Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts – Soft, Fluffy & Bakery-Style

Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are soft, fluffy, and coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar topping that makes every bite irresistible. Unlike traditional fried donuts, these baked treats are lighter, easier to make, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and fluffy texture
• No deep frying required
• Sweet cinnamon sugar coating
• Easy homemade donut recipe
• Perfect for breakfast or brunch
• Family-friendly treat
• Made with simple pantry ingredients
• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Great for holidays and weekends
• Bakery-style flavor at home

Ingredients

For the Donuts

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 3/4 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a donut pan well.
3. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and sugar.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk egg, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla.
5. Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients.
6. Mix just until combined.
7. Spoon or pipe batter into the donut pan.
8. Fill each cavity about three-quarters full.
9. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until lightly golden.
10. Allow donuts to cool for 5 minutes.
11. Brush each donut with melted butter.
12. Combine sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
13. Roll warm donuts in cinnamon sugar until fully coated.
14. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

• Use a piping bag for easy filling
• Do not overmix the batter
• Coat donuts while still warm
• Add nutmeg for extra flavor
• Use brown sugar in the coating
• Drizzle with vanilla glaze
• Add apple pie spice for a fall version
• Use mini donut pans for bite-sized treats
• Store in airtight containers
• Enjoy fresh the same day for best texture

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days
• Keep in an airtight container
• Refrigerate up to 5 days
• Freeze uncoated donuts for up to 2 months
• Thaw at room temperature before serving
• Recoat with fresh cinnamon sugar after thawing

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Hot coffee
• Chai tea
• Hot chocolate
• Vanilla latte
• Fresh fruit
• Breakfast spreads
• Brunch buffets
• Holiday mornings
• Afternoon snacks
• Weekend treats

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these without a donut pan?

Yes. You can use a muffin pan to make donut muffins with the same flavor and texture.

Why are my donuts dense?

Overmixing the batter can make baked donuts heavy. Stir only until the ingredients are combined.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes. Bake the donuts a day ahead and add the cinnamon sugar coating before serving.

Do baked donuts taste like fried donuts?

They have a softer cake-like texture rather than the airy texture of fried donuts, but they’re equally delicious.

Ready to Make It?

These Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are soft, sweet, and packed with cozy cinnamon flavor. They’re quick to prepare, easy to bake, and perfect for anyone who loves homemade bakery-style treats without the hassle of frying.

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