Cinnamon Sugar Donuts (Baked) Recipe

If you have a craving for something warm, comforting, and irresistibly sweet, these Cinnamon Sugar Donuts (Baked) are going to become your new obsession. Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy donut that’s perfectly baked, then coated in a generous layer of cinnamon sugar that gives each bite a tender crunch and a warm hug of flavor. These delights are incredibly simple to whip up, making them perfect for a breakfast treat that feels indulgent yet wholesome, or a cozy dessert after a long day. Whether you’re sharing with friends or savoring them all to yourself, Cinnamon Sugar Donuts (Baked) bring a delightful sparkle to any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward, but each one is crucial in crafting the perfect texture and sweet-spiced flavor of these Cinnamon Sugar Donuts (Baked). The balance between flour, leavening, and dairy ensures fluffiness, while the cinnamon sugar coating delivers that signature warmth and sparkle.

• Flour: 250 grams of all-purpose flour forms the soft, tender base of these donuts.
• Sugar: 50 grams mixed in the batter sweetens gently, while extra sugar is used for coating.
• Baking powder: 1 teaspoon provides lift for those fluffy bites.
• Baking soda: ½ teaspoon helps the donuts rise and keeps them light.
• Salt: ¼ teaspoon balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Milk: 125 milliliters adds moisture and richness.
• Egg: One egg binds everything together while contributing to fluffiness.
• Butter, melted: 50 grams gives the donuts a tender crumb and rich taste.
• Cinnamon sugar coating: ½ cup sugar combined with 1 teaspoon cinnamon creates that iconic, crunchy topping.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Donuts (Baked)

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C and greasing your donut pan carefully. Prepping the pan well ensures your donuts will release easily with that perfect round shape and a slightly crisp edge around the bottom.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, 50 grams of sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This combination creates the structure and rise your donuts need, while keeping the flavor balanced.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the milk, egg, and melted butter. The melted butter adds moisture and tenderness while the egg helps the donuts hold together beautifully.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture just until combined. Don’t overmix here — a few small lumps are okay! This careful mixing ensures your donuts stay light and fluffy once baked.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Spoon the batter into your prepared donut pan. Fill each cavity roughly three-quarters full. This helps the donuts expand evenly without spilling over.

Step 6: Bake and Coat

Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the donuts have risen and look lightly golden. Remove while still warm and roll each donut in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This warm coating sticks beautifully, giving each donut that signature sweet and spicy crunch.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Donuts (Baked)

Garnishes

While the cinnamon sugar coating alone is a showstopper, you can elevate these Cinnamon Sugar Donuts (Baked) with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of honey, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Adding a few fresh berries on the side adds a fresh contrast that brightens every bite.

Side Dishes

Pair your baked donuts with a hot cup of coffee, freshly brewed tea, or a steaming mug of hot chocolate for the ultimate cozy experience. If you want to keep things light, a simple bowl of fresh fruit or yogurt complements the sweetness nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, stack the donuts on a pretty cake stand and place cinnamon sticks as decoration around the base. You can even thread them onto skewers for a fun donut kabob snack at parties. For kids, a small dipping bowl filled with warmed chocolate or caramel sauce makes for an interactive and delicious twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. The cinnamon sugar coating is best fresh, so enjoy them quickly to get the full crunchy flavor experience.

Freezing

You can freeze these baked donuts, but it’s best to do so before coating them with cinnamon sugar. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to one month, then thaw completely and roll in cinnamon sugar before serving.

Reheating

To bring the donuts back to their soft, warm glory, pop them into a preheated oven at 160°C for around 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that cinnamon sugar coating crispy and delightful.

FAQs

Can I make these donuts without a donut pan?

Yes! If you don’t have a donut pan, try using a muffin tin and create a hole in the center using a small spoon or piping bag after baking. The texture will remain soft and fluffy, just shaped differently.

Are Cinnamon Sugar Donuts (Baked) gluten-free?

This recipe uses regular all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking to make it gluten-friendly.

Can I use non-dairy milk for these donuts?

Absolutely! Almond, soy, or oat milk works well in place of cow’s milk and won’t compromise the taste or texture much.

How do I prevent the donuts from sticking to the pan?

Be sure to grease your donut pan thoroughly with butter or nonstick spray, and for extra security, lightly dust it with flour or use a silicone pan.

Can I add flavors like vanilla or nutmeg?

Yes, adding 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg to the batter can add a lovely depth to the flavor. Just be careful not to overpower the classic cinnamon sugar taste.

Final Thoughts

These Cinnamon Sugar Donuts (Baked) are truly a little bite of happiness baked right in your kitchen. They hit that perfect balance between soft, fluffy, and crisp with every sweet, cinnamon-kissed bite. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe soon — your mornings (or dessert times) will thank you for the cozy, delicious joy these donuts bring.