Are you ready to whip up something delicious? Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are the perfect treat for any time of day! This easy recipe uses simple ingredients and packs a sweet flavor punch. I’ll guide you through every step, from mixing the batter to coating your warm donuts in a cinnamon-sugar blend. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these tasty treats that are sure to brighten anyone’s day!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Soft and Fluffy Texture: These donuts are incredibly soft and fluffy, making them a delightful treat that melts in your mouth.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and quick, perfect for both beginner bakers and those short on time.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a warm, comforting flavor that is hard to resist.
- Healthier Alternative: Baked instead of fried, these donuts offer a lighter option without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
Gather these ingredients before you start. The flour makes the base for the donuts. Sugar adds sweetness. Baking powder and baking soda help the donuts rise. Salt balances flavors. Ground cinnamon gives that warm spice taste. Nutmeg is optional but adds depth. Greek yogurt keeps the donuts moist. The egg binds everything together. Milk helps with texture. Melted butter adds richness. Finally, vanilla extract boosts the overall flavor. The extra sugar and cinnamon coat the donuts, giving them that classic sweet finish. With these items ready, you’re set to create delicious baked cinnamon sugar donuts!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
First, you need to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is key for even baking. While the oven heats, grease your donut pan with cooking spray or melted butter. This helps the donuts come out easily.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
Mix these dry ingredients well. This helps blend the flavors and makes the donuts soft.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Stir these wet ingredients until they are smooth. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your donuts.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Next, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ones. Gently fold them together until just combined. Do not overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps. Overmixing can make the donuts tough.
Fill Donut Pan
Now it’s time to fill the donut pan. Transfer the batter into a piping bag or a plastic zip-lock bag with a corner cut off. Fill each donut cavity about 2/3 full. This gives the donuts room to rise.
Bake the Donuts
Place the filled pan in the oven. Bake the donuts for 10-12 minutes. They are done when they spring back when touched, or a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
While the donuts bake, mix together:
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Once the donuts cool for about 5 minutes in the pan, transfer them to a wire rack. While they’re still warm, dip the tops into the cinnamon sugar mixture. This gives the perfect sweet finish. Enjoy your tasty baked donuts!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get soft and fluffy donuts, you need to mix carefully. Overmixing makes them tough. Aim for a few lumps in the batter. This keeps your donuts light and airy.
Using Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is a game changer for these donuts. It adds moisture and a slight tang. This helps balance the sweetness. If you don’t have Greek yogurt, plain yogurt works too.
Mixing Techniques
When you combine wet and dry ingredients, use a gentle folding motion. This prevents the batter from becoming dense. Take your time to mix until just combined.
Baking Time and Temperature
Bake the donuts at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes. Your donuts should spring back when touched. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. Keep an eye on them; ovens vary.
Storage Tips
Store your baked donuts in an airtight container. They stay fresh for about two days at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. Just thaw before serving.
Pro Tips
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your egg and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better rise.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together; overmixing can lead to dense donuts.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test the center of the donuts; if it comes out clean, they are ready!
- Coat While Warm: Dip the donuts in the cinnamon sugar mixture while they are still warm for better adhesion of the coating.
Variations
Glazing Options
You can add a glaze to your donuts for extra sweetness. A simple glaze is easy to make. Mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk and a splash of vanilla. Dip the tops of the cooled donuts into this glaze. For a fun twist, try adding a bit of lemon juice or almond extract for more flavor.
Flavor Additions
Want to mix it up? Add different flavors to your batter! You can try adding a few tablespoons of cocoa powder for a chocolate twist. Or, fold in mini chocolate chips for a treat. You can also add nuts for crunch or dried fruit for sweetness. Experiment with different spices like ginger or cardamom for a unique taste.
Healthier Substitutes
If you want a healthier donut, swap some ingredients easily. Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for more fiber. You can reduce sugar by using a sugar substitute or honey. Greek yogurt is great for adding protein, but you can also use unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat option. These small changes can help you enjoy your baked cinnamon sugar donuts guilt-free!
Storage Info
How to Store Baked Donuts
To keep your baked cinnamon sugar donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. They stay good for up to three days at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, refrigeration is an option. Just know they might dry out a bit.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing is a great way to save donuts for later. Once they are completely cool, wrap each donut in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer-safe bag. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, place the donuts in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This warms them up and keeps them soft. If you prefer a crispy top, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. Enjoy them warm for the best taste!
FAQs
Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these donuts ahead of time. Bake them and let them cool. Store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for a couple of days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. To eat, just warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
How do I know when the donuts are done baking?
You know the donuts are done when they spring back after a gentle touch. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean. This usually takes about 10 to 12 minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Can I use another type of yogurt?
You can use other types of yogurt if you want. Greek yogurt gives the best texture, but regular yogurt works too. Plant-based yogurt is also a good option for a dairy-free choice. Just make sure it’s plain to keep the flavor right.
What should I do if I don’t have a donut pan?
If you don’t have a donut pan, don’t worry! You can use a muffin pan instead. Just fill the cavities about 2/3 full. The shape will be different, but they will still taste great. You could even shape them by hand if you like a fun twist.
How can I make these donuts dairy-free?
To make these donuts dairy-free, use plant-based yogurt and milk. Almond milk or oat milk works well. Replace the melted butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute. This way, you can enjoy these donuts without any dairy!
This blog post covered how to make tasty baked donuts. We explored the right ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. I shared how to achieve the best texture and storage info for freshness. You can even try different flavors and glazes to switch things up. Remember, these donuts are quick to make and fun to enjoy. With a few simple changes, you can customize them to your taste. Happy bakin
