If you love sweet treats that are easy to make, you’ll adore these Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins! They blend the warm spices of cinnamon with soft, fluffy muffin texture. In just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch that’ll vanish in no time. Ready to learn how to create this tasty delight? Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to bake your new favorite snack!
Ingredients
To make the cinnamon sugar donut muffins, you need these simple ingredients:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ cup whole milk
– ⅓ cup vegetable oil
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (for coating)
– Additional cinnamon-sugar mixture: ½ cup granulated sugar + 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Each ingredient plays a key role in this recipe. The flour provides structure, while the sugar adds sweetness. Baking powder and baking soda help the muffins rise. Salt enhances flavor, and cinnamon gives that warm, cozy touch. Whole milk keeps the muffins moist, and vegetable oil makes them tender. The egg binds everything together, and vanilla adds depth.
Finally, the melted butter and cinnamon-sugar mixture create that tasty, crunchy topping. Gather these ingredients, and you are ready to bake!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Muffin Tin
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This heat is perfect for baking. Next, grab a standard muffin tin. You can use paper liners or spray it lightly with non-stick spray. This stops the muffins from sticking.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Now, take a large mixing bowl. Add 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Use a whisk to combine everything well. You want no dry clumps in the mix.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine ½ cup of whole milk, ⅓ cup of vegetable oil, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until they blend smoothly. This mixture brings moisture to your muffins.
Mixing Batter
Gradually pour the wet mix into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to stir gently. Mix until just combined. It’s okay if a few lumps remain. Overmixing can make the muffins tough.
Filling Muffin Cups
Spoon the batter into each muffin cup. Fill them about ¾ full. You should have enough for about 12 muffins. This will allow them to rise without overflowing.
Baking and Cooling Muffins
Place the muffin tin in your preheated oven. Bake for 18-20 minutes. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into a muffin. If it comes out clean, they are ready. Let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes.
Preparing Cinnamon-Sugar Topping
While the muffins cool, mix ½ cup of granulated sugar with 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Stir until it looks uniform. This topping adds a sweet crunch.
Coating and Serving Muffins
After cooling, take each muffin out of the tin. Dip the tops into ¼ cup of melted unsalted butter. Then roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mix. Make sure they are well coated. Place the muffins on a wire rack. This helps them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your warm, tasty treats!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Muffin Texture
To get a soft and fluffy muffin, focus on the right balance of ingredients. Use the correct amount of flour, as too much can make them dense. The combination of whole milk and oil adds moisture. This keeps your muffins tender and light. Remember, muffins should have a slightly crumbly texture, not too dry or wet.
Measuring Ingredients Accurately
Accurate measurements matter. Use a dry measuring cup for flour and sugar. Spoon the flour into the cup instead of scooping it. This prevents packing the flour, which can lead to too much flour in your mix. Use a scale for precise amounts if you have one. It makes baking much easier.
Avoiding Overmixing
Mix your batter gently. Overmixing creates tough muffins. When you combine wet and dry ingredients, stir just until you see no dry flour. A few small lumps are okay. They will bake out and help keep your muffins soft.
Recommended Baking Tools
Use a standard muffin tin for this recipe. Silicone liners or parchment paper work well to prevent sticking. A whisk helps blend wet ingredients smoothly. A spatula is great for mixing without overmixing. Finally, keep a toothpick handy to check for doneness. It’s a simple but effective tool!
Variations
Flavor Add-Ins
You can spice up your cinnamon sugar donut muffins easily. Here are some fun ideas:
– Chocolate Chips: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter.
– Nutmeg: Swap some cinnamon for nutmeg for a warm twist.
– Fruit Zest: Try adding lemon or orange zest for a fresh flavor.
– Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans give a nice crunch.
Gluten-Free Alternatives
If you need gluten-free muffins, use a gluten-free flour blend. This blend can replace regular flour in a 1:1 ratio. Make sure to check for a blend that includes xanthan gum. This adds structure to the muffins.
Dairy-Free Options
To make these muffins dairy-free, swap whole milk for almond milk or oat milk. Use a dairy-free butter for coating the muffins. This keeps the texture rich and tasty without the dairy. Enjoy these delicious options!
Storage Info
How to Store Muffins
To keep your cinnamon sugar donut muffins fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps keep them moist and soft. You can also use plastic wrap if you don’t have a container. Place them at room temperature for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze your muffins, first let them cool completely. Then, wrap each muffin tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped muffins in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay frozen for about three months. When you want one, just take it out of the freezer.
Best Way to Reheat Muffins
To reheat a muffin, you can use the microwave or the oven. For the microwave, place the muffin on a plate and heat it for 10-15 seconds. If you prefer using an oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Then, wrap the muffin in aluminum foil and bake for about 5-10 minutes. This warms it up and keeps it soft. Enjoy your tasty treat!
FAQs
What can I substitute for vegetable oil?
You can use melted coconut oil or canola oil. Both give a nice flavor and texture. Applesauce is another healthy option. It adds moisture without extra fat.
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar. It will add a richer taste. The muffins may turn a bit darker too. Adjust the amount to your taste.
How do I know when the muffins are done baking?
Check for a toothpick test. Insert a toothpick in the center of a muffin. If it comes out clean, your muffins are ready. They should be lightly golden on top.
Can I make these muffins without eggs?
Yes, you can. Use a flax egg or applesauce instead. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes. This will bind your muffins well.
How long do cinnamon sugar donut muffins stay fresh?
These muffins stay fresh for about 2-3 days. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
You learned how to make delightful cinnamon sugar muffin donuts. We covered essential ingredients, clear steps, and helpful tips. You can explore fun variations to fit your needs. With storage and reheating tips, your muffins will stay fresh longer. Baking is meant to be enjoyable, so don’t stress! Try these muffins for a tasty treat, and share them with friends. You’ll love how simple and satisfying they are. Happy baking!
