Description
Cinnamon Sugar Baked Donuts
Light and Fluffy Donuts Coated in Sweet Cinnamon Sugar
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
3/4 cup whole milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Coating:
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons melted butter
Directions:
1. Prepare the batter:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a donut pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
2. Bake the donuts:
Spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the donuts are lightly golden and spring back when touched. Allow them to cool slightly before removing from the pan.
3. Coat the donuts:
In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the coating.
Brush the warm donuts lightly with melted butter and dip them into the cinnamon-sugar mixture, coating evenly.
4. Serve:
Serve warm or at room temperature with your favorite coffee or tea.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Baking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 27 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal per donut | Servings: 12 donuts
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect donuts every time. First, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter. Preheat your oven and grease the donut pan thoroughly, including the center post. When mixing, combine the wet and dry ingredients with a gentle folding motion until no large flour streaks remain; overmixing creates tough donuts. For filling the pan, a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off is the cleanest method. Bake on the middle rack and perform the toothpick test at 10 minutes. Let donuts cool in the pan for exactly 5 minutes—this sets the structure but keeps them warm enough for the sugar coating to adhere.
Serving Suggestions
These donuts are versatile. For a brunch spread, serve them alongside fresh fruit and yogurt. For a decadent dessert, drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze or melted chocolate. Pairing them with a spiced chai latte, cold brew coffee, or a glass of milk complements the cinnamon sugar perfectly. They also make a delightful gift when packaged in a decorative box or cellophane bag.
How-to Summary
In short: Whisk dry ingredients. Mix wet ingredients separately. Combine gently. Pipe into a greased donut pan. Bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes. Cool briefly. Brush with melted butter and roll in a cinnamon-sugar mix. Serve and enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these without a donut pan?
Yes, you can use a muffin tin, though the classic ring shape will be lost. Fill muffin cups halfway and adjust baking time slightly.
How should I store leftover donuts?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The sugar coating may soften. They do not freeze well after coating.
Can I use a different type of milk?
Absolutely. Any milk, including plant-based alternatives like almond or oat milk, will work in this recipe.
Why are my donuts dense?
This is typically caused by overmixing the batter or using expired baking powder. Mix until just combined and check your leavener’s freshness.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s not recommended. The baking powder begins activating once liquid is added, so for the best rise, bake immediately after mixing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling the pan: Filling more than 2/3 full causes the donuts to lose their hole and become muffin-like.
- Coating when too hot: Dipping immediately out of the oven can cause the sugar to melt. Let them cool for 5 minutes.
- Overmixing the batter: This develops gluten, leading to a chewy, not fluffy, texture.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs or milk can re-solidify the melted butter, creating a lumpy batter.
Conclusion
These Cinnamon Sugar Baked Donuts offer a simpler, healthier alternative to fried versions without sacrificing any comfort or flavor. The process is straightforward, the result is consistently delightful, and the aroma is utterly irresistible. This recipe proves that a homemade, warm, sugar-dusted treat can be just minutes away, turning an ordinary morning or afternoon into something special. Happy baking!