I still remember the very first time I baked these cinnamon sugar donut muffins. I was looking for something that combined the softness of a muffin with the comforting sweetness of a classic donut. The aroma that filled my kitchen was irresistible—warm cinnamon mingling with buttery notes, reminding me of a cozy morning in a small bakery. These muffins are not just another baked good; they capture that nostalgic flavor of old-fashioned donuts, yet with the simplicity of being baked, not fried.

What makes this recipe special to me is how quickly it turns an ordinary day into something delightful. Every bite offers a tender crumb coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar layer, making it taste like a bakery treat made right at home. I often prepare these muffins for weekend breakfasts, family gatherings, or when I want to surprise friends with something homemade but not overly complicated.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You will fall in love with these cinnamon sugar donut muffins because they are soft, moist, and coated in a delicate layer of cinnamon sugar that gives them a classic donut finish. They are perfect for mornings when you crave something warm and sweet but don’t want the hassle of frying. With their quick preparation and incredible taste, these muffins are sure to become a household favorite.

Versatile

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve these muffins for breakfast alongside coffee or tea, as an afternoon snack, or even as a dessert for guests. They adapt to any occasion. For a seasonal twist, you can add a touch of nutmeg in the batter during fall, or a pinch of cardamom for a spiced winter variation. They are also perfect for school lunches, bake sales, or as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Affordable

Another reason I cherish this recipe is its affordability. The ingredients are simple pantry staples—flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and cinnamon. Nothing fancy or expensive is required, which makes these muffins budget-friendly while still tasting like something you would buy at a bakery. Since the recipe doesn’t rely on costly ingredients, you can bake a batch without stretching your budget.

Ingredients for the Recipe

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed

• 2 large eggs

• ¾ cup whole milk

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

How to Prepare This Recipe

Baking these cinnamon sugar donut muffins is straightforward and rewarding. The preparation is designed to be simple, quick, and easy, making it perfect even if you are not an experienced baker. With only one bowl for dry ingredients and one bowl for wet ingredients, you can have everything ready in less than 15 minutes before baking. Once baked, the muffins are brushed with melted butter and rolled in cinnamon sugar, giving them that irresistible donut-like coating.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Whether you want a traditional version or prefer to customize with different spices or fillings, these muffins offer endless possibilities. They are light, fluffy, and finished with a sweet coating that adds just the right crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is ready when your batter is prepared. Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease each cavity with butter or non-stick spray. Preparing your pan in advance will make the baking process seamless.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Whisk these dry ingredients together until evenly mixed. This helps distribute the baking powder and soda, ensuring the muffins rise evenly and have a consistent texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another medium-sized bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the batter and creates a tender crumb. The mixture should appear pale and creamy, which usually takes two to three minutes of mixing.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. The eggs give structure, while the vanilla enhances the flavor. Make sure everything is well combined before proceeding.

Step 5: Incorporate Milk and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk. Start with dry ingredients, then add half the milk, mix, and repeat until everything is fully incorporated. Stir gently to avoid overmixing, as this can make the muffins dense. The batter should be thick but smooth.

Step 6: Fill the Muffin Tin

Using a spoon or scoop, divide the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin. Fill each cup about three-quarters full, allowing enough space for the muffins to rise without overflowing.

Step 7: Bake

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The tops should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched.

Step 8: Cool Slightly

Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about five minutes. Afterward, transfer them to a wire rack. This step helps them firm up while still staying soft and moist inside.

Step 9: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

While the muffins are still slightly warm, brush each one with melted butter. Immediately roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated. The butter helps the sugar adhere while giving a rich, buttery flavor. This finishing step is what transforms them into donut-style muffins.

Quick and Easy

These muffins are designed for speed without compromising taste. From start to finish, the recipe takes less than 40 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy mornings or last-minute gatherings. No special equipment is needed—just basic bowls, a whisk, and a muffin tin.

Customizable

The recipe can be easily customized to fit different preferences. For a spiced flavor, you can add nutmeg or allspice to the batter. If you want something extra indulgent, fill the center with a spoonful of jam or Nutella before baking. For a healthier twist, you may replace part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or substitute the sugar coating with a light dusting of cinnamon powder.

Popular with Many People

Cinnamon sugar donut muffins are loved by people of all ages. Children adore the sweet coating, while adults appreciate the nostalgic flavor that brings back memories of bakery-style donuts. They are always a hit at brunches, bake sales, and holiday gatherings. Their simple yet rich flavor profile makes them universally appealing and sure to disappear quickly from any serving plate.

Print

FAQs

Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare these muffins a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will stay soft. To refresh them, warm slightly in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.

How do I store leftover muffins?
Leftover muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze them for up to two months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or reheat gently in the oven.

Can I skip the cinnamon sugar coating?
The coating is what gives these muffins their donut-like flavor. However, you can skip it if you prefer a lighter version. They will still taste delicious, though slightly less indulgent.

Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, whole milk works best for richness, but you can substitute it with low-fat milk or even almond or oat milk. Keep in mind that alternative milks may slightly change the texture.

Can I make mini muffins instead of regular ones?
Absolutely! Use a mini muffin tin and reduce the baking time to about 10–12 minutes. The process is the same, but you will get bite-sized versions perfect for parties or children.

What if I don’t have paper liners?
If you don’t have liners, you can grease the muffin tin with butter or non-stick spray. The muffins will release easily once baked.

Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar in the batter by a few tablespoons if you prefer a less sweet muffin. The cinnamon sugar coating can also be adjusted to taste.