These cinnamon sugar donut muffins combine the best of two favorites: the tender crumb of a muffin and the irresistible coating of a cinnamon-sugar donut. Baked until golden and finished with melted butter and a generous dusting of cinnamon sugar, they’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon coffee break.
With simple pantry ingredients and no frying required, this recipe delivers bakery-quality results with minimal effort.
Ingredients (Makes 10–12 Muffins)
Muffins
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for classic donut flavor)
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
How They’re Made
The muffin batter comes together quickly by mixing the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another, then gently combining the two. The batter is spooned into a greased or lined muffin tin and baked until tall, soft, and lightly golden.
Once baked, the muffins are briefly cooled, then dipped in melted butter and rolled generously in cinnamon sugar. This final step creates the signature donut-like crust seen in the image—slightly crisp on the outside and tender inside.
Baking Instructions
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease or line a muffin tin.
- In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, whisk milk, eggs, oil (or butter), and vanilla.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients just until mixed.
- Fill muffin cups about ¾ full.
- Bake for 18–22 minutes, until lightly golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool for 5 minutes, then dip muffins in melted butter.
- Roll immediately in cinnamon sugar until fully coated.
Serving Suggestions
- Best served warm with coffee or tea
- Delicious for breakfast, brunch, or dessert
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days
Final Thoughts
These cinnamon sugar donut muffins are proof that you don’t need a deep fryer to enjoy classic donut flavors. Soft, fragrant, and beautifully coated, they’re a comforting homemade treat that looks just as good as it tastes.
