Introduction:
Cinnamon sugar donut muffins are a delicious and comforting treat that combines the flavors of a classic donut with the ease of making muffins. This recipe is perfect for those who love the taste of cinnamon and sugar but want a simpler, less messy way to enjoy them. Whether you’re craving a quick breakfast or a satisfying snack, these donut muffins are sure to become a favorite in your household. In this article, we will walk you through the process of creating these fluffy, sugary delights with a step-by-step guide and tips for making them even better.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup buttermilk (or regular milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar added)
- ¼ cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ¼ cup melted butter (for brushing)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a muffin tin by greasing it lightly or using paper liners to prevent the muffins from sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This combination of dry ingredients ensures that your muffins will rise well and have a uniform texture.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, beat the sugar and egg until well combined. Add the buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the mixture and whisk until smooth. The wet ingredients are what provide moisture and flavor to the muffins, making them soft and tender.
- Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until the mixture is combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could result in dense muffins. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy, which is perfect for a fluffy texture.
- Fill the Muffin Tin: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ of the way full. This ensures that the muffins will rise properly without spilling over the edges.
- Bake the Muffins: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. The tops of the muffins should be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating: While the muffins are baking, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating by mixing the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Once the muffins are out of the oven, allow them to cool for about 5 minutes before brushing each muffin with the melted butter and rolling it in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This will give the muffins that signature crispy, sugary exterior.
- Serve and Enjoy: After coating the muffins in cinnamon sugar, they are ready to be served! These donut muffins are best enjoyed while still warm, but they will keep well for a few days in an airtight container.
Tips and Variations:
- Try Different Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different flavors by adding nutmeg, vanilla extract, or even a dash of cocoa powder to the batter for a richer taste.
- Glaze Option: For an extra sweet touch, drizzle a simple glaze over the muffins after coating them in cinnamon sugar. Mix powdered sugar with a bit of milk and vanilla until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Make Them Mini: If you prefer bite-sized treats, you can easily make mini muffins instead of standard-sized ones. Just reduce the baking time to about 10-12 minutes.
Why These Muffins Are So Special:
These cinnamon sugar donut muffins are the perfect blend of crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They are incredibly versatile, making them a great option for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. The warm cinnamon flavor paired with the sweetness of the sugar creates an irresistible combination that everyone will love. Plus, these muffins are easy to make, and you can whip them up in less than an hour!
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Conclusion:
Cinnamon sugar donut muffins are an easy and delicious treat that can be enjoyed by anyone, whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner. The simple ingredients, combined with the rich flavors of cinnamon and sugar, make this recipe a must-try. Follow this step-by-step guide, and soon you’ll be enjoying these warm, fluffy muffins in the comfort of your own home. Happy baking!