Baked Cinnamon ‘Sugar’ Donuts: 7 Irresistible Reasons to Indulge

Name: Baked Cinnamon 'Sugar' Donuts: 7 Irresistible Reasons to Indulge
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating); 2 tsp ground cinnamon (for coating)

By:

Christina R. Jones

August 16, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked donuts wafting through the kitchen, isn’t there? Baked Cinnamon ‘Sugar’ Donuts are not just a treat; they’re a delightful experience that brings people together. I love whipping up a batch with my kids on lazy Sunday mornings, their giggles filling the air as we sprinkle the cinnamon sugar coating. The best part? These donuts are a healthier twist on the classic fried version, so you can indulge without the guilt! They’re soft, fluffy, and bursting with that warm cinnamon flavor that wraps around you like a cozy blanket. Trust me, once you try these, you won’t want to go back to the store-bought ones. Plus, they come together in no time at all, making them perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a brunch with friends or just a sweet treat for yourself. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Baked Cinnamon 'Sugar' Donuts - detail 1

Ingredients List

To make these scrumptious Baked Cinnamon ‘Sugar’ Donuts, you’ll need the following ingredients. I promise, it’s a simple list that packs a punch of flavor!

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup melted butter
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating)

Gather these goodies, and you’re well on your way to donut bliss! Make sure to measure everything accurately for the best results. Happy baking!

How to Prepare Baked Cinnamon ‘Sugar’ Donuts

Getting these Baked Cinnamon ‘Sugar’ Donuts ready is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be savoring the deliciousness in no time. Trust me, the aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone rushing to the table!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for ensuring your donuts bake evenly and come out perfectly fluffy.

While the oven is heating up, grab a mixing bowl and combine your dry ingredients. This means whisking together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Mixing these together first helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents, giving your donuts a great rise!

In another bowl, it’s time to whisk your wet ingredients. Take 1/2 cup of milk, add in 1/4 cup of melted butter (make sure it’s not too hot, just warm), 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk until everything is well combined.

Now, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps! This will keep your donuts tender and light.

Next, fill your donut pan with the batter, about 2/3 full for each cavity. If you’re like me and love a little extra cinnamon sugar on top, you can use a piping bag or a spoon to make this easier. Then, pop them in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they spring back slightly when touched.

While they’re baking, mix together 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon in a small bowl for the coating. Once the donuts are out of the oven, let them cool for just a minute before rolling them in the warm cinnamon sugar mixture. This step is essential for that lovely, sweet outer layer!

Let the donuts cool slightly on a wire rack before serving. And there you have it – warm, fluffy Baked Cinnamon ‘Sugar’ Donuts that are sure to impress!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s chat about the nutritional goodness of these Baked Cinnamon ‘Sugar’ Donuts! Each donut has approximately 150 calories, making them a delightful treat without too much guilt. Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated values:

Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 150mg
Fiber: 1g

Keep in mind that these numbers are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and ingredients used. Enjoy these donuts in moderation as part of a balanced diet!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to adore these Baked Cinnamon ‘Sugar’ Donuts! Let me share a few that I think really set this recipe apart:

Quick Preparation: You can whip these up in just 27 minutes, from start to finish! Perfect for those busy mornings or last-minute cravings.
Delicious Flavor: The warm cinnamon sugar coating paired with the fluffy donut texture creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist!
Healthier Alternative: Being baked instead of fried means you can enjoy these sweet treats without the extra oil and guilt that comes with traditional donuts.
Family-Friendly Fun: Making these donuts is a fantastic way to bond with your loved ones. Trust me, the laughter and joy in the kitchen are worth it!
Versatile Treat: You can easily customize them with different toppings or flavors, making them a delightful option for any occasion.

With all these perks, it’s no wonder these donuts have become a family favorite! I just know you’ll fall in love with them, too.

Tips for Success

Making perfect Baked Cinnamon ‘Sugar’ Donuts is all about a few key tricks that can elevate your baking game! Here are my top tips to ensure you get that fluffy, delicious texture every time.

Measure Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so using the right measurements is crucial. I always use a kitchen scale for precise results, especially with flour.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts – no one wants that!
Use a Donut Pan: A non-stick donut pan is your best friend. If you don’t have one, make sure to grease it well to prevent sticking.
Cool Before Coating: Let the donuts sit for a minute after baking before rolling them in cinnamon sugar. This allows them to set while still warm, enabling the sugar to stick perfectly!
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add a pinch of nutmeg or even a splash of maple syrup to the batter for a unique twist. You might just create your new favorite version!

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to donut perfection. Happy baking!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up your Baked Cinnamon ‘Sugar’ Donuts! Here are a few ideas that I absolutely love:

Chocolate Dipped: Melt some chocolate and dip the tops of your donuts for a decadent twist. Sprinkle with crushed nuts or sprinkles before the chocolate sets!
Maple Glaze: Combine powdered sugar with a splash of maple syrup and a bit of milk for a sweet glaze that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
Fruit Additions: Fold in some fresh blueberries or raspberries into the batter for a fruity burst of flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon sugar coating for an extra crunch.

These variations let you get creative and make this donut recipe your very own. Enjoy experimenting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve enjoyed your Baked Cinnamon ‘Sugar’ Donuts, it’s important to store any leftovers properly to keep them fresh and delicious. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay tasty for about 2-3 days, but trust me, they probably won’t last that long!

For reheating, simply pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to warm them up; this brings back that fresh-baked goodness. If you prefer a little crispiness, you can also place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. Enjoy them warm for the best experience!

Serving Suggestions

These Baked Cinnamon ‘Sugar’ Donuts are delightful on their own, but pairing them with a few accompaniments can take your experience to the next level! Consider serving them alongside a steaming cup of coffee or a hot chocolate for a cozy treat. The rich flavors complement each other beautifully. If you’re feeling fancy, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes for an indulgent dessert option. You could also add some fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or bananas, to lighten things up and add a burst of freshness. Enjoy your donuts in style!

For more delicious dessert ideas, check out Maple Bacon Cupcakes or Cinnamon Roll Cookie Bars.