It’s hard to resist the warm, sugary aroma that fills your kitchen when you bake cinnamon sugar donuts. These fluffy little rings of joy are like a hug for your taste buds, with their crispy exteriors and soft, pillowy centers. Imagine biting into one, the sweetness dancing on your palate while that nostalgic cinnamon flavor takes you back to simpler times spent in grandma’s kitchen.
These baked cinnamon sugar donuts are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy Sunday brunch or a last-minute treat for unexpected guests. Trust me, the first time I made them, my family erupted into a chorus of “More, please!” You’ll want to keep this recipe close; it’s sure to be a hit that brings everyone together over coffee and laughter. pumpkin swirl cake recipe cinnamon swirl bread recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These baked cinnamon sugar donuts are simple to prepare and require no frying
- The flavor profile is a delightful blend of sweet and spicy
- Their golden-brown exterior makes them visually appealing for any gathering
- Versatile enough for breakfast or dessert, these donuts will satisfy any craving
I still remember the first time I served these donuts at a family gathering; they disappeared faster than I could say “seconds!”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
All-Purpose Flour: A staple for baking, this flour gives our donuts that lovely structure and texture.
-
Baking Powder: The secret behind those fluffy donuts; it helps them rise beautifully in the oven.
-
Cinnamon: Opt for fresh ground cinnamon for the best flavor; it adds warmth and spice. For more inspiration, check out this Pumpkin Spice Latte recipe.
-
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the batter and adds a delightful crunch when coated after baking.
-
Butter: Use unsalted butter for rich flavor; it enhances both taste and mouthfeel in the donuts.
-
Eggs: They provide moisture and richness, giving our donuts a tender crumb.
-
Milk: Whole milk works best here; it keeps the batter nice and creamy.
-
Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla elevates the overall flavor profile of our delicious donuts.
-
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: Combine equal parts sugar and cinnamon to coat your warm donuts for that irresistible finish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking as soon as you pop those beauties in.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. This step sets up your donut base perfectly.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy. It should look like clouds—trust me; clouds are good!
Add Eggs and Milk: Beat in eggs one at a time followed by milk and vanilla extract until everything is smoothly blended. The mixture should be creamy without any lumps.
Combine Mixtures Together: Gradually fold in dry ingredients into the wet mixture using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; we want soft donuts—not tough ones!
Pour into Donut Pan**: Lightly grease your donut pan then spoon or pipe batter into each mold about three-quarters full. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect circles—they’ll bake beautifully!
Bake Away!**: Place your donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown. You’ll know they’re done when they spring back upon touch.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating**: As soon as they cool slightly, toss warm donuts in a generous coating of the cinnamon sugar mixture. Watch out—this is where things get dangerously delicious!
Now you have mouth-watering baked cinnamon sugar donuts ready to devour! Enjoy them fresh out of the oven with coffee or tea—or sneak one (or two) for breakfast! baked pumpkin spice donuts. pumpkin scones for autumn.
Baked cinnamon sugar donuts are not just treats; they’re little moments of happiness wrapped in sweetness. Each bite transports you back to those cherished moments around the table with loved ones—where laughter is abundant, stories are shared, and calories don’t count! For more inspiration, check out this Jamaican Banana Fritters recipe.
You Must Know
- Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are an irresistible treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon with a soft, fluffy texture
- These donuts are baked, making them a healthier alternative to fried versions, yet they still deliver on flavor and comfort
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your donut pan while mixing the batter to streamline the process and ensure perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the milk for almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option. You can also add nutmeg for extra spice.
Storing & Reheating
Store your baked donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat in a microwave for about 10 seconds to bring back their fluffiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; stale spices will dull your donuts
- Make sure not to overmix your batter; this keeps them light and fluffy
- Experiment with glazing options like vanilla icing or maple syrup for a twist!
Baking these donuts always reminds me of sunny weekends spent in my grandma’s kitchen, where the air was filled with love (and cinnamon). Her secret? Always dance while you mix – it makes everything taste better!
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat flour for Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used but may make them denser.
How long do Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts last?
They last up to three days stored in an airtight container.
Can I freeze these donuts?
Absolutely! Just freeze them in a single layer before transferring them to a bag.
Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Makes about 8 donuts 1x
Description
Indulge in the warm, sweet aroma of baked cinnamon sugar donuts that will transport you back to cherished moments in the kitchen. These delightful treats boast a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy center, making them perfect for any occasion—from cozy brunches to surprise visits from friends. Easy to prepare and healthier than fried alternatives, these donuts are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar mixed with 2 tsp ground cinnamon for coating
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in milk and vanilla.
- Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined (do not overmix).
- Spoon or pipe the batter into the donut pan, filling each mold about three-quarters full.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and springy to touch.
- Toss warm donuts in the cinnamon sugar mixture before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut (40g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
