Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Quick & Delicious Treats

If you’re craving something soft, sweet, and downright irresistible, Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are just what you need. These delightful treats whip up in minutes and offer a perfect balance of cozy cinnamon spice and sugary sweetness that will satisfy your sweet tooth any time of the day. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, need a quick dessert, or want something special to enjoy with your morning coffee, this recipe is a fuss-free way to bring joy to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy Satisfaction: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for last-minute cravings or busy mornings.
• Simple Ingredients: Made from pantry staples, so no complicated shopping needed.
• Soft & Fluffy Texture: Achieves that melt-in-your-mouth donut feel without deep frying.
• Customizable Flavor: Easily adjusted with different spices or toppings to suit your taste.
• Great for All Skill Levels: Whether you’re a baking newbie or a seasoned pro, you’ll nail this recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its simplicity—every ingredient plays a crucial role in creating that perfect donut: soft, flavorful, and coated with just the right amount of cinnamon sugar.

• Flour: Provides the base and structure for tender donuts.
• Baking Powder: Helps the donuts rise and stay fluffy.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning.
• Cinnamon: Infuses that warm, aromatic flavor synonymous with these donuts.
• Milk: Moistens the dough, contributing to softness.
• Egg: Binds ingredients together and adds richness.
• Butter: Adds moisture and buttery flavor for a rich bite.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor with subtle sweetness.
• Cinnamon Sugar Coating: A blend of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon to roll the donuts in right after baking.

Variations for Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Feel free to put your own spin on these Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts—the recipe is incredibly versatile and adapts easily to dietary preferences or what you have available in your kitchen.

• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk, flax eggs, and dairy-free butter for a vegan-friendly treat.
• Spice It Up: Add nutmeg, cloves, or cardamom to the dough for an extra layer of warmth.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Top with melted chocolate or a simple glaze for an indulgent twist.
• Fruit-Infused: Mix in mashed bananas or applesauce to add moisture and flavor.

How to Make Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a donut pan to ensure your donuts come out smooth and hold their shape perfectly without sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, sugar, and cinnamon. This combination will give your donuts the perfect rise and flavor.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat together milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined. This ensures even distribution of moisture and flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts tender and light.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Carefully spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan cavities, filling each about 3/4 full to allow space for rising.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the donuts are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let them cool slightly before handling.

Step 7: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

While the donuts are still warm, brush them lightly with melted butter then roll in cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated for that signature sweet and spicy finish.

Pro Tips for Making Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

• Don’t Overmix: Combine ingredients just until blended to keep your donuts tender.
• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the batter mix evenly and results in a smoother texture.
• Brush with Butter Quickly: Applying cinnamon sugar while the donuts are warm helps it stick better.
• Experiment with Coatings: Try adding powdered sugar or glaze for variety.
• Check Oven Temperature: An accurate oven temperature ensures even baking and prevents dryness.

How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey or chocolate sauce to make these donuts look as amazing as they taste. Fresh fruit slices or a dollop of whipped cream also make lovely garnishes.

Side Dishes

Enjoy your Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts alongside hot coffee, tea, or a chilled glass of milk for a classic pairing. For a complete brunch, serve with fresh fruit salad or yogurt parfaits.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the donuts on a tiered platter for a party, or place them in cute individual paper muffin liners for grab-and-go treats. You can even create a donut board with various toppings and dips for an interactive experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Store away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness and softness.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to eat.

Reheating

Warm donuts slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for 5 minutes to bring back that just-out-of-the-oven feeling. You can re-coat with a bit of cinnamon sugar if needed.

FAQs

Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?

Yes! This Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts recipe is designed for baking, offering a healthier and quicker alternative to traditional fried donuts without sacrificing flavor or texture.

What pan do I need to make these donuts?

A donut pan is ideal to achieve the classic donut shape, but you can also use a muffin tin and create a hole in each cooked donut if you prefer.

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour with a high-quality gluten-free flour blend, and adjust moisture if needed to keep the batter consistency smooth.

How long do these donuts stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts stay fresh for up to 2 days, perfect for quick snacking over a couple of days.

Can I add frosting or glaze instead of cinnamon sugar?

Definitely. While the cinnamon sugar coating is classic, you can customize with a simple powdered sugar glaze, chocolate drizzle, or even cream cheese frosting for a different flavor twist.

Final Thoughts

Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are a delightful, quick treat that brings a comforting sweetness to any time of day. Their soft texture, warm cinnamon flavor, and straightforward preparation make them a go-to recipe for both beginners and seasoned home bakers. So grab your ingredients and enjoy the cozy magic of these homemade donuts—they’re sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

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