Description
These Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins combine the best of both worlds—soft, fluffy muffins coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar layer reminiscent of a warm, bakery-style cake donut. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an indulgent snack, these muffins are quick to make and fill your kitchen with a comforting, irresistible aroma.
Introduction
Crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with warm spice, these muffins are a nostalgic treat for any occasion. They are easy to prepare, and the cinnamon sugar topping gives them that classic donut flavor without the need for frying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft and fluffy texture like a donut.
- Sweet cinnamon sugar topping for an extra-special touch.
- Quick and easy to make—no frying required.
- Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack.
Ingredients (Makes 10–12 Muffins)
For the Muffins
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a muffin pan or line with paper liners.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Combine
Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined. Avoid overmixing.
5. Bake
Divide batter evenly among muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool Slightly
Let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
7. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
- Mix granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Brush each warm muffin top with melted butter.
- Dip or roll the muffin tops in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
8. Serve
Serve warm and enjoy the soft, spiced, donut-like texture.
Tips & Variations
- Extra Spice: Add ½ tsp ground cloves or ginger for a more autumnal flavor.
- Mini Muffins: Use a mini muffin pan for bite-sized treats; reduce baking time to 10–12 minutes.
- Storage: Keep muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds for a fresh-baked taste.
- Glaze Option: Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze for extra sweetness.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results.
Q: Can I use low-fat milk or a milk substitute?
A: Yes, almond milk, oat milk, or other milk alternatives work well.
Q: Can these muffins be frozen?
A: Yes, wrap cooled muffins individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q: Can I skip the cinnamon sugar topping?
A: Yes, the muffins are still delicious without it. You could also dust them lightly with powdered sugar.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins are a nostalgic, cozy treat that combines soft, spiced muffin batter with a sweet cinnamon sugar coating. Perfect for morning treats, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up, they bring the comforting flavors of a bakery-style donut right into your home. Serve warm and watch them disappear fast!