If you love the comforting flavor of classic donuts but want something easier to make at home, these cinnamon sugar donut muffins are the perfect solution. Soft, fluffy, and coated in sweet cinnamon sugar, they deliver that nostalgic donut taste without any frying.
What makes these muffins special is their texture. They’re light and tender on the inside, with a buttery exterior that holds onto the cinnamon sugar beautifully. Fresh out of the oven, they fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that instantly feels like home.
At Top Recipes Day, we focus on desserts that are approachable yet irresistible. These donut muffins are ideal for dessert, afternoon treats, or even a sweet breakfast moment. They’re simple enough for beginners and satisfying enough to become a repeat favorite.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect for Any Occasion
- No frying required
- Soft, fluffy donut-like texture
- Made with pantry ingredients
- Perfect for sharing or gifting
- Loved by kids and adults alike
Ingredients List
For the Muffins:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Muffin tin
- Paper liners
- Pastry brush
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a muffin tin. - Mix dry ingredients
In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. - Mix wet ingredients
In another bowl, whisk milk, oil, egg, and vanilla. - Combine
Gently mix wet ingredients into dry ingredients until just combined. - Fill the muffin tin
Divide batter evenly among muffin cups. - Bake
Bake for 15–18 minutes until lightly golden. - Prepare coating
Mix sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. - Coat muffins
Brush warm muffins with melted butter, then roll in cinnamon sugar.
Pro Cooking Tips
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep muffins soft
- Coat muffins while warm for best sugar adhesion
- Use nutmeg for authentic donut flavor
- Store uncoated muffins and coat before serving for freshness
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Chocolate version: Add chocolate chips
- Dairy-free: Use plant-based milk and butter
- Extra spice: Add a pinch of cloves
- Mini muffins: Reduce baking time
- Glazed: Drizzle with vanilla glaze instead of sugar
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
- Room temperature: Store in airtight container for 2 days
- Refrigerator: Store up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze uncoated muffins for up to 2 months
- Reheating: Warm briefly before coating
Nutrition & Health Benefits
These muffins offer a balanced indulgence:
- Portion-controlled dessert option
- No deep frying required
- Can be made lighter with reduced sugar
- Satisfying sweet treat with simple ingredients
Nutrition values are approximate and vary by portion size.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do these muffins taste like donuts?
Yes, the texture and cinnamon sugar coating mimic classic donuts.
2. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, bake ahead and coat before serving.
3. Why are my muffins dry?
Overbaking or overmixing can cause dryness.
4. Can I skip nutmeg?
Yes, but it adds classic donut flavor.
5. Can I bake these in a donut pan?
Yes, adjust baking time slightly.
Final Thoughts
These soft cinnamon sugar donut muffins are the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. They deliver classic donut flavor in an easy, homemade form that anyone can make.
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At Top Recipes Day, we believe desserts should be joyful, simple, and shareable. If you try this recipe, leave a comment below and let us know how they turned out. Be sure to explore more sweet and dessert recipes on the site for even more delicious inspiration.
