Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Recipe

Introduction

Baking has always been a cherished activity in my home, especially when it involves the sweet aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through the air. Recently, I decided to whip up a batch of Cinnamon Sugar Donuts, and the results were nothing short of heavenly. My family was captivated by the warm, sugary scent that filled our kitchen, and the moment the donuts came out of the oven, they eagerly gathered around to sample the treats. Each bite revealed a fluffy interior with a delightful cinnamon sweetness, making them a perfect addition to our weekend brunch. These donuts are not just a treat; they are a celebration of comfort and joy, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Ingredients

For the Donuts

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (🌾)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder (🧂)
• ½ teaspoon baking soda (🧂)
• ½ teaspoon salt (🧂)
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (🌟)
• ½ cup granulated sugar (🍬)
• 2 large eggs (🥚)
• ¾ cup buttermilk (or milk with ½ teaspoon vinegar) (🥛)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (🧈)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (🍦)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• ½ cup granulated sugar (🍬)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (🌟)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with non-stick spray to prevent sticking. 🍩

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This will ensure that all the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour. Set aside. 🥣

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat together the granulated sugar and eggs until well combined and slightly frothy. Add in the buttermilk (or milk mixed with vinegar), melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until the mixture is smooth and cohesive. 🥄

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense donuts. The batter should be thick but smooth. 🍪

Fill the Pan

Transfer the batter to a piping bag or a ziplock bag with one corner snipped off. Pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full to allow for rising. 🌟

Bake

Place the donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. ⏳

Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the coating. This simple mixture will add a delightful crunch and flavor to the warm donuts. 🍬

Coat the Donuts

While the donuts are still warm, toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until well coated. This will create a deliciously sweet and spicy exterior that complements the fluffy interior. 🍩

Enjoy!

Serve these delightful Cinnamon Sugar Donuts warm or at room temperature. They make a perfect breakfast treat or a delightful snack any time of day! 🎉

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12 donuts
• Calories per donut: Approximately 180 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes

How to Serve

• Freshly Baked: Serve warm right after coating in cinnamon sugar.
• With Coffee or Tea: Pair with your favorite hot beverage for a cozy treat.
• As a Breakfast Option: Perfect alongside fresh fruit or yogurt.
• For a Sweet Snack: Ideal for afternoon tea or a midday pick-me-up.
• Garnished: Drizzle with icing or a chocolate glaze for extra sweetness.

Additional Tips

1. Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients to keep the donuts fluffy.
2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for better mixing.
3. Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground cinnamon enhances flavor; consider grinding your own for the best taste.
4. Experiment with Flavors: Add nutmeg or vanilla bean for an extra layer of flavor.
5. Make a Glaze: For a different twist, make a simple glaze with powdered sugar and milk for drizzling.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Cinnamon Donuts: Add ¼ cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a chocolatey twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Maple Donuts: Replace granulated sugar with maple sugar for a unique flavor.
• Fruit-Infused: Add mashed bananas or applesauce to the batter for added moisture and flavor.
• Filled Donuts: Inject the donuts with jam or cream filling after baking for a surprise treat.

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast Treat: Serve with a side of scrambled eggs and bacon for a hearty breakfast.
• Picnic Snack: Pack them for a sweet addition to any picnic.
• Party Dessert: Arrange on a platter for a colorful dessert display at gatherings.
• Gift Idea: Box them up and give as homemade gifts during the holidays.
• Kid-Friendly: Let kids help in coating the donuts in cinnamon sugar for a fun activity.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Freeze uncoated donuts in a single layer, then transfer to a ziplock bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and coat with cinnamon sugar before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

• Yes, you can use regular milk with a little vinegar added for acidity.

1. How do I know when the donuts are done?

• A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean when they are ready.

1. Can I make the batter in advance?

• It’s best to bake the donuts immediately after preparing the batter for the best texture.

1. What if I don’t have a donut pan?

• You can use a muffin pan to make donut muffins instead!

1. How can I make these donuts healthier?

• Substitute some of the sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

1. What can I use instead of eggs?

• Applesauce or flaxseed meal mixed with water can be a great egg substitute.

1. Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?

• Absolutely! Fold in chocolate chips for extra sweetness.

1. How should I store leftover donuts?

• Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life.

1. Can I glaze these donuts instead of coating them in sugar?

• Yes, a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk can be drizzled on top.

1. How do I ensure my donuts are fluffy?
   • Avoid overmixing the batter and ensure the oven is preheated before baking.

Conclusion

These Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are more than just a sweet treat; they embody warmth, comfort, and a touch of nostalgia. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a cozy weekend morning, these donuts are sure to bring smiles to faces and happiness to hearts. Easy to make and deliciously satisfying, they are a delightful way to celebrate everyday moments. So gather your loved ones, whip up a batch, and enjoy the joy of baking together!

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