Name: Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Easy Recipe for a Cozy Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 large egg (at room temperature); 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar; 1/4 cup milk; 1/4 cup yogurt; 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); 1 and 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)

Introduction to Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Why homemade baked donuts are a game-changer for young professionals

Let’s face it: life can be busy, especially for young professionals juggling work, social life, and personal interests. This is why baked cinnamon sugar donuts emerge as a delightful solution to your snack cravings. Unlike their fried counterparts, these baked beauties not only retain that classic sweet flavor but are also healthier and quicker to whip up at home. You can enjoy fresh, warm donuts without the guilt of excess oil!

Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of homemade cinnamon sugar donuts filling your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a donut pan, you can create a treat that impresses both colleagues and friends alike. Plus, making these donuts at home gives you the chance to modify the recipe to suit your taste, maybe with a touch of maple syrup or a sprinkle of nuts.

Moreover, the joy of crafting these baked donuts can be a calming ritual amidst a hectic schedule. Not only do you get to indulge in a sweet treat, but you're also enjoying the process of creating something from scratch. Give these baked cinnamon sugar donuts a try, and you might just find they become a staple in your recipe rotation!

Ingredients for Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

When it comes to creating the perfect baked cinnamon sugar donuts, it's all about striking the right balance with your ingredients. Let’s break down what you need to whip up these delightful treats!

Essential dry ingredients

All-purpose flour: The foundation of your donuts, contributing to a fluffy texture.
Baking powder and baking soda: These leavening agents work in tandem to help your donuts rise beautifully.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: Essential for that warm, spiced flavor that defines cinnamon sugar donuts.

Key wet ingredients

Large egg: Brings cohesion to the batter and adds richness.
Brown sugar: The packed light brown sugar contributes moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
Milk and yogurt: Together, these add creaminess and a tender crumb to your donuts.
Unsalted butter: Melted for richness, this ingredient adds that comforting buttery taste.
Pure vanilla extract: A splash for warmth and depth, elevating the overall flavor profile.

Topping components

Granulated sugar and ground cinnamon: This duo creates the classic cinnamon sugar coating that makes these donuts utterly irresistible.
Unsalted butter: A drizzle, followed by a dip in the cinnamon sugar, is the secret to that delicious, sweet crust.

With these simple yet essential ingredients, you’ll be on your way to baking some mouthwatering cinnamon sugar donuts that will have friends and family asking for seconds!

Step-by-step preparation for Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Creating delightful baked cinnamon sugar donuts at home can be a rewarding experience. Let’s walk through each step together, ensuring you’re set up for success.

Gather and measure your ingredients

Before diving in, it’s crucial to gather all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 large egg (at room temperature)
⅓ cup packed light brown sugar
¼ cup milk
¼ cup yogurt
2 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
1 and ½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract

And for the topping:

1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ cup unsalted butter (melted)

Having everything out and measured will make your baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Mix the dry ingredients together

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure they’re well combined! This step encourages even distribution of the leavening agents and spices throughout the donuts.

Prepare the wet ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the egg, brown sugar, milk, yogurt, melted butter, and vanilla. You want this mixture to be creamy and free of lumps. Mixing these ingredients well will yield a moist donut, so don’t rush this part.

Combine wet and dry ingredients

Now for the fun part! Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients using a spatula. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix. The batter will be thick, which is perfect for getting that wonderful donut shape.

Pipe and fill the donut pan

Here’s where you can really shine. Use a large zipped-top bag to pipe the batter into your donut pan. Just cut a small corner off the bag and fill each cavity about ⅔ to ¾ full. This method is less messy and ensures a clean finish.

Bake to perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and pop your filled donut pan in. Bake for about 9-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Don’t rush the cooling process—let them rest for about two minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.

Cool and coat the donuts

While your donuts are cooling, mix the granulated sugar with ground cinnamon in a medium bowl. Once the donuts have cooled for about 10 minutes, dip each one in the melted butter and then roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring they’re well coated. There’s something so satisfying about that last step!

Revel in the scent wafting through your kitchen—there's just something about fresh baked cinnamon sugar donuts that feels like a warm hug. Enjoy them freshest right after coating or store them for later!

Variations on Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Apple Cinnamon Baked Donuts

Elevate your baked cinnamon sugar donuts by adding fresh apple chunks and a dash of nutmeg to the batter. This not only infuses a delightful fruity flavor but also adds a moist texture that pairs perfectly with the warm spices. Serve with a drizzle of sweet glaze for an extra indulgence—your taste buds will thank you!

Chocolate Glazed Donuts

If you’re a chocolate lover, try topping your baked cinnamon sugar donuts with a rich chocolate glaze. Simply melt high-quality dark chocolate and mix in a bit of cream for shine. This twist balances the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar and gives your donuts a decadent, irresistible finish. You can learn more about making the perfect glaze here.

Experimenting with these variations will keep your baking adventures exciting!

Cooking tips and notes for Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Best practices for measuring ingredients

Accurate ingredient measurement is crucial for baked cinnamon sugar donuts that turn out just right. Use the spooned and leveled method for flour: scoop it into your measuring cup with a spoon, then level it off with a straight edge. This prevents the donuts from being too dense. For wet ingredients, such as milk and yogurt, a liquid measuring cup is best—check it at eye level for precision.

Ensuring the perfect donut texture

To achieve a tender donut, avoid overmixing your batter. Mix until just combined—some lumps are okay! Also, remember that the batter will be thick; this is normal for baked cinnamon sugar donuts. An easy way to fill the donut pan is by using a zip-top bag to pipe in the batter. This method keeps your work clean and makes portioning easy!

For more insights on measuring and baking, check out resources like Sally's Baking Addiction. Happy baking!

Serving suggestions for Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Pairing with Coffee or Tea

There's nothing quite like enjoying baked cinnamon sugar donuts alongside your morning coffee or afternoon tea. The warm, spiced flavors of these donuts beautifully complement the rich notes of a freshly brewed cup. Whether you prefer a classic black coffee or a soothing herbal tea, this combination is sure to awaken your taste buds and brighten your day.

Serving with Fruit Preserves or Yogurt

Elevate your donut experience by serving your baked cinnamon sugar donuts with a dollop of fruit preserves or a side of creamy yogurt. Strawberries, blueberries, or peach preserves add a delightful fruity contrast, while yogurt provides a tangy richness that balances the sweetness. This simple addition can transform your treat into an inviting brunch option or a satisfying snack. Serve with a knife and fork for a touch of elegance. For more inspiration, check out this guide on pairing fruit with desserts to enhance your culinary adventures!

Time Breakdown for Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Preparation Time
Getting started with these baked cinnamon sugar donuts is a breeze! You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation. This includes gathering your ingredients and mixing the batter, ensuring you’re all set for those fluffy delights.

Baking Time
Next up, the baking magic happens for 9-10 minutes in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C). This is where your kitchen will start to smell heavenly with cinnamon!

Cooling Time
After baking, don’t rush! Allow your donuts to cool for about 10 minutes before adding that sweet cinnamon sugar topping. Trust us, patience pays off—it leads to the best texture and flavor.

Nutritional Facts for Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Calories per donut

Each baked cinnamon sugar donut packs about 150 calories, making it a delightful treat without too much guilt. If you're counting, this is a moderate treat to enjoy on a cloudy Sunday or after a long work week!

Key nutrients

These donuts provide a variety of essential nutrients, including:

Carbohydrates: For a quick energy boost
Protein: From eggs and yogurt, vital for muscle repair
Calcium: Sourced from milk and yogurt, great for bone health

Suggested servings

This recipe yields approximately 12 donuts, ideal for sharing with friends or enjoying throughout the week. They’re best served fresh but can be stored at room temperature for up to two days. Enjoying them with a nice cup of coffee? That sounds like the perfect morning!

For more insights on healthier treats, check out this article on nutritional benefits of yogurt or explore healthy baking tips to enhance your baking skills!

FAQs about Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Can I substitute ingredients?

Absolutely! If you're out of certain ingredients for your baked cinnamon sugar donuts, don't fret. You can swap all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend. Greek yogurt can replace regular yogurt for added creaminess, and plant-based milk works fine too. Don’t hesitate to experiment with other sweeteners like coconut sugar or honey, just remember that sweetness levels may vary!

How do I store leftovers?

Once your baked cinnamon sugar donuts are cooled, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for about two days, perfect for a snack or breakfast treat. For longer storage, you can freeze them—just wrap each donut tightly and place in a freezer-safe bag.

What’s the best way to reheat them?

To enjoy your baked cinnamon sugar donuts warm, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. If you prefer a crispy outer texture, a brief toast in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for a few minutes will do the trick, enhancing that delightful cinnamon-sugar coating.

Conclusion on Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Final thoughts on enjoying homemade baked treats

Indulging in baked cinnamon sugar donuts brings warmth to your kitchen and joy to your palate. Homemade treats are a perfect way to create memorable moments, whether enjoying them with friends or savoring them solo. Ready to share these delightful snacks? Grab your ingredients and let the deliciousness begin!

For more delicious treat ideas, check out resources like Sally's Baking Addiction for inspiration and tips!