Perfectly Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Recipe
Baked cinnamon sugar donuts are the perfect treat for anyone who loves the taste of warm spices paired with soft and fluffy texture. Unlike traditional fried donuts, these are baked in the oven, making them lighter while still giving you that same satisfying flavor. Each bite is coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture that melts in your mouth, turning a simple donut into a bakery style delight you can easily make at home.
What makes these donuts special is how quick and approachable the recipe is. You don’t need complicated equipment or hours in the kitchen to enjoy fresh homemade donuts. With just a few basic ingredients and a donut pan, you can prepare a batch in under 30 minutes. Whether you bake them for breakfast, brunch, or as an afternoon snack, these cinnamon sugar donuts are sure to become a family favorite.
Why You Need This Recipe
This recipe is perfect if you want to enjoy donuts without the heaviness of frying. Baking them keeps the donuts tender and moist while allowing the cinnamon sugar coating to shine. They are quick to make, freezer friendly, and customizable if you want to experiment with glazes or fillings. Whether you are preparing a weekend treat, a holiday breakfast, or a dessert to impress guests, this recipe delivers convenience and flavor every time.
Ingredients
Simple pantry staples come together to create these irresistible donuts. Below is a complete ingredients list with approximate calorie counts so you know exactly what goes into every bite
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| All purpose flour | 1 cup | 455 |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp | 2 |
| Baking soda | ½ tsp | 0 |
| Salt | ¼ tsp | 0 |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp | 6 |
| Sugar | ½ cup | 400 |
| Brown sugar | ¼ cup | 210 |
| Milk | ½ cup | 60 |
| Vegetable oil | ¼ cup | 480 |
| Egg | 1 large | 70 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | 12 |
| Butter (melted, for coating) | 3 tbsp | 300 |
| Cinnamon sugar mix | ½ cup | 420 |
How to Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly greasing a donut pan. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, sugar, and brown sugar. In a separate bowl, combine the milk, oil, egg, and vanilla until smooth. Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix so the donuts stay light and tender. Spoon or pipe the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about two thirds full. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the donuts spring back when lightly touched. Allow them to cool slightly before brushing each donut with melted butter and rolling them generously in the cinnamon sugar mix until fully coated.
Pro Tips
For best results, use a piping bag or a resealable bag with the tip cut off to easily fill the donut pan and achieve even shapes. Always avoid overmixing the batter as it can make the donuts dense rather than fluffy. If you want extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the batter or mix a little pumpkin spice with the cinnamon sugar coating. Brushing with melted butter before rolling in cinnamon sugar ensures the coating sticks beautifully and adds an extra layer of richness.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
These donuts pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, a chai latte, or even warm apple cider, making them perfect for cozy mornings. You can also drizzle them with a light vanilla glaze or add a cream cheese frosting if you want a sweeter finish. Fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples makes a refreshing side, balancing the warm spice and sweetness. They are versatile enough to enjoy plain or dressed up with your favorite toppings.
Conclusion
Baked cinnamon sugar donuts are a quick, delicious, and lighter alternative to fried donuts that do not compromise on taste or texture. With their fluffy centers and perfectly sweet coating, they are a treat you can enjoy any time of day. Easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress, these donuts will become your go to recipe whenever you crave something warm, comforting, and homemade.
