As I pulled the first batch of donuts from the oven, the heavenly aroma of cinnamon wafted through my kitchen, transporting me back to my grandmother’s cozy little bakery. These Best Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are not just a little piece of nostalgia; they’re soft, fluffy, and perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to your mornings. What I love most is their versatility—this recipe allows for gluten-free substitutions, making them accessible to everyone, and lets you get creative with the sugar coating by incorporating spices like nutmeg or pumpkin spice. Best of all, they offer a healthier alternative to fried donuts, so you can indulge guilt-free. So, are you ready to bring those warm, comforting vibes into your kitchen? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why are Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts a must-try?
Irresistible Aroma: The moment these donuts are baking, your kitchen fills with the mouthwatering scent of cinnamon, evoking warmth and nostalgia.
Soft and Fluffy: Unlike traditional fried options, these baked delights boast a light, airy texture that melts in your mouth, making them a delightful morning treat.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: With lower oil content, they offer a healthier approach to satisfy your sweet cravings, ensuring you can enjoy them without the guilt.
Versatile Customization: Feel free to tailor the sugar coating—add nutmeg or pumpkin spice for unique flavors that suit your mood! Consider pairing these with a warm cup of coffee or even some Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal for a cozy brunch.
Easy to Make: This straightforward recipe only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for spontaneous breakfast plans or brunch gatherings.
Family Favorite: Watch your loved ones’ faces light up as they enjoy these delightful treats; they’re bound to become a staple in your home!
Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Ingredients
For the Donut Batter
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and a fluffy texture; substitute with gluten-free baking flour for a gluten-free version.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to the batter and is also used for the cinnamon sugar coating.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to help the donuts rise.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- Ground Cinnamon – Key flavoring agent in both the batter and the coating; consider adding nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a delightful twist.
- Milk – Moistens the batter and creates a tender texture; use dairy-free milk if desired.
- Egg – Binds ingredients together, contributing to a cake-like texture.
- Melted Butter – Adds richness and flavor to the donuts; can be replaced with vegetable oil for a nondairy option.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile, making the donuts more aromatic.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens and is the base for your cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Ground Cinnamon – Elevates the coating with its warm flavor; feel free to mix in nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal kick.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating up, generously grease your donut pan with non-stick spray or butter, ensuring each cavity is well coated. This step is crucial for easy removal later, and you’ll want to get that donut pan ready to go!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Use a whisk to blend the ingredients thoroughly; this ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed for perfectly risen Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Whisk Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined. You’re looking for a smooth mixture that will meld beautifully with the dry ingredients. Be sure to break up any egg clumps to achieve that lovely cake-like texture in your donuts.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Gently stir the batter with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. It’s important not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This step will create the soft, fluffy donuts you’re eager to bake.
Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan
Carefully fill each cavity of the greased donut pan about two-thirds full with the batter. This helps the donuts maintain their shape while baking. You can use a piping bag for a cleaner process or a spoon if you don’t have one. Just be sure to distribute the batter evenly among the cavities.
Step 6: Bake the Donuts
Place the donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs—no wet batter. The donuts should be lightly golden on top, inviting you to indulge in their warm, fluffy goodness.
Step 7: Cool and Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully turn the donuts out onto a wire rack. While they are still warm, roll them in a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon to create that irresistible coating. This step enhances the flavor and adds that classic cinnamon sugar touch.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
These Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are best served warm, perhaps with a side of coffee or milk for a perfect breakfast treat. Stack them on a serving plate, sprinkle with a little extra cinnamon sugar for a delightful presentation, and savor each bite of nostalgia and sweetness!
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are perfect for busy schedules! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; just mix the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container. For the wet ingredients, combine them and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Additionally, you can bake the donuts and refrigerate them for up to 3 days; simply warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes before rolling in cinnamon sugar. This keeps them tasting fresh and fluffy, ensuring each bite remains just as delightful as the first. With these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy your warm, comforting donuts any day of the week, effortlessly!
How to Store and Freeze Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Room Temperature: Store your baked cinnamon sugar donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and delicious.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. This prevents them from sticking together.
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen baked cinnamon sugar donuts, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes, or microwave for 10-15 seconds for quicker results.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating: If re-heating, consider rolling them in fresh cinnamon sugar for an extra pop of flavor that makes them feel freshly baked!
What to Serve with Best Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Warm, fluffy donuts deserve a delightful array of accompaniments to create the perfect breakfast experience.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits add a refreshing contrast to the sweet, spiced donuts, balancing flavors beautifully.
- Creamy Greek Yogurt: A dollop of tangy yogurt complements the sweetness of the donuts and makes for a delicious, protein-packed pairing.
- Spiced Coffee: A cup of cinnamon-infused coffee enhances the cozy flavors of the donuts, making for a perfect morning ritual.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: Add a touch of indulgence by drizzling warm maple syrup over the donuts; it creates an irresistible sweet contrast.
- Nutty Granola: Crunchy granola offers a delightful texture that complements the soft donuts, making your breakfast both satisfying and varied.
- Chocolate Milk: For a nostalgic touch, serve with a glass of chocolate milk that pairs wonderfully with the cinnamon sugar coating.
- Cinnamon Apple Compote: This warm, spiced apple topping adds a comforting element, combining the best of sweet and fruity flavors.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: For a delightful afternoon treat, serve the donuts warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for a cozy dessert.
- Fresh Mint Tea: A refreshing cup of mint tea cleanses the palate, creating a lovely contrast with the richness of the donuts.
Expert Tips for Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Quick Cinnamon Sugar: Make sure to roll the donuts in cinnamon sugar while they are still warm for better adhesion and flavor absorption.
Pan Preparation: Generously grease your donut pan to ensure easy release; this will save you from frustrating breakage during the removal.
Room Temperature: Use room-temperature ingredients when mixing, as this helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking for your baked cinnamon sugar donuts.
Avoid Overmixing: Gently stir the batter until just combined; overmixing can lead to dense donuts instead of the fluffy texture you desire.
Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice to the batter or cinnamon sugar coating for a seasonal twist.
Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Variations
Embrace your creativity and make these irresistible donuts your own with these fun variations!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free baking flour to ensure everyone can enjoy these treats.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or swap in pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist on the classic cinnamon flavor.
- Indulgent Drizzle: Drizzle warm donuts with caramel sauce to elevate that sweet goodness to a whole new level.
- Donut Holes: No donut pan? No problem! Use a muffin tin to shape your batter into delightful donut holes.
- Flavored Sugar Coating: Mix in brown sugar for a deeper flavor or try coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
- Zesty Addition: Incorporate a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest into the batter for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens every bite.
- Chocolate Lovers: Add cocoa powder to the batter for chocolate-flavored donuts, then roll them in chocolate cinnamon sugar after baking.
- Apple Crisp Twist: Fold in chunks of apple and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a delightful twist reminiscent of warm apple crisp.
As you explore these variations, don’t forget to pair your donuts with a cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of milk for the perfect bite. And if you need more inspiration, why not try these delicious Caramel Apple Cinnamon or Cherry Cinnamon Rolls? Enjoy the joy of baking as you create your special version of these baked delights!
Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Recipe FAQs
What kind of flour should I use for baked cinnamon sugar donuts?
For the best results, use all-purpose flour, which provides structure and fluffiness. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute with gluten-free baking flour, which works well to maintain the donut’s delightful texture.
How should I store my baked cinnamon sugar donuts?
Store your baked cinnamon sugar donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and tasty! If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 1 month.
Can I freeze baked cinnamon sugar donuts?
Absolutely! To freeze your donuts, first, allow them to cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container—this method prevents them from sticking together. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.
What do I do if my donuts stick to the pan?
If your donuts stick, it’s likely due to insufficient greasing of the pan. I recommend using a generous amount of non-stick spray or butter before filling with batter. For the best results, let them cool for about 5 minutes in the pan before attempting to remove them, as this helps them set.
Are baked cinnamon sugar donuts suitable for people with allergies?
Baked cinnamon sugar donuts can be tailored to accommodate some dietary restrictions. For example, substitute dairy milk with a non-dairy option, use gluten-free flour, and replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce for a vegan version. However, always ensure to check all ingredient labels for possible allergens, as they may vary by brand.
How can I enhance the flavor of my baked cinnamon sugar donuts?
To elevate the flavor profile, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice to your batter or cinnamon sugar coating. Moreover, drizzling with caramel sauce or a light icing can add a special touch. Experiment with these additions to find blends that suit your taste—enjoy the exploration!
Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts That Will Brighten Your Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your donut pan with non-stick spray or butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Whisk to blend thoroughly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined; a few lumps are fine.
- Fill each cavity of the greased donut pan about two-thirds full with the batter.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean or with a few crumbs.
- Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes, then turn the donuts out onto a wire rack.
- While still warm, roll the donuts in a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Serve warm, possibly with coffee or milk for a perfect breakfast treat.
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