorie sugar alternative works beautifully here.
• Baking Powder – A leavening agent essential for helping the donuts rise; always use fresh for the best results.
• Baking Soda – Works alongside baking powder for optimal rise and texture.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; fresh vanilla beans can intensify this delightful taste.
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; if preferred, gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-friendly version.
• Cinnamon – Brings warmth and flavor; adjust to taste for a spicier donut experience.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
• Sugar (for coating) – Combined with cinnamon for that delectable finishing touch; adjust the sugar ratio to suit your sweetness preference.
These Cinnamon Sugar Donuts will not only be a hit with your family but also satisfy anyone looking for a cozy, indulgent treat!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin your delightful journey to making Cinnamon Sugar Donuts by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your donuts bake evenly and achieve that golden, fluffy texture you crave. While the oven is heating, gather all your ingredients so you’re ready to mix and bake!
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of almond or oat milk, 1/4 cup of melted butter, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Aim for a smooth consistency, combining until all the ingredients are fully integrated for a deliciously moist batter.
Step 3: Incorporate the Flour
Gradually add 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the wet mixture, stirring gently until a slightly thick, scoopable batter forms. The batter should be smooth yet thicker than pancake batter; this will yield soft and fluffy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts. Avoid overmixing to maintain that tender crumb!
Step 4: Prepare the Donut Molds
Grease 12-14 donut molds generously with cooking spray or butter to ensure easy release after baking. Then, fill each cavity about three-quarters full with the delightful donut batter. Use a piping bag or a spoon for this step to keep things tidy and prevent spills.
Step 5: Bake the Donuts
Carefully place the filled donut molds in the preheated oven, baking them for around 25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should turn golden and puff up beautifully. A toothpick inserted into the center will come out clean when they are perfectly baked.
Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While your donuts bake, mix together 1/2 cup of sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon in a separate bowl. Stir well to create a uniform blend, which will add that sweet, spiced magic to your Cinnamon Sugar Donuts once they’re out of the oven.
Step 7: Cool and Coat the Donuts
Once baked, allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. After cooling slightly, brush them with melted butter, ensuring each one is coated evenly, then toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This step adds a delightful crunch and irresistible flavor to each bite of your freshly made donuts.
Make Ahead Options
These Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are perfect for busy home cooks seeking to streamline their meal prep! You can mix the donut batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours in advance, covering it tightly to maintain moisture. Additionally, you can pre-measure the cinnamon sugar coating and store it in a small container until you’re ready to bake. When you’re set to indulge, simply fill your greased donut molds and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have warm, fluffy donuts ready in no time, making your mornings smoother and your treats just as delicious as if made fresh that day!
Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
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Smooth Batter: Ensure your batter is smooth and slightly thick; this prevents dense donuts and helps achieve that light, fluffy texture everyone loves.
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Cool Time: Let your donuts cool for a few minutes before coating them in cinnamon sugar. This allows the melted butter to adhere better to the surface.
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Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean to guarantee perfectly baked, tender donuts.
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Mold Alternatives: If you don’t have donut molds, a muffin tin can be a great alternative; just fill them halfway to mimic the donut shape.
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Freshness Matters: For the best taste, enjoy these Cinnamon Sugar Donuts fresh. Store leftovers in an airtight container, but aim to consume them within two days for maximum flavor.
What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?
Pair these delightful treats with delicious sides for a meal that warms the heart and lifts the spirits!
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of berries and melons adds a refreshing contrast, enhancing the sweetness of the donuts while providing a burst of freshness.
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Steaming Cup of Coffee: The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee creates harmony with the cinnamon sugar, elevating your breakfast experience to new heights.
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Creamy Yogurt: A side of vanilla or Greek yogurt offers a tangy balance to the sweetness, inviting a rich creaminess that complements each bite beautifully.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Lightly drizzling melted chocolate on top not only adds indulgence but also creates a delightful flavor pairing that’s bound to impress.
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Coconut Whipped Cream: This light, airy topping adds a tropical twist, enhancing the sophistication of your donuts while keeping the dessert feel.
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Maple Syrup: Drizzle warm maple syrup over the donuts for an added layer of sweetness that offers a delightful contrast to the cinnamon sugar coating.
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Herbal Tea: A cup of soothing herbal tea, like chamomile or peppermint, provides a calming companion, perfect for leisurely mornings or afternoon snacking.
How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Room Temperature: Store baked donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you’d like to keep them fresh a bit longer, you can refrigerate the donuts, but they are best enjoyed within one week.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cinnamon sugar donuts individually wrapped in plastic wrap or placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen donuts, thaw them at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a toaster oven until warmed through before serving.
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your creativity into these delightful donuts and make them your own!
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Gluten-Free:
Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to enjoy these treats without gluten. -
Fried Option:
For a traditional twist, fry the donuts instead of baking them for a classic, crispy exterior. -
More Cinnamon:
Add an extra teaspoon of cinnamon into the batter for an intensified spiced experience that warms your soul. -
Nutty Delight:
Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for texture and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness. -
Fruit-Infused:
Fold in small pieces of apple or berries for a burst of fruity goodness, making each bite even more enticing. -
Maple Drizzle:
Top off with a warm maple glaze for an extra layer of sweetness that will have you reaching for seconds. -
Spicy Kick:
Experiment by adding a pinch of cayenne or nutmeg for a subtle heat that beautifully balances the sweetness. -
Coconut Delight:
Use coconut milk instead of almond or oat milk and top them with shredded coconut for a tropical twist.
For even more inspiration, why not try mixing some of these variations with other cozy recipes, like Cinnamon Roll Muffins or these delightful Cinnamon Apple Cottage? Let your kitchen creativity shine!
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best milk for these donuts?
Absolutely! Almond or oat milk is wonderful as it adds moisture and a subtle nutty flavor, essential for a perfect donut. If you prefer or have them on hand, regular milk or any other plant-based milk can work just as well. Just make sure whatever you use is at room temperature for the best mixing results.
What’s the best way to store leftover donuts?
For storing these delightful cinnamon sugar donuts, place them in an airtight container and keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days. This ensures they retain their soft and fluffy texture. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerating is an option, but they’ll taste their best within a week.
Can I freeze these donuts? How?
Absolutely! To freeze your cinnamon sugar donuts, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature or reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up!
What if my donuts turn out dense? Any tips?
Very! If your donuts came out denser than expected, it might be due to overmixing the batter or not having fresh leavening agents. For a fluffy texture, mix just until combined when adding flour, and ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Focusing on these aspects will greatly enhance your donuting experience!
Are there any dietary considerations I need to be aware of?
Definitely! These cinnamon sugar donuts can be made completely vegan by selecting plant-based substitutions. If you or your guests have allergies, be mindful of common allergens like gluten, and consider using gluten-free flour. Always check ingredient labels if you’re unsure, ensuring everyone can enjoy this sweet treat safely.
How long does the cinnamon sugar coating last?
While the cinnamon sugar coating adds irresistible flavor, it’s best applied fresh, right after the donuts are baked for that perfect crunchy exterior. If you do have leftover coating, store it in a sealed container for up to two weeks for future use—no need to let those cinnamon vibes go to waste!
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts That Melt in Your Mouth Every Time
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and gather all your ingredients.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together almond or oat milk, melted butter, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the flour to the wet mixture, stirring gently to form a slightly thick batter.
- Grease donut molds and fill each cavity about three-quarters full with the batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for around 25 minutes, until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- While the donuts bake, mix together sugar and cinnamon for the coating.
- Allow donuts to cool for about 5 minutes, then brush with melted butter and toss in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
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