There is something absolutely magical about a warm, sugary donut that melts in your mouth, and this Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Recipe captures that magic perfectly. These donuts are tender, fluffy, and generously coated in a perfect blend of cinnamon and sugar, creating a nostalgic treat that’s both simple and irresistible. Whether you’re craving a sweet breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a cozy dessert, this recipe hits all the right notes with its easy preparation and delightful flavor harmony.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Recipe lies in its straightforward list of ingredients — simple pantry staples that come together to create something truly special. Each ingredient is chosen to lend just the right texture, flavor, and richness needed to make these donuts absolutely delectable.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (120g): Provides the structure and base of the donut batter, ensuring tenderness and a soft crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the donuts rise beautifully, resulting in a light and fluffy texture.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy depth that perfectly complements the sugar coating.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors in the batter.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (60g): Brings richness and moisture for a tender, melt-in-your-mouth bite.
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar (67g): Sweetens the donuts just right without overpowering the cinnamon flavor.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds to the light texture.
- ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (120g): Adds a subtle tang and keeps the donuts soft and moist.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor and adds a lovely aromatic touch.
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (60g) – for coating: Helps the cinnamon sugar stick perfectly to each donut.
- ½ cup granulated sugar (100g) – for coating: Combined with cinnamon to create that irresistible crunchy exterior.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – for coating: Infuses each donut with a classic cinnamon kick on the outside.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, get your oven warmed up to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard donut pan thoroughly so none of those delicious donuts stick—this little step makes a huge difference when it comes time to pop them out perfectly.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-size bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Combining these beforehand ensures your donuts have an even rise and consistent flavor.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Now, in a separate bowl, whisk the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Adding the egg, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and vanilla extract one by one, continue whisking until the wet mixture is luscious and creamy. This mix is where your donuts get a lovely richness and tenderness.
Step 4: Make the Batter
Carefully add your dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir gently. Be sure not to overmix; a few lumps are totally fine and help keep the donuts light and tender. This is what makes the difference between dense and airy donuts.
Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan
Transfer the batter to a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off—this makes filling the donut cavities clean and easy. Pipe the batter into each section about three-quarters full, giving your donuts enough room to puff up nicely while baking.
Step 6: Bake the Donuts
Pop that pan into the oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the donuts spring back to a gentle touch. Let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack, just enough so they firm up a little but remain warm.
Step 7: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
Here comes the fun part—the signature cinnamon sugar coating! Mix the cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl. Dip each warm donut in melted butter, then dunk it in the cinnamon sugar mix, rolling it around until it’s perfectly coated. This gives each donut that irresistible sweet crunch outside with soft, fluffy goodness inside.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Whether you eat them warm or let them cool completely, these cinnamon sugar donuts are a pure delight. Serve them fresh to enjoy their full flavor and texture!
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Recipe
Garnishes
While these donuts shine on their own, don’t hesitate to add a few thoughtful garnishes to elevate your presentation. Fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar adds a pop of color and freshness that pairs beautifully with the warm cinnamon sugar crust. For a touch of indulgence, try drizzling with a little honey or melted chocolate.
Side Dishes
Serving these cinnamon sugar donuts alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or spiced chai tea creates a cozy taste experience. For a heartier brunch, pair them with scrambled eggs or fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness with something savory and refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests? Arrange the donuts in a circular pattern on a pretty serving plate with a small bowl of cinnamon-spiced cream cheese dip in the center for dipping. Or stack them bonafide bakery style, sprinkling extra cinnamon sugar between layers for both visual appeal and an added crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any donuts left over (which might be hard!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them moist and soft without compromising the crispy cinnamon sugar coating.
Freezing
To enjoy these donuts later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a resealable freezer bag. They freeze well for up to one month, perfect for a future treat whenever the craving strikes.
Reheating
To bring frozen or leftover donuts back to life, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 to 7 minutes. This restores that fresh-baked texture and taste. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the donuts gummy.
FAQs
Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely! Plain Greek yogurt is a perfect substitute for sour cream in this Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Recipe. It adds a similar tang and moisture, keeping your donuts soft and flavorful.
Do I have to use a donut pan?
While a donut pan is ideal for shaping and baking these donuts perfectly, you can use a muffin tin for a similar result. The shape will be different, but the taste remains just as delightful.
Can I make these donuts gluten-free?
Yes! Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend as a substitute, ensuring it contains xanthan gum or another binder to mimic the texture gluten provides.
Why do the donuts need to be dipped in melted butter before the cinnamon sugar coating?
Dipping the warm donuts in melted butter acts like glue, helping the cinnamon sugar mixture stick beautifully to the surface for that perfect crunchy and sweet coating.
How do I know when the donuts are fully baked?
They’re done baking when the donuts spring back lightly when you press on them and a toothpick inserted in the thickest part comes out clean. Overbaking can dry them out, so keep an eye on the time.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Recipe is truly a winner that brings warmth, sweetness, and comfort right out of your oven. It’s simple enough for everyday baking yet special enough to share with loved ones. Give it a try, savor each bite, and make these donuts a cherished favorite in your home!
Print
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 24 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 donuts
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these homemade cinnamon sugar donuts, baked to perfection with a tender crumb and coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar blend. Perfect for breakfast or as a comforting snack, these donuts are easy to prepare and yield 6 to 8 delicious treats with a wonderful balance of cinnamon flavor and buttery sweetness.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (120g)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (60g) + additional ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (60g) for coating
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar (67g)
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (120g)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Topping
- ½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a standard donut pan by greasing it thoroughly and setting it aside to ensure the donuts don’t stick during baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined to create the dry mix for the batter.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the melted butter and granulated sugar together until smooth. Add the egg, sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt), and vanilla extract, mixing well to incorporate all wet ingredients evenly.
- Make the Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir gently until just combined. Take care not to overmix the batter to keep the donuts light and fluffy.
- Fill the Donut Pan: Transfer the batter into a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a corner cut off for easy piping. Pipe the batter into the donut pan cavities, filling about three-quarters full to allow room for rising.
- Bake: Place the donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when gently pressed. Once baked, cool the donuts in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool further.
- Coat in Cinnamon Sugar: In a bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the coating. Dip each slightly warm donut first in the melted butter, then roll generously in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
- Serve: Enjoy the cinnamon sugar donuts warm or allow them to cool completely. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Notes
- For a tangier flavor, use plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Ensure not to overmix the batter to avoid tough, dense donuts.
- If you don’t have a piping bag, use a zip-top bag with a corner cut off to fill the donut pan.
- Donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored airtight for up to 2 days.
- To reheat leftovers, warm briefly in the microwave for a soft, fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
