Are you ready for a treat that’s soft, sweet, and packed with cinnamon goodness? These Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins are a perfect blend of rich flavors and fluffy texture. Made with simple ingredients you likely already have, they are super easy to whip up. Whether you enjoy them with coffee or as a quick snack, you won’t be able to resist taking a bite. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe!
Ingredients
List of Key Ingredients
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus more for coating)
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– ½ cup buttermilk, at room temperature
– ½ cup granulated sugar (for the cinnamon sugar coating)
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for the coating mix)
Each ingredient plays a role in making these muffins soft and tasty. The flour gives structure. The sugar adds sweetness. Baking powder and baking soda help the muffins rise. Salt enhances flavor. Ground cinnamon gives that warm, familiar taste. Unsalted butter adds richness. The egg binds everything together. Vanilla brings a lovely aroma. Buttermilk adds moisture and tenderness.
Recommended Kitchen Tools
– Muffin tin
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk and spatula
– Toothpick for testing doneness
Using the right tools can make cooking easier. A muffin tin shapes the muffins perfectly. Mixing bowls help keep things organized. A whisk and spatula let you combine ingredients well. A toothpick is key for checking if the muffins are done. These simple tools will help you create your cinnamon sugar donut muffins with ease. For the full recipe, check the link.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare a muffin tin by greasing it or using paper liners.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Mixing Steps
1. In a separate bowl, mix together:
– ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– ½ cup buttermilk, at room temperature
2. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.
3. Gently fold the mixtures together with a spatula. Stop mixing when just combined.
Baking Instructions
1. Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full with batter.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick.
3. While muffins bake, prepare the cinnamon-sugar coating by mixing:
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
4. Once the muffins are done, cool them in the pan for 5 minutes.
5. Roll each warm muffin in the cinnamon-sugar mix. Enjoy every bite of these soft, delightful treats!
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
To ensure even baking, always preheat your oven. This helps the muffins rise and cook uniformly. Use an oven thermometer to check the temperature, as ovens can vary. Fill the muffin cups only three-quarters full. This lets the muffins expand without spilling over.
Avoid overmixing your batter. Mixing too much can make your muffins tough. Stir until just combined; a few lumps are okay. This keeps them soft and fluffy.
Serving Suggestions
These muffins pair well with warm drinks. Enjoy them with coffee or tea for a cozy treat. For added flavor, you can drizzle icing on top. A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk works great.
You can also sprinkle extra cinnamon-sugar on top for a sweet touch. This adds a delightful crunch and more flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To prevent dry muffins, don’t bake them too long. Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean but not dry. If you bake too long, the muffins lose moisture.
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and a dense texture. Set out your butter, egg, and buttermilk before starting.
For the full recipe, check the link provided. Enjoy your baking!
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can make cinnamon sugar donut muffins even better. Try adding chocolate chips or nuts. Chocolate adds a rich taste. Nuts give a nice crunch. You can use walnuts, pecans, or almonds. Just mix them into the batter before baking.
Another option is to experiment with flavored extracts. Instead of vanilla, try almond or maple extract. These flavors can change the whole muffin. A little can go a long way, so start with half a teaspoon.
Healthier Alternatives
If you want a healthier treat, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. Whole wheat adds fiber. It also gives a nutty flavor. Just use the same amount in the recipe.
You can also use sugar alternatives. Try coconut sugar or honey. These options can cut calories and add new flavors. Make sure to adjust the amounts based on the type of sugar.
For those on a plant-based diet, you can make vegan versions of the muffins. Replace the egg with a flax egg or applesauce. Use almond milk or oat milk instead of buttermilk. This way, you still get tasty muffins without dairy or eggs.
For more details and the full recipe, check out the complete guide. Enjoy your time in the kitchen!
Storage Info
How to Store
To keep your cinnamon sugar donut muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps keep the muffins moist and soft. You can keep them at room temperature for up to three days. If you prefer, you can store them in the refrigerator, but they may become a bit dry.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze your muffins, first let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about two hours until firm. After that, transfer the muffins to a freezer bag or airtight container. They will stay good for up to three months.
When you want to enjoy a muffin, thaw it at room temperature. For the best texture, warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This will bring back their soft, delightful charm.
FAQs
What is the best way to ensure moist muffins?
To keep your muffins moist, focus on the right ingredient ratios. Use the correct amount of fat, like unsalted butter, to add richness. Buttermilk also helps create a tender crumb. Be careful not to overmix the batter; stop mixing when you see a few lumps. This keeps air in the muffins for a fluffier texture. Bake them until a toothpick comes out clean, which usually takes about 15-18 minutes.
Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these muffins ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for about three days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. To freeze, wrap each muffin in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. When you want to eat them, just reheat in the microwave for about 15 seconds.
What are some add-ins for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins?
You can enhance your muffins with fun add-ins! Try adding chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Diced apples or mashed bananas can add moisture and flavor. Nuts like walnuts or pecans add crunch. If you want a spice kick, mix in a pinch of nutmeg or ginger. Experiment to find your favorite combinations!
Where can I find the Full Recipe?
You can find the Full Recipe for these delicious Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins in this article. It includes all the details you need to make them perfectly every time!
In this post, I shared how to make delicious cinnamon sugar donut muffins. We covered key ingredients, kitchen tools, and step-by-step baking instructions. I also provided tips to improve texture and avoid common mistakes. Experimenting with variations can add more fun. Finally, storing and freezing methods keep your muffins fresh longer. Enjoy baking these tasty treats and share them with friends!
