Imagine stepping into a warm, inviting kitchen where the air is filled with the sweet, comforting scent of cinnamon and sugar. The kind of aroma that wraps around you like a cozy blanket, instantly lifting your spirits and transporting you back to joyful moments spent in the company of loved ones. You turn your gaze towards the oven, where plump, golden-brown donuts puff to perfection, their slightly craggy tops promising a delightful crunch. These are not just any donuts; they are the best baked cinnamon sugar donuts you’ll ever taste—each bite offers a tender, moist interior that contrasts beautifully with the sugary, crisp exterior.
Baked rather than fried, these donuts maintain a lightness that makes them feel like a gentle embrace rather than a heavy indulgence. They embody the essence of a warm hug on a chilly morning, perfect for breakfast with a steaming cup of coffee or tucked inside a lovely brunch spread. Every dusting of cinnamon sugar sparkles like tiny jewels, beckoning you to take that first eagerly anticipated bite. As your teeth sink into the soft, cake-like texture, the flavors dance on your palate, and you linger a moment longer, savoring just how utterly delightful they are.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Recipe
The love for these baked cinnamon sugar donuts runs deep, and for good reason! Not only do they strike the perfect balance between sweetness and spice, but they also offer the satisfaction of enjoying a treat without the guilt that often comes with fried pastries. Each donut emerges from the oven with a lovely breath of cinnamon and a glossy coat of sugar that is simply irresistible.
They serve as the ultimate comfort food, ideal for countless occasions—whether it’s a leisurely weekend brunch with family, an afternoon treat during the workweek, or simply a satisfying midnight snack. And if you’re entertaining guests, these donuts will undoubtedly steal the show, making them a standout addition to any gathering. The enchantment lies not only in their flavor but in their simplicity; you can whip up a batch in under an hour, filling your kitchen with warmth and inviting aromas that promise happiness in every bite.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you get started on this delightful baking adventure, make sure you have the essential tools ready to craft these donuts perfectly.
- Donut Pan: This is crucial for shaping your donuts. The pan ensures uniform cooking and helps achieve a lovely round shape. If you don’t have one, consider using a muffin tin for delightful donut-inspired cake bites.
- Mixing Bowls: Sturdy mixing bowls provide ample space to blend your ingredients and prevent any mess.
- Whisk and Spatula: These tools give you the flexibility to incorporate dry and wet ingredients seamlessly, ensuring a light and airy batter. A spatula is also handy for smoothing out the batter in the pan.
- Piping Bag or Spoon: These tools allow for easy filling of the donut cavities, ensuring they are perfectly portioned every time.
Preparation Tips:
- Preheat your oven ahead of time; this little detail leads to perfectly baked donuts.
- Measure your ingredients properly for consistent results.
- Have your cinnamon sugar coating prepared ahead of time, making it easy to finish off those warm donuts once they come out of the oven.
Ingredients for Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This is the foundation of your donuts, giving them that delightful cake-like texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: This sweetener provides the necessary sweetness, balancing the warm spice of cinnamon.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: This leavening agent ensures your donuts rise beautifully, creating a tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Aromatic and flavorful, this cinnamon lends that classic taste to your donuts.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt amplifies the flavors, making each bite even more satisfying.
- 3/4 cup milk (whole or almond): The moisture from the milk keeps your donuts soft and tender.
- 2 large eggs: These provide structure and bind all your ingredients together.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: This adds richness and enhances the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A dash of vanilla brings warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
- For the coating:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: This creates a delightful crust.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The perfect partner for sugar, enhancing the donut experience.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: This helps the cinnamon sugar mix adhere beautifully to your warm donuts.
You can easily substitute almond milk or a gluten-free flour blend without sacrificing the delightful results!
How to Make Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease your donut pan generously with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth to create a rich and creamy mixture.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix your batter; you want it to remain light and airy.
- Carefully spoon the batter into a piping bag or use a spoon to fill each donut cavity about 3/4 full. Smooth the tops as necessary to ensure even baking.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when lightly pressed. Allow them to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- For the coating, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Brush the warm donuts with melted butter, then roll them in the cinnamon sugar mix until they are fully coated.
Your kitchen should now be alive with the intoxicating aroma of cinnamon and sugar!
Chef’s Notes & Helpful Tips
Make-ahead Tips: Prepare the batter the night before and store it in the fridge. Mix well before baking for a quick morning treat.
Cooking Alternatives: If you prefer an air fryer for a slightly different texture, decrease the cooking time to 8-10 minutes for perfectly fluffy and slightly crispy donuts.
Customization Ideas:
- Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for an unexpected delightful crunch.
- Substitute maple syrup for half of the sugar to create a delicious maple vibe.
- Experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or cardamom, to personalize your flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter, which can lead to tough donuts. Gently combine until just incorporated for airy results.
- Not greasing the pan properly can result in stuck donuts. A good coating of spray or butter is crucial for smooth extraction.
- Ignoring baking time can yield either undercooked or dried-out donuts. Keep an eye on them toward the end of the baking time.
- Filling the cavities too much can lead to overflow. Aim for about 3/4 full for the best outcome.
What to Serve With Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Pair these delightful donuts with:
- Coffee: The perfect pick-me-up that complements the sweetness of the donuts.
- Hot Chocolate: A rich, creamy beverage that feels indulgent alongside the cinnamon sugar’s warmth.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Add a decadent upgrade with this tangy, creamy spread.
- Fresh Fruit: Serve with strawberries or bananas for a refreshing and fruity contrast.
- Yogurt: A dollop of plain or vanilla yogurt adds creaminess and depth.
- Ice Cream: Pair warm donuts with your favorite scoop for an unforgettable dessert experience.
- Milk: A classic pairing that balances sweetness and provides nostalgia.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you have extra, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through, restoring that fresh-baked goodness.
Estimated Nutrition Information
Each donut contains approximately:
- Calories: 175
- Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 3g
(Disclaimer: Nutrition information varies by ingredients and portion sizes.)
FAQs
Q: Can I make these donuts gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.
Q: What can I use instead of butter?
A: You can try coconut oil for a dairy-free version, or a plant-based butter substitute, achieving a similar texture and flavor.
Q: How do I know when the donuts are done baking?
A: Gently touch the tops; if they spring back, they’re ready! Alternatively, you can check with a toothpick—if it comes out clean, they’re good to go.
Q: Can I bake these as mini donuts?
A: Yes! Baking times will be shorter—check around the 6-8 minute mark for mini sizes.
Q: What happens if the batter is too thick?
A: If your batter feels very thick, you can add more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a smooth, thick but pipeable consistency.
Q: How can I make these suitable for a vegan diet?
A: Substitute eggs with flaxseed or chia seeds, and use almond milk along with a vegan butter alternative for a delightful vegan treat.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve journeyed through the luscious world of baked cinnamon sugar donuts, the moment has come to create your own batch. This recipe encapsulates warmth, comfort, and a sprinkle of joy in every bite. Whether for a cozy Sunday morning or an afternoon pick-me-up, these donuts promise satisfaction that lingers. So go ahead—preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and let the sweet magic unfold in your very own kitchen. You’ll find yourself reaching for just one more as the delightful aroma fills your home, leaving you smiling and satisfied. Happy baking!
Print
Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightfully soft and fluffy baked donuts covered in a warm cinnamon sugar coating.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup milk (whole or almond)
- 2 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for coating)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease your donut pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Spoon the batter into a piping bag or use a spoon to fill each donut cavity about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the donuts spring back when lightly pressed. Cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- For the coating, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Brush the warm donuts with melted butter, then roll them in the cinnamon sugar mix until fully coated.
Notes
These donuts can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. You can also customize them with chocolate chips or nuts.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 175
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
