Description: These incredibly soft and tender donut muffins are reminiscent of classic cinnamon sugar donuts, but baked to perfection in muffin tins. They’re quick, easy to make, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat any time of day. The fluffy texture and warm cinnamon sugar coating make them irresistible!
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for the batter)
- ½ cup milk
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for coating the muffins before the cinnamon sugar topping)
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Equipment
Before you even begin to gather your ingredients, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your oven is at the correct temperature when you’re ready to bake, which is crucial for the muffins to rise properly and achieve their signature fluffy texture.
Next, prepare your muffin tin. You have two options here: you can either line the muffin tin with paper liners or grease it very well. Paper liners make removing the muffins a breeze and minimize cleanup. However, if you don’t have liners on hand, greasing the muffin tin with butter or cooking spray works just as well. Make sure to coat every nook and cranny to prevent the muffins from sticking.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Whisking is essential here because it helps to evenly distribute the ingredients, preventing clumps of baking powder or baking soda that could result in uneven rising. The cinnamon adds a warm, comforting flavor that complements the sweetness of the sugar.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate, slightly larger mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, melted unsalted butter, large egg, and vanilla extract. Ensure that the butter is cooled slightly before adding it to the other wet ingredients; hot butter can partially cook the egg, leading to a less smooth batter. The milk provides moisture, the melted butter adds richness and tenderness, the egg helps bind the ingredients together, and the vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile.
Step 4: Gently Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients to Form the Batter
This is a critical step where patience and a gentle hand are key. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough, dense muffins. You want to mix only until the dry ingredients are moistened. A few streaks of flour are okay; they will disappear during baking.
The batter should be smooth but not overworked. The consistency should be thick enough to hold its shape when spooned into the muffin cups, but not so thick that it’s difficult to pour.
Step 5: Fill Muffin Cups and Bake to Golden Perfection
Carefully spoon the batter into the prepared muffin cups, filling each cup about ¾ full. This allows enough room for the muffins to rise without overflowing. Using an ice cream scoop or a measuring cup can help ensure that each muffin cup is filled evenly.
Place the filled muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. The muffins are done when they are golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be slightly firm to the touch, and the tops should spring back lightly when pressed.
Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
While the muffins are baking, prepare the cinnamon sugar topping. In a small bowl, combine the ¼ cup of granulated sugar with the 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Mix thoroughly until the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the sugar. This mixture will give the muffins their signature donut-like flavor and a delightful crunchy texture.
Melt the additional 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a separate small bowl. This melted butter will act as the adhesive for the cinnamon sugar topping, ensuring that it sticks to the muffins.
Step 7: Coat Warm Muffins with Butter and Cinnamon Sugar
Once the muffins are out of the oven, let them cool slightly in the muffin tin for a few minutes. This makes them easier to handle without falling apart. Then, gently remove each muffin from the tin and dip the top of the muffin into the melted butter, ensuring that it is well coated. Immediately roll the buttered top in the cinnamon sugar mixture, pressing lightly to help the sugar adhere.
The warmth of the muffins will help the butter melt and the cinnamon sugar stick, creating a deliciously sweet and crunchy coating.
Step 8: Let Cool Slightly and Serve Warm
Place the coated muffins on a wire rack to cool slightly before serving. They are best enjoyed warm when the muffins are at their fluffiest and the cinnamon sugar coating is still slightly gooey.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
- Easy and Quick: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings or last-minute sweet cravings.
- Nostalgic Flavor: The taste and aroma of these muffins evoke the comforting flavors of classic cinnamon sugar donuts, bringing back fond memories of childhood treats.
- Perfectly Fluffy Texture: The combination of baking powder and baking soda ensures a light, airy, and incredibly soft texture that melts in your mouth.
- Versatile: These muffins can be customized with various additions, such as chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of glaze, to suit your personal preferences.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving them to family, friends, or guests, these muffins are guaranteed to be a hit. Everyone loves the combination of fluffy cake and sweet cinnamon sugar.
Serving Suggestions:
- Breakfast Treat: Enjoy these muffins warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast treat.
- Brunch Staple: Serve them as part of a brunch spread alongside eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit.
- Dessert Option: These muffins make a satisfying dessert, especially when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Snack Time: They are perfect for an afternoon snack or a quick pick-me-up anytime you need a sweet treat.
- Gifting: Package them in a decorative box or basket to give as a homemade gift to friends, family, or neighbors.
Tips:
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter will result in tough muffins. Mix only until the dry ingredients are just moistened.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh baking powder and baking soda are essential for achieving a light and fluffy texture.
- Melted Butter Temperature: Ensure that the melted butter is cooled slightly before adding it to the wet ingredients to prevent cooking the egg.
- Even Filling: Use an ice cream scoop or measuring cup to fill the muffin cups evenly for uniform baking.
- Warm Muffins Best: These muffins are best enjoyed warm, as the cinnamon sugar coating is still slightly gooey and the muffins are at their fluffiest.
- Storage: Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Variations: Add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of glaze for added flavor and texture.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
Total Time: 28-30 minutes
Nutritional Information: (approximate, per muffin)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
Conclusion:
Grandma’s Fluffy Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins are a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of homemade baked goods with the ease of a quick and simple recipe. Whether you’re looking for a special breakfast, a sweet snack, or a crowd-pleasing dessert, these muffins are sure to satisfy. Their fluffy texture, warm cinnamon sugar coating, and nostalgic flavor make them a beloved favorite that will be enjoyed by all. This recipe is a testament to the fact that sometimes the simplest pleasures in life are the most delicious. Bake a batch today and experience the joy of these irresistible donut muffins!
Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of flour?
A: While all-purpose flour is recommended for its versatility and consistent results, you can experiment with other types of flour. For a slightly denser and nuttier muffin, you can use whole wheat flour, but you may need to adjust the liquid content as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture. Alternatively, you can use gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version, but be sure to use a blend that contains xanthan gum for binding.
Q2: Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make these muffins ahead of time, but they are best enjoyed fresh. If you want to prepare them in advance, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. To freeze, allow the muffins to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q3: Can I add other ingredients to the batter?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile and can be easily customized to suit your preferences. You can add chocolate chips, chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans), blueberries, or even a swirl of jam to the batter. Just be sure not to add too many additional ingredients, as this can affect the texture of the muffins.
Q4: What if I don’t have muffin liners?
A: If you don’t have muffin liners, you can simply grease the muffin tin very well with butter or cooking spray. Make sure to coat every nook and cranny to prevent the muffins from sticking. Alternatively, you can make your own parchment paper liners by cutting squares of parchment paper and pressing them into the muffin cups.
Q5: Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?
A: Yes, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe if you prefer a less sweet muffin. You can reduce the granulated sugar in the batter by up to ¼ cup without significantly affecting the texture. However, keep in mind that the sugar also contributes to the browning of the muffins, so reducing it may result in a slightly paler color. You can also reduce the amount of sugar in the cinnamon sugar topping if desired.
