The Best Fluffy Pancakes recipe you will fall in love with. Full of tips and tricks to help you make the best pancakes.
Imagine the irresistible aroma filling your kitchen – that’s the magic of these homemade Cinnamon Sugar Donuts. Fluffy, tender, and coated in a delicate balance of warm cinnamon and sweet sugar, they evoke pure comfort. These delightful rings are a true testament to simple pleasures, offering a perfect treat any time of day. Get ready to bake a batch of joy with this easy-to-follow recipe, bringing the beloved bakery classic right to your table.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are more than just a sweet treat; they’re a delightful experience. Here’s why you’ll adore making them:
- Irresistible Flavor: The classic combination of warm cinnamon and sweet sugar creates a nostalgic, comforting taste that truly satisfies.
- Simple & Quick: This recipe is incredibly straightforward, perfect for bakers of all skill levels, delivering delicious donuts with minimal fuss.
- Healthier Indulgence: Baked, not fried, these donuts offer a lighter alternative without compromising on that amazing texture and flavor.
- Plant-Based Friendly: Easily adaptable to be entirely vegan, aligning with a conscious and eco-responsible kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Crafting the perfect batch of Cinnamon Sugar Donuts starts with quality ingredients. Opt for organic and ethically sourced where possible to truly elevate the flavors and align with a mindful kitchen.
- For the Donuts:
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour (or whole wheat pastry flour for a fiber boost)
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar (organic cane sugar works beautifully)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (240ml) unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy are excellent choices)
- ½ cup (120ml) melted vegan butter or coconut oil, plus extra for coating
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Substitutions & Variations
As Hana, I always encourage creativity and mindful swaps in the kitchen, especially for our delicious Cinnamon Sugar Donuts! These suggestions not only cater to various dietary needs but also help prevent food waste by using what you have on hand.
Note: This video is for demonstration purposes and may use a slightly different method.
- Flour Alternatives: For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend that contains xanthan gum. You might also try half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose for a heartier texture.
- Sweetener Swaps: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a slightly less sweet, caramel-like note and a lower glycemic index. For the coating, a blend of coconut sugar and cinnamon is equally delightful.
- Dairy-Free Options: This recipe already prioritizes plant-based milks, but feel free to experiment with different varieties like cashew or hemp milk for subtle flavor changes. For the melted butter, any good quality vegan butter substitute or refined coconut oil works perfectly.
- Flavor Fusions: Introduce a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom into the batter for an extra layer of warmth. A zest of orange or lemon can add a bright, zesty contrast to the cinnamon.
- Anti-Waste Tip: If you have leftover mashed banana or applesauce, replace ¼ cup of the melted fat with either for added moisture and a slight reduction in fat. This is a wonderful way to use up overripe fruit!
- Mini Donuts: Instead of standard donuts, use a mini donut pan. Adjust baking time accordingly (usually 8-10 minutes). They make perfect bite-sized treats.
As Hana, I always encourage creativity and mindful swaps in the kitchen, especially for our delicious Cinnamon Sugar Donuts! Consider exploring this Homemade Sugar Donuts recipe that offers unique variations and ingredient alternatives.
Equipment You’ll Need
Having the right tools makes baking these incredible Cinnamon Sugar Donuts a breeze. You likely have most of these items already in your kitchen, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable baking process.
- Donut baking pan (standard 6-cavity or mini)
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula or wooden spoon
- Piping bag with a large round tip (optional, but highly recommended for neat filling)
- Wire cooling rack
- Small shallow dish or plate for the cinnamon sugar coating
- Pastry brush (for melting butter onto donuts)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Get ready to bake some magic! Follow these simple steps to create your perfect batch of homemade Cinnamon Sugar Donuts. The process is designed to be straightforward and rewarding.
- Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a donut baking pan with a little vegan butter or non-stick spray, ensuring every cavity is well-coated to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps and the ingredients are well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the plant-based milk, melted vegan butter (or coconut oil), and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Use a rubber spatula or wooden spoon to mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter; a few small lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to tough donuts.
- Fill Donut Pan: For neat and easy filling, transfer the donut batter into a piping bag fitted with a large round tip (or simply snip off a corner of the bag). Pipe the batter evenly into each donut cavity, filling them about two-thirds full. If you don’t have a piping bag, carefully spoon the batter into the cavities.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and spring back when lightly touched. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the donut pan from the oven and let the donuts cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. This allows them to firm up slightly before you handle them.
- Prepare Coating: While the donuts cool, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a shallow dish or plate for the coating.
- Coat the Donuts: Gently remove the warm donuts from the pan and place them on a wire cooling rack. Melt the remaining vegan butter in a small bowl. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush both sides of each warm donut with melted butter. Immediately, roll each donut in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated. The warmth and butter help the coating adhere beautifully.
- Serve & Enjoy: Arrange your freshly coated Cinnamon Sugar Donuts on a platter and serve warm. They are absolutely delightful right out of the oven!
Get ready to bake some magic! Follow these simple steps to create your perfect batch of homemade Cinnamon Sugar Donuts by checking out Perfect Homemade Baked Donuts for detailed guidance.
Pro Tips for Success
Elevate your homemade Cinnamon Sugar Donuts from good to absolutely incredible with these expert tips. Hana’s kitchen is all about precision and a touch of eco-consciousness!
- Do Not Overmix: This is crucial! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, leading to dense, tough donuts. Mix until just combined – a few lumps are fine.
- Use a Piping Bag: For perfectly shaped donuts and an easier, less messy filling process, transfer your batter into a piping bag. It ensures an even distribution and reduces air bubbles.
- Don’t Overfill the Pan: Fill each cavity about two-thirds full. This allows the donuts to rise properly without overflowing or losing their classic ring shape.
- Coat While Warm: The secret to a perfectly coated Cinnamon Sugar Donuts lies in coating them while they are still warm (but not piping hot). The residual heat and melted butter help the cinnamon sugar adhere beautifully.
- Adjust Cinnamon-Sugar Ratio: Feel free to adjust the ratio of cinnamon to sugar in the coating based on your preference. More cinnamon for a spicier kick, or more sugar for extra sweetness.
- Even Baking: If your oven has hot spots, rotate the donut pan halfway through the baking time for even golden results.
Storage & Reheating Tips
While these delicious Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly store them to savor their goodness later. Here’s how to keep them fresh and flavorful, embracing an anti-waste approach.
- Room Temperature: Store leftover Cinnamon Sugar Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1-2 days. The coating might slightly absorb moisture over time, but the donuts will still be delicious.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Note that refrigeration can alter the texture slightly, making them a bit denser.
- Freezing (Uncoated): For optimal freshness, freeze the baked (but uncoated) donuts. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze for an hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature, then warm slightly and coat with fresh cinnamon sugar. This is a great way to have fresh Cinnamon Sugar Donuts on demand!
- Reheating: To revive stored donuts, warm them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds (be careful not to overheat, or they can become chewy) or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes until just warmed through. If they’ve lost some of their coating sparkle, a quick re-roll in cinnamon sugar is always an option.
While these delicious Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly store them to savor their goodness later. Learn how to store your treats properly with the tips provided in this guide on storing Apple Cider Donuts.
What to Serve With This Recipe
These warm, delightful Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are a treat on their own, but pairing them thoughtfully can elevate the experience. As Hana, I love complementing sweet indulgence with fresh, vibrant, and plant-based elements for a balanced and colorful spread.
- Fresh Fruit Platter: A colorful assortment of berries, sliced kiwi, or melon provides a light, refreshing contrast to the sweet donuts.
- Plant-Based Yogurt: Serve alongside a dollop of unsweetened plant-based yogurt (coconut, almond, or soy) for a creamy, tangy balance. A drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of toasted nuts can add extra flair.
- Spiced Apple Compote: A homemade, lightly spiced apple compote (made with a touch of cinnamon and no added sugar) offers a warm, wholesome pairing that echoes the donut’s flavors.
- Herbal Tea or Coffee: A steaming cup of your favorite herbal tea, a chai latte with plant milk, or a freshly brewed coffee makes for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack.
- Green Smoothie: For a vibrant fusion, a nutrient-packed green smoothie (think spinach, banana, plant milk, and a touch of ginger) offers a refreshing and energizing counterpoint.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make these Cinnamon Sugar Donuts vegan?
Absolutely! This recipe is already designed with vegan ingredients in mind. We use plant-based milk and vegan butter, making these baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts entirely animal-product free. Just ensure all your ingredients (like sugar) are certified vegan.
What’s the difference between baked and fried donuts?
The main difference is preparation method and texture. Baked donuts are cooked in the oven, resulting in a cake-like, fluffy texture, similar to a muffin. They are generally lighter and less greasy than traditional fried donuts.
Fried donuts, however, achieve a distinct chewy, airy interior and a crispy exterior due to the oil. Our baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts offer a delicious, healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.
How can I make my Cinnamon Sugar Donuts extra fluffy?
Several factors contribute to extra fluffy donuts. First, ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh and active. Secondly, avoid overmixing the batter; mix until just combined.
Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a tougher texture. Lastly, make sure your plant-based milk is at room temperature for better emulsion and a smoother batter, contributing to a lighter crumb in your Cinnamon Sugar Donuts.
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are a beloved variety of donuts known for their delightful coating of cinnamon and sugar. This classic treat has become a staple in many bakeries and homes, representing comfort food at its finest, much like the traditional baked goods found in doughnut culture.
Final Thoughts
There’s a special kind of joy in creating these warm, comforting Cinnamon Sugar Donuts. They represent simple pleasures, sustainable choices, and the delightful fusion of flavors in every bite. Bake a batch, share the love, and savor the magic of homemade goodness.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
(Estimates based on one standard baked donut, using plant-based milk and vegan butter)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 200mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Total Sugars | 18g |
| Protein | 3g |
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
These homemade Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are fluffy, tender, and coated with a delicate balance of warm cinnamon and sweet sugar, evoking pure comfort and making for a delightful treat any time of day.
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a donut baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the plant-based milk, melted vegan butter, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Transfer the batter into a piping bag and pipe into the donut pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before removing.
- Combine sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish for coating.
- Brush the warm donuts with melted vegan butter and roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Serve warm.
Notes
Do not overmix the batter to ensure fluffy donuts. Use a piping bag for neat filling and coat while warm for the best flavor.
