If you’re looking for a delightful twist on traditional muffins that captures all the cozy warmth of a fairground treat, the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe is about to become your new favorite. These muffins boast a tender crumb bathed in a buttery cinnamon sugar coating that’s perfectly crispy on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth soft on the inside. Whether you want a comforting breakfast, an afternoon snack, or an irresistible dessert, this recipe delivers that classic cinnamon sugar flavor with an easy muffin format that anyone can whip up in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the fluffy texture the flour and baking powder create to the warm spice of cinnamon and the rich moisture from butter and milk. Every item contributes to creating muffins that taste like they just came from a bakery, but you made them in your own kitchen.
- 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and base for the muffins.
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: Gives the muffins lift and fluffiness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses that warm, iconic donut spice flavor right into the batter.
- â…“ cup (75g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled: Adds richness and tenderness.
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the muffins subtly so they’re not overpowering.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and helps with texture.
- ½ cup (120ml) whole milk: Keeps the batter moist and tender.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Boosts sweetness with a warm, aromatic note.
- ¼ cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted (for coating): Ensures the cinnamon sugar sticks beautifully for that perfect crust.
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar (for coating): Provides the crunchy texture and sweet coating.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating): Creates the signature cinnamon sugar crust that makes these muffins addicting.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Muffin Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because a hot oven ensures your muffins rise perfectly and bake evenly. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with liners or grease it thoroughly to prevent sticking — nobody wants to struggle to get their muffin out!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Combining these dry ingredients first ensures that the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the batter, so every bite has that delightful hint of spice. This simple step sets the stage for a perfectly flavored muffin base.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the melted and cooled butter with the granulated sugar until smooth and glossy. Then add the egg, whole milk, and vanilla extract, blending everything together well. The wet ingredients bring moisture and richness, balancing the dry mix and preventing any dryness in your finished muffins.
Step 4: Combine Batter
Pour the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients and stir gently until just combined. It’s important not to overmix here — a few lumps are totally fine! Overworking the batter can develop gluten, making muffins tough when all you want is soft, tender bites that melt on your tongue.
Step 5: Fill Muffin Tin and Bake
Spoon the batter evenly into your prepared muffin tin cups, filling each about three-quarters full to give them room to rise without spilling over. Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 18 to 22 minutes. The muffins are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. You’ll know the muffins are perfectly fluffy and baked through.
Step 6: Cool Slightly
Once your muffins are out of the oven, let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. This makes them easier to handle without breaking apart. Then transfer them to a cooling rack for a few more minutes. Cooling just enough keeps them warm enough to absorb that luscious cinnamon sugar coating.
Step 7: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
Brush each warm muffin with the extra melted butter — this is what helps the cinnamon sugar stick to their surfaces. Then roll the muffins in the cinnamon sugar mixture until they’re coated completely. This final step creates the unmistakable crisp, sweet, and spicy crust that makes this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe unforgettable.
Step 8: Serve
Serve your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins warm for the ultimate melty, soft experience. They’re also delicious at room temperature, making them perfect for packing in lunches or enjoying with a cozy cup of coffee anytime.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a little extra flair is always fun. For garnishes, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar for a pretty snowy effect, or even a drizzle of warm honey or maple syrup to amplify the sweetness. A dollop of whipped cream or a smear of cream cheese frosting can also turn these muffins into an indulgent treat perfect for brunch.
Side Dishes
These muffins shine brilliantly alongside hot beverages like coffee, chai tea, or a rich hot chocolate. For breakfast, pair them with fresh fruit or yogurt to balance the sweetness and keep your meal fresh and vibrant. They also make a sweet counterpoint to savory breakfasts like bacon or sausage.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn these into mini dessert delights by serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Alternatively, slice them in half, toast lightly, and add a smear of fruit jam or nut butter for an appealing textural contrast. Whatever you choose, these Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins are as versatile as they are delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After making the Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. The cinnamon sugar coating might soften slightly, but the flavors remain delicious. For longer freshness, refrigeration works but can dry them out, so reheat gently before enjoying.
Freezing
If you want to keep your muffins fresh for a longer period, freezing is a great option. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the microwave or oven.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly-baked texture and warmth, reheat your cinnamon sugar-coated muffins in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5–7 minutes or pop them in the microwave for 15–20 seconds. This revives the crispy cinnamon sugar crust and makes the inside tender and inviting again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
All-purpose flour works best for the right texture in these Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins. Using whole wheat or gluten-free flours will change the consistency and may require adjustments in liquid or baking time.
Is it necessary to coat the muffins with butter before the cinnamon sugar?
Yes, the melted butter acts like an adhesive that lets the cinnamon sugar mixture stick perfectly to each muffin, giving that signature crust. Skipping the butter will cause the sugar to slide off and lose that classic texture.
Can I make these muffins dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and use almond, oat, or soy milk in place of whole milk. The flavor will still be wonderful and the texture moist.
How do I prevent the muffins from drying out?
Be careful not to overmix the batter and don’t overbake. Also, storing them properly in airtight containers and reheating gently helps retain moisture for a tender, soft muffin.
Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?
Definitely! Adding a handful of chopped nuts or mini chocolate chips into the batter before baking adds extra texture and flavor. Just fold them gently into the batter before filling your muffin cups.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe is a wonderful way to bring those festive, nostalgic flavors right into your own kitchen with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. Soft, warm on the inside and perfectly crusted with cinnamon sugar, these muffins are sure to become a beloved staple for breakfasts, snacks, and dessert moments alike. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and share the joy it brings to your table!
Print
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 muffins
- Category: Breakfast, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins offer a delightful twist on classic muffins by coating them in a buttery cinnamon sugar mixture, delivering a soft, tender crumb with a sweet and crunchy topping that mimics the flavor of donuts. Perfect for breakfast or an indulgent snack, they come together quickly and bake to a golden perfection.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- â…“ cup (75g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup (120ml) whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- ¼ cup (56g) unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin by lining it with paper liners or greasing it well to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon until evenly combined.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the melted and cooled butter with granulated sugar until smooth. Add in the egg, whole milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until the batter is uniform and creamy.
- Combine batter: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the muffins tender.
- Fill and bake: Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about three-quarters full. Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool slightly: Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool further but remain warm enough for coating.
- Coat in cinnamon sugar: Brush each warm muffin generously with melted butter, then roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture made from granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until fully coated.
- Serve: Enjoy these donut-inspired muffins warm for the best flavor and texture, or at room temperature as a delicious treat any time of day.
Notes
- Use room temperature egg for better mixing and texture.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid tough muffins.
- If you prefer less sugar, reduce cinnamon sugar coating quantity accordingly.
- These muffins can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
