Cookies & Bars
Fluffy Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts (No Frying Required!)
My fluffy baked cinnamon sugar donuts are tender, cake-like, and coated in sweet cinnamon sugar. No frying needed - just pure donut bliss!
Fresh Homemade Donuts in Under 30 Minutes
These baked cinnamon sugar donuts are my go-to when I want that classic donut shop experience without the hassle of deep frying. They are lighter, less greasy, and come together so fast that you can have warm, fresh donuts before your coffee is even ready. The texture is perfectly cake-like and tender, and the generous cinnamon sugar coating that clings to every curve makes them absolutely irresistible.
Baker’s Tips
- Use room temperature eggs and milk for a smoother batter. Take them out about 30 minutes before you start.
- Do not overmix the batter — fold gently with a spatula until just combined. A few small lumps are perfectly fine and will disappear during baking.
- Coat the donuts while still slightly warm — warm enough for the butter to adhere, but not so hot that it melts the sugar coating.
- Use a piping bag or zip-top bag to fill the pan cavities for more control and evenly shaped donuts.
Variations
- Chocolate Cinnamon: Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a rich, indulgent twist.
- Apple Cider: Fold in finely diced apples and replace half the milk with apple cider for a taste of fall.
- Brown Sugar Coating: Swap the granulated sugar for brown sugar in the coating for a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.
Ingredients
For the Donuts
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
Instructions
- 1
Prepare Your Kitchen
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Generously grease a 12-cavity donut pan with butter or cooking spray, making sure to get into all the grooves. This step is crucial for easy removal later!
- 2
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg until well combined. Make sure there are no lumps - this ensures even distribution of flavors.
- 3
Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be completely uniform.
- 4
Create the Batter
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together with a rubber spatula until just combined. Don't overmix - a few small lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing will result in tough donuts.
- 5
Fill and Bake
Transfer the batter to a piping bag or large zip-top bag with the corner cut off. Pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops spring back when lightly touched.
- 6
Cool and Prepare Coating
Let donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack. While they cool, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the coating in a shallow bowl, and melt the butter for dipping.
- 7
Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
While donuts are still slightly warm, brush each one with melted butter, then roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture until completely coated. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition Information
Per serving (serves 12). Values are approximate.
| Calories | 195 calories |
| Total Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Sugar | 16g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Sodium | 180mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs. Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these baked cinnamon sugar donuts without a donut pan?
While a donut pan gives the classic shape, you can use a muffin tin to make donut muffins! Just fill the cups 2/3 full and bake for 12-15 minutes. They'll taste just as delicious, even without the traditional donut hole.
How do I store leftover baked donuts?
Store your baked cinnamon sugar donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature and refresh the cinnamon sugar coating if needed.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
I recommend baking these donuts fresh for the best texture, but you can prepare the dry ingredients the night before. Mix the wet and dry ingredients together just before baking for the fluffiest results.
Reader Reviews
Based on 198 reviews
