If you’ve ever longed for a delightfully spiced, tender treat that’s also lighter than the usual fried version, this Baked Cinnamon Donuts Recipe is just the answer you need. These donuts come out perfectly fluffy with a warm cinnamon touch that fills your kitchen with the most inviting aroma. Easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy, these baked delights combine simplicity with a comforting flavor that feels like a warm hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients for this recipe are pantry staples, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of texture and flavor. From the warm spices to the tangy buttermilk, each component brings something special to the mix.
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure to the donuts, keeping them soft yet sturdy.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps give those donuts a tender, melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Essential for that perfect rise and lightness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the cinnamon flavor.
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to keep the donuts delightfully tasty.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and classic spice to every bite.
- 1/3 cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and a subtle tang that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
- 1 egg: Binds everything together and contributes to a soft texture.
- 1 teaspoon butter (melted): Adds richness and helps keep the donuts moist.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: For the cinnamon sugar topping, adding a slight crispness.
- 1 ½ tablespoons brown sugar: Deepens the sweetness and lends a slight molasses flavor.
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon: Infuses extra warm cinnamon flavor into the topping.
- 1 tablespoon butter (melted): Helps the cinnamon sugar coating stick perfectly to the donuts.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: For the glaze, adding a smooth sweetness with a beautiful sheen.
- 2 tablespoons milk: Balances the glaze to the right drizzling consistency.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Sprinkles a final touch of spice into the glaze.
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Separate amount for an alternative vanilla glaze option.
- 2 teaspoons milk: Used in the vanilla glaze for a lighter texture.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a fragrant sweetness to the vanilla glaze option.
How to Make Baked Cinnamon Donuts Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Donut Batter
Start by whisking together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, egg, and melted butter until smooth. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just combined; overmixing can make the donuts tough, so stop once you see no more flour streaks.
Step 2: Fill and Bake the Donuts
Transfer your batter into a piping bag or a large resealable plastic bag with a corner snipped off. This makes filling the donut molds a breeze and keeps everything neat. Fill each cavity about three-quarters full to give room for rising. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for roughly 8 minutes, or until the donuts are puffed up and a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
While your donuts bake, mix the extra flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a shallow dish. Melt the butter separately. Once the donuts are warm but cool enough to handle, brush them with melted butter, then toss or sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the tops. This creates that luscious, slightly crunchy coating that makes these donuts utterly irresistible.
Step 4: Prepare the Glaze Options
For one glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and cinnamon until silky and smooth. For a vanilla glaze alternative, combine powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Dip each cinnamon sugar-coated donut halfway into your glaze while still slightly warm, allowing the glaze to set with a gentle sheen.
Step 5: Let the Donuts Cool and Serve
Place the glazed donuts on a wire rack to let the glaze firm up and avoid sogginess. The cooling process gives the perfect texture balance: a soft, cakey donut with that sweet, slightly spiced glaze finish. Now, they’re ready to be devoured and adored!
How to Serve Baked Cinnamon Donuts Recipe
Garnishes
To make your donuts even more tempting, try sprinkling a dusting of powdered sugar or adding a dash of extra cinnamon right before serving. For a festive twist, chopped nuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate create delightful contrast and texture.
Side Dishes
These donuts pair wonderfully with a hot beverage—think rich coffee, spiced chai, or creamy hot chocolate. For a brunch, add fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples for a refreshing burst that balances the warm spices perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow friends or family? Stack your donuts in a pretty tower on a cake stand, maybe interspersed with cinnamon sticks or autumn leaves for a rustic look. Alternatively, serve each donut on a small plate topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and fresh, perfect for a quick snack or a replenished breakfast.
Freezing
Baked cinnamon donuts freeze beautifully. Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and place them all in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to two months. When you want a treat, just thaw at room temperature or heat gently.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the donuts in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or warm gently in a toaster oven. This brings back the soft texture and revives the cinnamon-sugar magic, making each bite just as delightful as fresh.
FAQs
Can I make these donuts gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. The texture might be slightly different but just as tasty.
Is buttermilk necessary or can I substitute?
Buttermilk adds moisture and a subtle tang but if you don’t have any, use regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic the acidity.
Can I bake these in a muffin tin instead?
You can, though the traditional donut shape is part of the charm. Just adjust the baking time slightly and note the texture won’t be exactly the same as in a donut pan.
How do I keep the cinnamon sugar topping from falling off?
Brushing the donuts with melted butter before dusting is key. It acts like glue to ensure the cinnamon sugar sticks and forms a lovely coating.
Can I make these donuts vegan?
Yes, try swapping the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) and use plant-based milk with a vegan butter alternative. The donuts will still be deliciously tender!
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough giving this Baked Cinnamon Donuts Recipe a try—it’s such a cozy, satisfying way to enjoy a classic flavor with less fuss and guilt. Whether you’re treating yourself on a weekend morning or surprising loved ones with a homemade delight, these donuts bring warmth and smiles every single time. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and bake up some happiness!
Print
Baked Cinnamon Donuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 6 donuts
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these fluffy, baked cinnamon donuts that offer a perfect balance of sweet and spice. Lightly moist donuts are coated with a cinnamon sugar mixture and finished with a luscious cinnamon glaze, making them an irresistible treat for breakfast or snack time. These baked donuts are easy to prepare and healthier than traditional fried versions, delivering all the flavor with less guilt.
Ingredients
Donut Batter
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/3 cup buttermilk
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon melted butter
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Cinnamon Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Additional Cinnamon Glaze Variation
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ¾ cup all-purpose flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Whisk together to evenly distribute all the dry ingredients.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, and melted butter until smooth. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, stirring until just combined to form a smooth batter.
- Fill the donut pan and bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a donut pan and fill each cavity about three-quarters full with the batter. Bake for approximately 8 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
- Prepare the cinnamon sugar coating: In a small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons flour, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Stir in 1 tablespoon melted butter until the mixture forms a crumbly texture. Sprinkle this cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the warm donuts while they’re still soft to create a flavorful crust.
- Make the cinnamon glaze and finish: In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon until smooth. Once donuts are cool enough to handle, dip or drizzle the glaze over the top. For an alternative glaze, combine 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 teaspoons milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract and drizzle over the donuts. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Be careful not to overmix the batter to ensure tender donuts.
- Buttermilk can be substituted with milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of vinegar as a homemade alternative.
- Use a non-stick donut pan or thoroughly grease the pan to prevent sticking.
- Donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives.
