Save This magical hybrid of muffins and donuts brings the best of both worlds to your breakfast table without the hassle of deep frying. These Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins feature a tender, cake-like interior and that irresistible cinnamon-sugar coating that makes traditional donuts so beloved. I developed this recipe after my children kept begging for donuts every weekend, but I wanted something simpler to make at home.
I first made these on a snowy Sunday morning when we couldn't make our usual bakery run. The house filled with the most incredible aroma of nutmeg and cinnamon, and my family devoured them so quickly I had to make a second batch before noon!
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: provides the perfect structure for these muffins while keeping them tender
- Baking powder and baking soda: work together to create the ideal rise and texture
- Ground nutmeg: gives that classic donut shop flavor that makes these truly special
- Unsalted butter: adds richness and allows you to control the salt content
- Whole milk: creates a moist, tender crumb look for full-fat for best results
- Vanilla extract: enhances all the flavors choose pure rather than imitation
- Cinnamon: for the topping use fresh Ceylon cinnamon for the most aromatic experience
- Granulated sugar: balances the spices and creates that classic donut coating
Instructions
- Prepare Your Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare your muffin tin with either paper liners or a thorough coating of butter or cooking spray. The high temperature helps create that beautiful dome on top of your muffins.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together your flour, leavening agents, salt, and nutmeg until thoroughly combined. The nutmeg is crucial here as it gives these muffins that distinctive donut shop flavor that will transport you straight to your favorite bakery.
- Create Your Wet Mixture:
- Whisk together melted butter and sugar until the mixture becomes slightly lighter in color. This incorporates tiny air bubbles that help with the texture. Add your eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This prevents the mixture from separating. Finally, stir in milk and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Using a gentle folding motion, incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stop mixing as soon as the flour disappears. Overmixing develops gluten, which can make your muffins tough rather than tender. Some small lumps are perfectly fine.
- Fill Your Muffin Cups:
- Divide your batter evenly among the prepared cups, filling each about three-quarters full. This gives the muffins room to rise without overflowing. Use an ice cream scoop for even portions.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake for 16-18 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through for even browning. The muffins are done when they spring back lightly when touched and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Apply the Donut Coating:
- While the muffins are still warm but not hot, brush each muffin top generously with melted butter. The warmth helps the butter absorb slightly into the muffin. Then immediately dip into the cinnamon-sugar mixture, pressing gently to ensure maximum coverage. The butter helps the cinnamon sugar adhere beautifully.
Save The nutmeg truly is the secret ingredient in these muffins. I discovered this when comparing them to my favorite local donut shop's offerings. When I increased the nutmeg slightly, my husband declared they were even better than the bakery version! It's that subtle background note that makes people wonder what makes these so incredibly delicious.
Storage and Freshness Tips
These muffins are at their absolute best the day they're made, when the contrast between the soft interior and the slightly crisp cinnamon-sugar coating is most pronounced. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To refresh them, warm in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. I don't recommend refrigerating them as this can dry them out.
Clever Variations
Apple Cider Donut Muffins: Replace 1/4 cup of the milk with apple cider reduction and add 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon to the batter for a fall-inspired treat.
Lemon Donut Muffins: Add 1 tablespoon lemon zest to the batter and replace the cinnamon-sugar coating with a lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice.
Chocolate Chip Donut Muffins: Fold in 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips to the batter before baking for a chocolate lover's version.
Serving Suggestions
These muffins pair beautifully with a variety of beverages and accompaniments. For breakfast, serve alongside fresh fruit to balance the sweetness. Coffee or hot chocolate makes an ideal beverage pairing, as the bitter notes in coffee particularly complement the sweet cinnamon coating. For a special brunch, arrange on a tiered stand with other breakfast pastries for an impressive display.
Make-Ahead Instructions
If you're planning for a special breakfast or brunch, you can prepare components ahead of time. Mix the dry ingredients the night before and store in a covered bowl. The cinnamon-sugar mixture can also be prepared in advance. In the morning, you'll only need to mix the wet ingredients, combine with the dry, and bake. This cuts your morning prep time in half.
Save Enjoy these delightful donut muffins that are sure to become a family favorite! They are perfect for a quick breakfast, a weekend treat, or a special occasion.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I achieve a soft, tender muffin texture?
Use room temperature eggs and avoid overmixing your batter to ensure the muffins remain light and tender.
- → Can I substitute whole milk with a non-dairy alternative?
Yes, unsweetened almond or oat milk can be substituted if you prefer a dairy-free option.
- → What's the best way to apply the cinnamon sugar topping?
Brush the muffin tops with melted butter while warm and dip them in the cinnamon sugar mixture for an even coating.
- → How should I store the muffins to keep them fresh?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to retain moisture and flavor.
- → Are these muffins suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the ingredients used are vegetarian-friendly. Always check ingredient labels for dietary preferences.
- → Can I freeze these muffins for later?
Yes, cool completely, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.