Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins

If you love the sweet, comforting flavors of cinnamon sugar donuts but want something a little easier to make and share, these Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins are exactly what you need. They’re fluffy, tender, and coated with a buttery cinnamon sugar topping that gives you all the nostalgia of a classic donut without the fuss of frying. Perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert, these muffins come together quickly and use simple pantry staples. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to keep this recipe close for all your cozy cravings.

Why This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins Stands Out

What makes these Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins truly special is how they capture the essence of a donut in muffin form. The batter is light and moist, thanks to the combination of milk and oil, while the cinnamon and sugar in the mix add just the right touch of warmth. But the real magic happens after baking, when you dip the muffins in melted butter and roll them in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar, giving each bite that irresistible, melt-in-your-mouth sweetness and a slight crunch from the topping. They’re perfect for those mornings when you want something homemade but don’t have time to make doughnuts from scratch. Plus, they’re customizable and pair wonderfully with coffee or tea.

What Goes In

• 1 cup all-purpose flour – The base of the muffin, providing structure.
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the batter.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the muffins rise and become fluffy.
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda – Works with the baking powder for lift.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Infuses the batter with warm, spicy flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• 1/2 cup milk – Keeps the muffins moist and tender.
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil – Adds moisture and richness.
• 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients and adds structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds depth and aroma.
• 1/4 cup melted butter – For dipping the muffins before coating.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping) – Mixed with cinnamon to coat the muffins.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping) – Adds that classic cinnamon sugar finish.

Essential Tools for Success

• Muffin tin: Standard 12-cup muffin pan works perfectly for even baking.
• Muffin liners or non-stick spray: To prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Mixing bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Whisk or spoon: For mixing batter without overworking it.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for perfect muffins.
• Cooling rack: To let muffins cool before coating.
• Small bowl: For mixing the cinnamon sugar topping.

Directions: Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Muffin Tin

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or grease the cups with non-stick spray. This will help your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins come out cleanly and maintain their shape.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and salt. Make sure these are well combined so the leavening agents are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. This mixture will bring moisture and richness to your muffins.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together with a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be just combined with a few lumps remaining. Overmixing can make muffins tough.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Cups

Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full. This gives them room to rise without overflowing.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Springy

Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The tops should be lightly golden and spring back when touched.

Step 7: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

While the muffins bake, combine 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Set aside.

Step 8: Butter Dip and Coat

Once the muffins are out of the oven, let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack for another 5 minutes. While still warm, brush or dip each muffin in melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. This step is what transforms these muffins into Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm or at room temperature. These muffins are delicious on their own or paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea. They also make a wonderful treat for breakfast or afternoon snack.

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

• Milk: Use almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk for a dairy-free option.
• Vegetable oil: Substitute with melted coconut oil or light olive oil.
• Egg: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) for an egg-free alternative.
• All-purpose flour: Swap with gluten-free flour blend for gluten sensitivity.
• Butter: Use dairy-free margarine or coconut oil for the coating.

Errors to Dodge

• Overmixing the batter: This can make your muffins dense and tough instead of light and fluffy.
• Not measuring ingredients properly: Too much flour or sugar can throw off the texture.
• Skipping the butter dip: The butter is essential for the cinnamon sugar to stick and give that classic donut texture.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Too hot can burn the edges, too cool results in undercooked centers.
• Not cooling muffins enough before coating: If too hot, the topping can melt off or become soggy.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Once cooled and coated, store your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, then warm slightly before serving to bring back softness. You can also freeze them by wrapping each muffin individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature, then warm in the microwave or oven for the best experience.

Helpful Q&A

Can I make these muffins without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flax egg or a commercial egg replacer. This keeps the muffins moist and holds the batter together without changing the flavor.

Are these muffins suitable for breakfast?

Absolutely. These Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins make a delightful breakfast treat, especially when paired with a hot beverage. They’re sweet but not overly so, making them perfect to start your day.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?

Definitely! Adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips is a great way to customize your muffins. Just fold them into the batter gently before filling the muffin cups.

How do I prevent the muffins from sticking to the pan?

Using paper liners or generously greasing the muffin tin with oil or butter will keep the muffins from sticking. Also, letting them cool a bit before removing helps maintain their shape.

More from the Kitchen

• Pumpkin Muffins – If you love seasonal flavors, these moist pumpkin muffins are a must-try.
• Easy Churro Bites – For another cinnamon sugar delight, these bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking.

Hungry for More?

If you enjoyed these Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins, consider exploring other baked goodies that bring warmth and comfort to your kitchen. From quick breads to sweet cookies, there’s a world of flavors waiting to be discovered. Baking is all about experimenting and making recipes your own, so don’t hesitate to add your favorite spices or toppings to this recipe. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, these muffins are sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe collection.

No matter how busy life gets, taking a moment to enjoy a freshly baked muffin can make all the difference. So grab your ingredients and start baking – these Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins are ready to become your new favorite treat!

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