Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins Tasty and Easy Recipe

If you love warm, sweet treats, you’ll adore these Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins! This easy recipe combines the soft, fluffy texture of muffins with the delightful taste of classic cinnamon donuts. In just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch that’s perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack. Trust me, once you try them, these muffins will become your new favorite! Let’s dive into the details!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients Needed

To make these delicious Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins, you will need:

– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

– 1 tsp baking powder

– ½ tsp baking soda

– ½ tsp salt

– ½ tsp ground cinnamon

– ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

– ¾ cup granulated sugar (plus extra for coating)

– 1 large egg

– 1 tsp vanilla extract

– ½ cup buttermilk

– ¼ cup granulated sugar (for coating)

– 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for coating)

– 2 tbsp melted butter (for coating)

Substitutions for Common Ingredients

You can swap some ingredients for others if needed:

– Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.

– Replace buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a little vinegar or lemon juice.

– If you’re dairy-free, try coconut oil or a vegan butter for the unsalted butter.

– For a lighter sweetener, use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar.

Measuring Tips for Accurate Results

Accurate measuring is key to great muffins. Here are some tips:

– Use a dry measuring cup for flour. Spoon flour into the cup and level it off with a knife.

– For sugar, scoop it lightly and level it off without packing it down.

– When measuring liquids, use a clear liquid measuring cup. Check the level at eye level to be precise.

– Always sift dry ingredients if the recipe calls for it. This helps avoid lumps and ensures even mixing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation and Preheating

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your muffins bake evenly. Next, prepare a standard muffin tin. You can grease it lightly with butter or use paper liners. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Mixing Dry and Wet Ingredients Separately

In a medium bowl, mix your dry ingredients. Combine 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisk them together until well blended. In a larger bowl, cream together ¼ cup of softened unsalted butter and ¾ cup of granulated sugar. Beat this mixture for 2-3 minutes until it is light and fluffy. Add 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until everything is smooth. Gradually add the dry mixture and ½ cup of buttermilk, alternating between them. Mix gently until just combined. A few lumps are fine.

Baking and Testing for Doneness

Fill each muffin cup about ⅔ full with batter. Bake in your preheated oven for 15-18 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. It should come out clean if the muffins are ready. While they bake, prepare your cinnamon sugar coating. In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. When the muffins are done, let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Brush the tops with melted butter, then dip them in the cinnamon sugar mix. Make sure they are well coated. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy the sweet smell as they cool! For the complete recipe, refer to the Full Recipe section.

Tips & Tricks

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking cinnamon sugar donut muffins, avoid overmixing your batter. Overmixing makes muffins tough. Mix just enough to combine the wet and dry ingredients. Another mistake is skipping the cooling step before coating. If you coat them too soon, the sugar won’t stick.

How to Achieve Perfectly Fluffy Muffins

To make your muffins fluffy, use fresh baking powder and baking soda. These ingredients help your muffins rise. Ensure your butter is at room temperature. Cold butter can lead to dense muffins. Lastly, don’t forget to alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk. This keeps your muffins light and airy.

Popular Baking Tools and Equipment

Having the right tools makes baking easier. Here are some must-haves:

– Muffin tin: A standard 12-cup muffin tin works best.

– Mixing bowls: Use at least two—one for dry and one for wet ingredients.

– Electric mixer: This saves time and helps achieve a fluffy texture.

– Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for great results.

– Wire rack: This allows muffins to cool evenly after baking.

With these tips, you’re ready to bake perfect cinnamon sugar donut muffins. For the full recipe, refer to the earlier section. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Variations

Flavor Variations

You can switch up the flavors in your donut muffins. Here are some fun ideas:

– Chocolate Chip: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter. This makes them rich and sweet.

– Pumpkin Spice: Substitute ½ cup of flour with ½ cup of pumpkin puree. Add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice for a fall twist.

– Lemon Zest: Mix in 1 tablespoon of lemon zest for a fresh taste. This adds a nice zing to your muffins.

Dietary Modifications

You can make these muffins fit different diets. Here’s how:

– Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This keeps the texture light.

– Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes.

– Dairy-Free: Swap buttermilk with almond milk and add a splash of lemon juice.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Serve these muffins warm for the best taste. Here are some ideas to enjoy them:

– With Coffee: Pair the muffins with a cup of coffee. The cinnamon flavor complements the coffee well.

– With Fruit: Serve with fresh fruit, like berries or bananas. This adds freshness to your snack.

– With Ice Cream: For a treat, top them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. This makes a fun dessert.

For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe].

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Muffins

Store your leftover muffins in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for 2 to 3 days. You can also wrap each muffin in plastic wrap for extra protection. If you live in a humid place, add a paper towel to absorb moisture.

Freezing Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins

To freeze these muffins, let them cool completely first. Then, wrap each muffin in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They will stay tasty for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw them in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Tips for Best Taste

Reheat your muffins for the best taste. You can use a microwave or an oven. If using a microwave, heat for 10-15 seconds. For the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C), and warm them for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps them soft and delicious. For added flavor, brush a little melted butter on top before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make these muffins ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these muffins ahead of time. I often bake them in advance for busy mornings. Once they cool, store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for about three days at room temperature. You can also freeze them for later. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before serving.

What is the difference between donut muffins and regular muffins?

Donut muffins are lighter and fluffier than regular muffins. They often have a sweet glaze or coating, like cinnamon sugar. This gives them a taste similar to donuts, making them a special treat. Regular muffins tend to be denser and less sweet. The texture and flavor make donut muffins unique.

How do I know when the muffins are done baking?

To check if the muffins are done, insert a toothpick into the center of one. If it comes out clean, they are ready. This simple test works well. You can also look for a golden color on top and a springy feel when you touch them.

Is it necessary to use buttermilk?

Buttermilk adds moisture and tang to the muffins. This helps them rise and stay soft. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute. Just mix one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before using. This will give your muffins a similar texture and flavor. For the full recipe, check the earlier section.

Full Recipe

Complete Recipe Overview

The Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins taste like a warm hug. They have a soft, fluffy texture. Each bite is full of sweet cinnamon goodness. This recipe is simple and perfect for any time of day. You can whip these up in just 30 minutes. They make a fun breakfast or snack. You can also share them with friends. The best part? You only need one bowl for mixing!

Nutritional Information

Each muffin has about 180 calories. They contain 6 grams of fat and 27 grams of carbs. You’ll also get 2 grams of protein from each muffin. This treat is not low in sugar, so enjoy it in moderation. If you want a healthier version, consider using whole wheat flour. You can also try using less sugar or a sugar substitute.

User Reviews and Ratings

People love these muffins! Many say they are easy to make and taste amazing. Users rave about how soft and moist they are. One home cook said, “These are my new favorite breakfast treat!” Another user commented, “The cinnamon sugar coating is a game changer!” You can find the full recipe on my blog to try these delightful muffins yourself!

We explored key ingredients for making delicious muffins. I shared measuring tips and tasty substitutions. Next, we dove into proper mixing and baking methods. I highlighted common mistakes to avoid and tools you might need. We even discussed fun muffin variations and storage tips.

Remember, baking is about enjoying the process. With these steps, you can create delightful muffins every time. Happy baking!

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins

Indulge in the sweet goodness of Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins with this easy recipe! Perfectly fluffy and coated in a delicious cinnamon sugar mix, these treats will become your new favorite snack. With just 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes total, you can delight your family with fresh-baked muffins any time. Click to discover the full recipe and bring a heavenly scent to your kitchen!

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Ingredients

  

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder

½ tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

½ tsp ground cinnamon

¼ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

¾ cup granulated sugar (plus extra for coating)

1 large egg

1 tsp vanilla extract

½ cup buttermilk

¼ cup granulated sugar (for coating)

1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for coating)

2 tbsp melted butter (for coating)

Instructions

 

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a standard muffin tin by greasing it lightly or lining it with paper muffin liners to prevent sticking.

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisk these dry ingredients together until evenly mixed and set aside.

In a separate large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and ¾ cup of granulated sugar together. Beat this mixture with an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes, or until it becomes light and fluffy.

Incorporate the large egg and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until the ingredients are fully combined and smooth.

Gradually add the reserved dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start with the dry ingredients and end with them, mixing just until combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if a few lumps remain.

Using a spoon or a scoop, fill each muffin cup in the prepared muffin tin with batter, ensuring that each cup is about ⅔ full.

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; it should come out clean when the muffins are ready.

While the muffins are baking, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating. In a small bowl, mix together ¼ cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon until well combined.

Once the muffins are finished baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. After cooling slightly, brush the tops of the muffins generously with melted butter. Immediately dip each muffin into the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring they are well coated on all sides.

Transfer the coated muffins to a wire rack to cool completely before serving, if you can resist the delicious aroma!

Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 30 mins | Servings: 12 muffins

- Presentation Tips: Arrange the muffins on a decorative plate, and consider sprinkling some extra cinnamon sugar around them for an added touch of elegance. Enjoy!