Are you ready to indulge in a sweet treat that combines the best of donuts and muffins? In this post, I will share my simple and tasty recipe for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins. With easy steps and quick tips, you’ll whip up these fluffy delights in no time. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, they promise to satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into the fun of baking together!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins
To make these tasty muffins, gather the following ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free alternative)
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ¼ cup granulated sugar (for coating)
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating)
Notes on Substitutions
If you want to make these muffins dairy-free, you can use almond milk instead of regular milk. You can also try coconut oil in place of unsalted butter. This keeps the muffins soft and tasty. For a gluten-free option, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend. Just make sure it has xanthan gum for a good texture.
Measurement Tips and Techniques
Use a kitchen scale for best results. Weighing flour gives you accurate measurements. If using cups, spoon the flour into the cup and level it off with a knife. Avoid packing the flour down. For sugar, it’s fine to scoop directly from the bag. If you want fluffier muffins, let your eggs and milk sit out for a bit to reach room temperature before mixing. This helps the batter blend smoothly.
For the best flavor, always use fresh spices. Ground cinnamon should be aromatic. If it lacks scent, it’s time to get a new jar. Enjoy making these muffins! They are sure to be a hit. If you want the full recipe, just check out the earlier section.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Muffin Tin
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. Next, grease your muffin tin with non-stick spray or line it with paper liners. This helps the muffins slide out easily once baked.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the following dry ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon salt
Whisk these ingredients together until they are well mixed and airy. This mix creates a great base for your muffins.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, crack 1 large egg and beat it well. Then, add:
– 1 cup milk (or almond milk for a dairy-free option)
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Whisk these wet ingredients together until smooth. This mixture brings moisture and flavor to your muffins.
Folding Wet and Dry Ingredients Together
Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold them together. Be careful not to overmix. The batter should be slightly lumpy. This texture helps keep the muffins light and fluffy.
Baking the Muffins
Using a spoon or ice cream scoop, fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with batter. This gives them room to rise. Place the muffin tin in the oven and bake for 15-17 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center of a muffin. It should come out clean.
Preparing the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the muffins bake, prepare the cinnamon-sugar coating. In a small bowl, mix together:
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Stir until well combined. This mixture adds a sweet, crunchy finish to your muffins.
Coating the Muffins
Once the muffins are out of the oven, let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Carefully remove the muffins while they are still warm. Roll each muffin in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, coating all sides. This step makes each bite a sweet delight. After coating, transfer the muffins to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps keep the sugar in place.
For the full recipe, check out the section above. Enjoy your cinnamon sugar donut muffins!
Tips & Tricks
Avoiding Overmixing for Optimal Texture
To get the best texture in your muffins, mix just until combined. When you fold the wet and dry ingredients, lumps are okay! Overmixing makes the muffins tough, not soft. Trust me, you want that light and fluffy bite.
Testing Muffins for Doneness
A toothpick is your best friend here. Insert it into the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean, the muffins are ready. If there’s wet batter, give them a few more minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking!
Best Practices for Storing Muffins
To keep your muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container. They stay good for about three days at room temp. If you want to save them longer, freeze them! Just wrap each muffin well in plastic wrap. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temp or warm them in the microwave. Enjoy them fresh!
For the full recipe, check out the detailed steps above.
Variations
Adding Chocolate Chips or Nuts
You can make these muffins even better by adding chocolate chips or nuts. For chocolate lovers, mix in ½ cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips. They melt and create pockets of chocolate delight. If you prefer nuts, try ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans. They add a nice crunch and nutty flavor to your muffins.
Flavor Variations (e.g., pumpkin spice)
Want to change the flavor? Try adding pumpkin spice for a cozy fall treat. Just replace the ground cinnamon with 2 teaspoons of pumpkin spice in the batter. You can also experiment with lemon zest for a fresh, zesty taste. Each variation brings a fun twist to your classic cinnamon sugar donut muffins.
Gluten-Free Options
If you need a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free mix. Make sure it works well for baking. You can also add a bit of xanthan gum to help with texture. These small changes will give you delicious muffins without gluten, so everyone can enjoy this tasty treat.
Check out the Full Recipe to see how to make these variations.
Storage Info
How to Store Muffins for Freshness
To keep your cinnamon sugar donut muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container. This method helps maintain their soft texture. You can place a slice of bread in the container to keep them moist. They will stay fresh for about three days at room temperature. If you live in a humid area, consider refrigerating them to prevent mold.
Freezing Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins
Freezing is a great option if you want to save some muffins for later. First, let the muffins cool completely. Wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped muffins in a freezer bag. This method will help avoid freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw at room temperature or microwave for a quick treat.
Reheating Tips
To reheat your muffins, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the muffins on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5-10 minutes. This will make them taste freshly baked. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave each muffin for about 15-20 seconds. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor!
You can find the full recipe for cinnamon sugar donut muffins above to enjoy these delightful treats!
FAQs
How to make cinnamon sugar donut muffins from scratch?
To make cinnamon sugar donut muffins, start with the right ingredients. You need flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, egg, milk, butter, and vanilla. Mix the dry ingredients first in one bowl. In another bowl, whisk the wet ingredients together. Combine both mixtures, being careful not to overmix. Fill a muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 15-17 minutes. Roll in cinnamon sugar after baking. This method makes perfect muffins every time.
Can I use whole wheat flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour. It adds a nutty flavor and a bit of extra fiber. The muffins may be denser, but they will taste great. You can also mix half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a lighter texture. Just remember to keep an eye on the baking time, as it might change slightly.
How long do cinnamon sugar donut muffins last?
Cinnamon sugar donut muffins last about 3-4 days at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
What can I pair with these muffins for breakfast?
These muffins go well with many breakfast items. You can serve them with a hot cup of coffee or tea. They also pair nicely with yogurt or fresh fruit. For a heartier meal, add eggs or bacon on the side. This makes for a fun and filling breakfast plate.
Where can I find the full recipe for cinnamon sugar donut muffins?
You can find the full recipe for cinnamon sugar donut muffins in this article. It includes all the steps and tips to help you make them perfectly. Enjoy baking these tasty treats!
You now know how to make delicious cinnamon sugar donut muffins. We covered the key ingredients and substitutions, along with detailed steps to bake them perfectly. I shared tips to enhance texture and storage for freshness. You can even try fun variations to match your taste.
These muffins are easy to make and tasty for breakfast or snacks. Try them out and enjoy the sweet goodness you created at home!
