If you crave a sweet treat that’s simple to make, you've found it! These Cinnamon Sugar Baked Donuts are soft, fluffy, and oh-so-delicious. You can whip them up with just a few pantry staples. Perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack, they’ll have your home smelling wonderful. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s dive into this easy and fun recipe that you’ll love!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a warm, inviting flavor that is perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any special equipment, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
- Baked, Not Fried: These donuts are baked, which makes them a healthier alternative to traditional fried donuts without sacrificing taste.
- Customizable: You can easily add your favorite toppings or mix-ins, such as chocolate chips or nuts, to personalize these donuts to your liking.
Ingredients
Here are the simple ingredients you will need to make these delicious donuts:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus extra for coating)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating donuts)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating donuts)
Each ingredient plays a key role. The flour gives structure, while sugar adds sweetness. Baking powder and baking soda help the donuts rise. Cinnamon brings warm flavor, and buttermilk keeps them moist. The egg binds everything together. Melted butter adds richness, and vanilla gives a lovely aroma. Lastly, the cinnamon sugar coating creates a sweet finish. Enjoy these easy-to-make donuts!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease the donut pan.
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Make sure all dry ingredients blend well.
Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla. Mix until you see no lumps.
Combining Mixtures
- Pour the wet mix into the dry mix. Gently fold everything together. Stop mixing when you still see some lumps.
Baking Process
- Use a piping bag or spoon to fill each donut mold about 2/3 full.
- Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes. They should be golden brown and spring back when touched.
- Cool the donuts in the pan for 5 minutes before removing them.
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
- Ensuring even baking: To bake evenly, make sure to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). A hot oven helps the donuts rise and cook properly. Place the donut pan in the center of the oven. This allows for good airflow around the donuts.
- Checking for doneness: The donuts are done when they are golden brown and spring back when touched. You can also insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your donuts are ready.
Coating Tips
- Techniques for perfect cinnamon sugar coating: While the donuts are still warm, roll each one in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Make sure to coat all sides for the best flavor. You can also use a bowl to make this easier.
- Storing uncoated donuts: If you plan to coat donuts later, store them in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature to stay fresh. Coating them just before serving keeps the sugar from getting soggy.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, ensure your ground cinnamon is fresh. Spices lose potency over time, so check the expiration date.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts.
- Experiment with Toppings: Try adding a glaze or a drizzle of chocolate for a different flavor profile. You can also add sprinkles for a fun touch!
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep them fresh.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change the taste of your donuts easily. Adding nutmeg or cardamom gives a warm twist. Just use a pinch for a nice hint of spice.
If you love chocolate, try a chocolate glaze. Melt some chocolate and dip the warm donuts in it. For a vanilla glaze, mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla. Drizzle it over the donuts for a sweet touch.
Dietary Variations
If you need gluten-free donuts, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Many options work well and keep the texture light.
For a vegan version, you can use almond milk instead of buttermilk. Replace the egg with a flax egg. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with two and a half tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes to thicken. This will help bind your ingredients.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your baked donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps to prevent them from drying out. You can also wrap each donut in plastic wrap for extra protection. If you plan to eat them within a few days, this method works best. Donuts will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the fridge for up to a week.
Reheating Tips
When you're ready to enjoy your donuts again, reheating is simple. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the donuts on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5 minutes. This will help restore their soft texture and bring back that fresh-baked taste. If you’re in a rush, you can use the microwave. Heat each donut for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat them, or they may become tough.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can use regular milk. To mimic buttermilk, add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1/2 cup of milk. Let it sit for five minutes before using. This will give your donuts a nice tang.
How can I make these donuts without a donut pan?
If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin. Just fill each muffin cup about halfway. Bake for the same time, but check for doneness. You can also shape the dough into balls and bake them on a baking sheet.
Can the dough be made in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time. Mix the wet and dry ingredients, but do not bake yet. Cover the bowl and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, just fill the pan and bake as usual.
You now have a simple guide to make delicious baked donuts. We covered all the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and useful tips. You learned how to store and reheat them, plus some fun variations.
Baking your own donuts can be fun and satisfying. Create your favorite flavors and impress friends with your skills. Enjoy these treats fresh out of the oven or saved for later. Happy baking!
