Easy Cinnamon Sugar Baked Donuts
Introduction
There is something comforting about a warm, soft donut. It brings back memories of cozy mornings, weekend breakfasts, or sweet treats shared with family and friends. But while traditional donuts are deep-fried and heavy, baked donuts offer a lighter and easier way to enjoy this beloved classic.
Baked cinnamon sugar donuts are the perfect solution for anyone who wants a quick and delicious treat without the mess of frying. They have a soft, fluffy texture on the inside and a sweet, slightly crisp coating of cinnamon sugar on the outside. They come together in less than 30 minutes and use basic ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
These donuts are ideal for beginners in baking or anyone looking for a fun project with kids. You don’t need any special equipment except for a donut pan, and even that can be substituted with a muffin tin if needed. Whether you are craving something sweet for breakfast or need a quick snack in the afternoon, this recipe is always a hit. The best part is that they taste just like classic donuts but without all the oil and extra calories.
In this article, you will find everything you need to know about making these easy cinnamon sugar baked donuts. From a complete ingredients list with a calorie breakdown to step-by-step instructions and helpful tips, you will be ready to bake a batch in no time. There are also ideas for customizing the recipe, nutritional information, and ways to serve them to make the most out of every bite.
Ingredients Needed
Making these donuts does not require any fancy ingredients. Most of the items are kitchen staples that you might already have. Here is a detailed table of the ingredients you will need, along with approximate calorie counts per ingredient based on one batch which yields about 10 donuts.
| Ingredient | Amount | Approximate Calories |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 ½ cups | 600 calories |
| Baking powder | 2 teaspoons | 5 calories |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | 6 calories |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon | 0 calories |
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup | 387 calories |
| Brown sugar (packed) | ¼ cup | 206 calories |
| Unsalted butter (melted) | ¼ cup | 400 calories |
| Whole milk | ½ cup | 75 calories |
| Large egg | 1 | 70 calories |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | 12 calories |
| Granulated sugar (for coating) | ¼ cup | 194 calories |
| Ground cinnamon (for coating) | 1 tablespoon | 18 calories |
Total Calories per Batch: Around 1973
Estimated Calories per Donut (1 of 10): Around 197
These values are approximate and may vary depending on specific brands and measurements.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease your donut pan lightly with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures that the donuts will slide out easily once they are baked.
In a medium bowl, combine the dry ingredients. Mix the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt together until they are evenly blended. This step helps to make sure that every bite is well-balanced and flavorful.
In another large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Make sure the butter is slightly cooled so it does not cook the egg. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently with a spatula or spoon until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can make the donuts tough instead of soft and fluffy.
Once your batter is ready, spoon it into the donut pan. Fill each cavity about three-quarters full to allow space for the donuts to rise as they bake. You can also use a piping bag or plastic bag with a cut corner to make this step neater.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. The donuts are done when they are golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack.
While the donuts are still warm, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating. In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Dip each donut into the mixture and turn it until it is evenly coated. If you want the coating to stick better, you can lightly brush the donuts with melted butter before dipping them.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
One of the best things about this recipe is that it is easy to make your own. Here are some fun ways to personalize your donuts:
If you like a richer flavor, try adding a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey to the batter. This gives the donuts a deeper sweetness and keeps them moist.
To make chocolate cinnamon donuts, stir in a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder with the flour. You can also add mini chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
If you want to make the recipe dairy-free, use almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk. Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine.
Add a fun twist by using flavored sugars for the coating. Vanilla sugar or orange sugar can add a new dimension to the donuts.
You can also make a glaze instead of the cinnamon sugar coating. Mix powdered sugar with a little milk and vanilla extract. Drizzle over the cooled donuts for a sweet glaze finish.
Nutritional Information
These cinnamon sugar baked donuts are a lighter option compared to traditional fried donuts. One donut contains approximately:
Calories: 197
Total Fat: 7 grams
Saturated Fat: 4 grams
Cholesterol: 35 milligrams
Sodium: 85 milligrams
Total Carbohydrates: 30 grams
Sugar: 16 grams
Protein: 2 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
These values may vary depending on portion size and ingredient brands. You can reduce the sugar or use a sugar substitute to lower the calorie count even more.
Serving Suggestions
Cinnamon sugar baked donuts are perfect on their own but can be dressed up for special occasions. Serve them warm for the best flavor and texture. They go perfectly with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even hot chocolate on a chilly morning.
For a breakfast spread, serve the donuts with fresh fruit, yogurt, or scrambled eggs. This makes a more balanced meal and keeps you fuller longer.
If you are serving them for guests or at a brunch, arrange them on a tiered cake stand with a dusting of powdered sugar. You can also offer different toppings like chocolate glaze, caramel drizzle, or a bowl of whipped cream for dipping.
These donuts are also great as a quick snack or lunchbox treat. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can warm them slightly in the microwave for that fresh-baked feel.
Conclusion
These easy cinnamon sugar baked donuts are everything you love about classic donuts but made in a simpler, healthier way. They are soft, sweet, and full of warm cinnamon flavor. You do not need any special skills or equipment, and you can customize them in so many delicious ways.
Whether you are baking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, these donuts are sure to be a favorite. They are quick to make, satisfying to eat, and bring a little joy to any moment of the day.
Now that you have the full recipe and all the tips, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and bake a batch. Once you try them, you’ll never go back to store-bought donuts again.