Name: Irresistibly Soft Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Substitute with gluten-free baking flour for a gluten-free version.); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar (Can use brown sugar for a richer flavor.); 2 teaspoons Baking Powder (Leavening agent.); 2 teaspoons Cinnamon (Feel free to add nutmeg or pumpkin spice.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Enhances overall flavor.); 3/4 cup Milk (Consider non-dairy milk for a vegan adaptation.); 1 large Egg (Can use a flax egg as a vegan alternative.); 1/4 cup Butter (Opt for unsalted butter or a dairy-free alternative.); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Mix with brown sugar for a toasty touch.); 1 tablespoon Cinnamon (Compliments the donuts perfectly.)

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The warm, sweet scent of cinnamon fills the air, instantly transporting me back to cozy mornings at my grandmother’s kitchen table. Her secret? The Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts that never failed to put a smile on my face. Now, I’m excited to share this recipe with you! These delightful donuts are not only soft and fluffy, but they’re also a healthier alternative to their fried counterparts, making them a guilt-free delight for breakfast or brunch gatherings. Whip them up and enjoy a dose of nostalgia, all while savoring the lightness that comes from baking instead of frying. So, are you ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and sugar? Let’s dive in!

Why Are Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Amazing?

Deliciously Light: The baked method ensures these donuts are fluffy and airy, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without the heaviness of fried options.

Customizable Flavor: You can easily elevate the cinnamon taste by adding nutmeg or pumpkin spice, tailoring these baked treats to your liking.

Quick and Easy: Made in just about 30 minutes, these donuts are a simple yet rewarding baking project, ideal for busy mornings or last-minute brunches.

Family-Friendly Fun: Involve your loved ones in the process! Making these donuts is a fun activity that everyone can enjoy together. Pair them with a warm beverage or serve with a Cinnamon Roll Muffins for an epic breakfast spread.

Healthy Twist: With only 130-150 calories each, these treats allow you to indulge in sweetness without the guilt. You could even try gluten-free flour for a healthier option!

Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Ingredients

For the Donuts

• All-Purpose Flour – This is the main structure provider for the donuts; substitute with gluten-free baking flour for a gluten-free version.
• Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; you can use brown sugar for a richer flavor.
• Baking Powder – Acts as the leavening agent to ensure your donuts rise and stay fluffy.
• Cinnamon – The star flavoring spice known for its warm and sweet notes; feel free to add nutmeg or pumpkin spice for an extra layer.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor, balancing the sweetness of the sugar.
• Milk – Provides moisture and richness; consider non-dairy milk for a vegan adaptation.
• Egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds structure; a flax egg can be a great vegan alternative.
• Butter – Contributes richness and moisture; opt for unsalted butter or a dairy-free alternative for a healthier choice.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• Granulated Sugar – This sweetener is the base for the coating; feel free to mix with brown sugar for a toasty touch.
• Cinnamon – Compliments the donuts perfectly, making each bite melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

These Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are an inviting way to start your day, bringing warmth and comfort to your breakfast table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the interior is at the right temperature when your Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts go in, creating that perfect fluffy texture. Use this time to gather all of your ingredients and equipment, including a donut pan and mixing bowls, so you’re ready for the fun ahead.

Step 2: Prepare the Donut Pan
Generously grease your donut pan with non-stick spray or melted butter to prevent any sticking and guarantee easy removal after baking. Make sure to coat each cavity thoroughly, as this will help your donuts come out beautifully rounded and intact while maintaining their lovely shape during the cooking process.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. This step is crucial to ensure the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the mixture, promoting an even rise while baking. You should achieve a light, airy texture in your dry mix that smells beautifully of cinnamon.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix together the milk, egg, and melted butter until fully blended. Take a moment to enjoy the creamy mixture and ensure it’s uniform. Pouring this smooth combination over your dry ingredients will create the moist base for your Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts, adding richness and flavor to each delightful bite.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients with a spatula until just mixed—be careful not to over-mix, as you want your batter to remain light and fluffy. The resulting batter should be thick, but smooth, with no visible dry flour remaining, setting the stage for your soft and airy donuts.

Step 6: Fill the Pan
Spoon the batter into each cavity of the donut pan, filling them halfway to allow room for rising. If you have a piping bag, use it for easy filling! Take a moment to visualize those perfect, fluffy donuts taking shape, ensuring each cavity is uniformly filled for even baking and delightful presentation.

Step 7: Bake the Donuts
Place the filled donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; when they spring back lightly to the touch and a toothpick inserted comes out clean, they are ready to come out. This moment is when your kitchen fills with the irresistible scent of cinnamon-y goodness.

Step 8: Cool Slightly
Once baked, allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. This will make them easier to handle and ensure they don’t break apart. Use a knife to gently loosen the edges if needed, while enjoying the warm aroma of your freshly baked Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts wafting through your home.

Step 9: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
While the donuts are still warm, brush each one with melted butter, allowing it to coat the surface nicely. Then, roll them in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon. The warm donuts will soak up the sugary goodness, creating a deliciously sweet and aromatic exterior that’s sure to awaken your taste buds.

Expert Tips for Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

• Avoid Overfilling: Ensure you fill your donut pan only halfway to allow room for rising; this prevents overflow and helps maintain the perfect shape.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your eggs and milk to room temperature before mixing contributes to a better texture in your baked cinnamon sugar donuts.

• Quick Coating: Work swiftly while donuts are warm when brushing with butter and rolling in cinnamon sugar for optimal adhesion and flavor.

• Check Oven Temperature: Every oven is different; use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for consistent results with your donuts.

• Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to get creative! Add nutmeg, pumpkin spice, or even chocolate chips to your batter for delightful variations on this classic recipe.

Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these delightful donuts to suit your taste!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a delicious alternative. You won’t sacrifice texture or flavor!
Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and coconut oil instead of regular milk and butter. These swaps maintain moisture while catering to dietary needs.
Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to your batter for a delightful crunch. Each bite will surprise you with a lovely nutty flavor that complements the cinnamon.
Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted chocolate over your donuts instead of the cinnamon sugar coating or dip them for a decadent treat. Your inner sweet tooth will thank you for this indulgence!
Spicy-Sweet: Mix in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder with the cinnamon sugar for a surprising kick. It’s a bold twist that elevates the flavors to another level.
Bake with Applesauce: Replace half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version. Each bite will be moist, with a subtle hint of apple flavor that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
Donut Holes: Fill a muffin tin with the donut batter for treat-sized donut holes. They’ll be perfect for sharing or snacking in between meals.
Serve with a Side: Pair your Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts with a warm cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a classic combination. Consider also serving with Baked Smashed Potatoes for a hearty brunch spread!

Embrace the joy of customizing these beautiful baked delights, and may each bite bring a smile!

Storage Tips for Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Room Temperature: Store your donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft and fresh.

Fridge: If you prefer to extend their life, you can refrigerate them for up to 4 days, but they may lose some of their fluffy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, these baked cinnamon sugar donuts can be frozen for up to 1 month. Place them in a freezer-safe bag with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or microwave for 10-15 seconds. Enjoy the delightful aroma!

What to Serve with Best Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?

Enjoying these delightful treats at breakfast opens the door to pairing them with delicious accompaniments that enhance the experience.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A burst of colorful berries and citrus adds brightness and a refreshing contrast, complementing the sweet warmth of your donuts.
Rich Greek Yogurt: The creaminess of Greek yogurt balances the sweetness, creating a delightful dip that you can drizzle with honey or sprinkle with nuts.
Classic Coffee: A steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee pairs perfectly, enhancing the warm cinnamon flavors and waking up your taste buds with every sip.
Chocolate Milk: For a nostalgic touch, serve with chilled chocolate milk. The sweetness and creamy texture will take you back to childhood breakfasts.
Maple Syrup Dip: Provide a small bowl of maple syrup on the side. Its rich, caramel-like flavor complements the cinnamon sugar coating beautifully.
Warm Milk: A warm glass of milk creates a cozy pairing, emphasizing the nostalgic feel of enjoying freshly baked goods while soothing the soul.
Spicy Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea echo the cinnamon in the donuts, making for a comforting drink that pairs impeccably with your sweet treats.

The combination of sweet, savory, and refreshing elements makes for a well-rounded morning meal. Enjoy the love and memories these baked delights bring to your breakfast table!

Make Ahead Options

These Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delightful breakfast with minimal fuss! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container. Keep the wet ingredients separate and combine them just before baking to maintain the donuts’ fluffy texture. Alternatively, you can bake the donuts ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. For the best results, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving, ensuring they remain just as delicious and warm, making your mornings stress-free and satisfying.

Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for the best texture and structure. However, if you need a gluten-free option, simply substitute it with a gluten-free baking flour blend. Just make sure to follow the guideline on the flour package for the best results!

How should I store Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?
To keep your delicious donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you wish to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to 4 days, although that may slightly alter the fluffiness. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Just separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking!

Can I freeze Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the donuts to cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, you can reheat them in the oven or microwave!

What should I do if my donuts come out dense?
If your Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are dense, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients. For fluffy donuts, gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together until just combined. Ensure your ingredients like milk and eggs are at room temperature before mixing, which helps achieve that delightful lightness.

Are there any allergy considerations with Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?
Yes, if you’re mindful of allergies, these donuts contain common allergens like eggs and dairy. However, you can make them allergy-friendly by using a flax egg instead of a regular egg and substituting with non-dairy milk and butter. Always check product labels to ensure they’re suitable for your dietary needs.

How can I make my donuts more flavorful?
You can customize your Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts by adding spices like nutmeg or pumpkin spice to the batter, or by incorporating chocolate chips for a sweet twist! Additionally, consider experimenting with your cinnamon-sugar coating by mixing in some brown sugar for that deeper flavor profile. The more the merrier!