Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins Easy and Soft Recipe

Are you ready to indulge in a warm, sweet treat? This easy recipe for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins is your ticket to baking happiness! I’ll show you how to create soft muffins that taste just like donuts, minus the fuss. With simple ingredients and clear steps, you’ll have these delightful muffins ready to devour in no time. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure and make your kitchen smell amazing!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients for Muffins

– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

– 1 cup granulated sugar

– 1 tablespoon baking powder

– ½ teaspoon salt

– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1 large egg

– ½ cup whole milk

– ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

To make the muffins, I use all-purpose flour. It gives the muffins a great texture. Granulated sugar adds sweetness. Baking powder helps the muffins rise. Salt enhances the flavor. Ground cinnamon gives that warm, cozy taste. A large egg binds everything together. Whole milk keeps the muffins moist. Unsalted butter adds richness. Vanilla extract brings depth to the flavor.

Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Coating

– ½ cup granulated sugar

– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

– ¼ cup melted butter (for coating)

For the cinnamon sugar coating, I mix granulated sugar with ground cinnamon. This gives a sweet and spicy finish. I use melted butter to help the sugar stick to the muffins. The coating makes each bite a treat. You can dip the muffins twice for more flavor. It turns a simple muffin into a delightful dessert!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Oven and Muffin Tin

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. While the oven warms up, grease a standard muffin tin. You can also use muffin liners. This makes it easier to remove the muffins later.

Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients. Add 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisk these together until they are well mixed. This blends the flavors and helps the muffins rise.

Mixing Wet Ingredients and Combining

In another bowl, beat 1 large egg. Then, add ½ cup of whole milk, ⅓ cup of melted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix these wet ingredients until they are fully combined. Next, pour the wet mix into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. It’s okay if there are some lumps; avoid overmixing.

Baking the Muffins

Now it’s time to fill the muffin tins. Divide the batter evenly among the cups, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake in your preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean, your muffins are ready.

Coating the Muffins

While the muffins bake, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating. In a small bowl, mix together ½ cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Once the muffins are done, cool them in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, remove them from the tin. Dip the tops in ¼ cup of melted butter, then coat them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. If you want a sweeter treat, dip the muffins a second time!

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring Soft and Fluffy Muffins

To achieve soft and fluffy muffins, you must avoid overmixing the batter. When you mix too much, the muffins can become dense. Stir the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. A few lumps are fine.

Correctly measuring flour is also key. Use a spoon to scoop the flour into your measuring cup, and then level it off with a knife. This method prevents packed flour, which can lead to heavy muffins.

Enhancing Flavor

If you want to boost the flavor, consider adding spices or extracts. A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can elevate the taste. You can also try using almond extract instead of vanilla for a unique twist.

Baking Consistency

Baking time can vary by oven type. If you have a convection oven, check your muffins a few minutes early. Convection ovens bake more evenly and quickly. Always use a toothpick to test for doneness. Insert it into the center of a muffin; it should come out clean. Adjust your baking time as needed to get perfect muffins every time.

Variations

Flavor Add-ins

You can customize your cinnamon sugar donut muffins with fun add-ins. Here are a few ideas:

– Chocolate chips: Stir in a half cup of chocolate chips to add a sweet twist. The melting chocolate makes each bite extra special.

– Nuts: Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch. Add about a half cup for great flavor and texture.

– Different spices: Try adding nutmeg or allspice for a warm, cozy taste. Just a pinch can elevate the flavor profile.

Healthier Substitutes

Want to make your muffins a bit healthier? Here are some simple swaps:

– Whole wheat flour: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This adds fiber and nutrients. Keep the same amount in the recipe.

– Alternative sweeteners: Consider using honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar. These natural sweeteners offer a different flavor and can be healthier options.

Gluten-Free Options

If you need gluten-free muffins, don’t worry. You can still enjoy this recipe with some changes:

– Gluten-free flour blends: Use a good gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it has a mix of flours and starches for the best results. Follow the same measurements as in the recipe for all-purpose flour.

These variations let you enjoy your cinnamon sugar donut muffins in many ways. Get creative and find what you love best!

Storage Info

Best Storage Practices

To keep your cinnamon sugar donut muffins fresh, store them at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. This method keeps them soft and tasty for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing. Wrap each muffin in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can last for about three months in the freezer.

Reheating Tips

When you want to enjoy your muffins again, reheating is key. You can use an oven or a microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the muffins on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes. This will bring back their soft texture and warm flavor. If you use a microwave, heat them for about 10-15 seconds. This method works well for quick bites. Enjoy your muffins warm and fresh!

FAQs

Can I make these muffins ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these muffins ahead of time. Bake them and let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

How do I know when the muffins are done baking?

You can tell the muffins are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. They should also have a nice golden color on top. If they look too pale, give them a few more minutes.

What is the best way to coat the muffins in cinnamon sugar?

To coat the muffins, first, melt some butter in a small bowl. After the muffins cool in the pan for five minutes, dip the tops in the melted butter. Then, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mix. For a thicker coating, dip them a second time!

Can I substitute the milk in the recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of milk. Almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk work well. Just be sure to use the same amount as in the recipe. This keeps the muffins moist and soft.

How can I make these muffins dairy-free?

To make these muffins dairy-free, substitute the whole milk with a plant-based milk. Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter in place of unsalted butter. Follow the recipe as usual, and you’ll have tasty dairy-free muffins!

These muffins use simple ingredients for great taste. We discussed main ingredients, how to mix them, and bake them just right. I shared tips to make your muffins soft and fluffy. You can even try fun variations like chocolate chips or healthier options.

Remember, baking is all about having fun and experimenting. So, enjoy your muffin-making journey and don’t be afraid to get creativ