These fluffy cinnamon sugar donut muffins bring the cozy comfort of old-fashioned donuts straight from the oven, without the need for frying. Soft on the inside, lightly crisp on the outside, and coated in buttery cinnamon sugar, they are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These muffins are quick and easy to prepare using simple pantry ingredients. They deliver the nostalgic taste of classic cinnamon sugar donuts with a soft, tender crumb. No yeast, no frying, and no special equipment are required, making them ideal for both beginner and experienced bakers. They also stay moist and flavorful for days.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the muffins
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the cinnamon sugar coating
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a standard 12-cup muffin pan or line it with paper liners.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
In a separate bowl, mix the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently just until combined. Do not overmix, as this can make the muffins dense.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the muffins are baking, prepare the coating by mixing the sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Place the melted butter in another bowl.
Once baked, allow the muffins to cool for 5 minutes. Remove each muffin, dip it into the melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
Allow the muffins to cool slightly before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 12 muffins.
Preparation time is about 10 minutes.
Baking time is 15 to 18 minutes.
Total time is approximately 30 minutes.
Variations
You can add a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for extra warmth. Mini chocolate chips can be folded into the batter for a sweet twist. For a lighter coating, brush the muffins with butter instead of fully dipping them. You can also make mini muffins by reducing the baking time to 10 to 12 minutes.
Storage/Reheating
Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or in a low oven until just heated through.
FAQs
Can I make these muffins ahead of time?
Yes, they can be baked a day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Can I freeze cinnamon sugar donut muffins?
Yes, freeze them uncoated for best results. Add the butter and cinnamon sugar coating after thawing.
Why are my muffins not fluffy?
Overmixing the batter can cause dense muffins. Mix only until the ingredients are combined.
Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute the melted butter with an equal amount of neutral oil, though butter provides better flavor.
What type of milk works best?
Whole milk is ideal, but low-fat or plant-based milk can also be used.
Can I reduce the sugar in the batter?
You can reduce it slightly, but keep in mind it will affect both texture and sweetness.
Do I need a muffin liner?
No, greasing the muffin pan well works just fine.
Can I add fruit to this recipe?
Yes, small diced apples or blueberries can be folded gently into the batter.
How do I keep the coating from soaking in?
Let the muffins cool slightly before dipping them in butter so the coating stays on the surface.
Are these muffins suitable for kids?
Yes, they are soft, sweet, and very kid-friendly.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Fluffy Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins are a simple yet irresistible treat that brings classic bakery flavors into your home kitchen. With their tender texture and sweet cinnamon coating, they are sure to become a family favorite for any occasion.
Grandma’s Fluffy Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins are soft, tender, and coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar topping, delivering all the flavors of classic donuts without frying. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy snack.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup milk
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the cinnamon sugar coating:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a standard 12-cup muffin pan or line it with paper liners.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
In a separate bowl, mix the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently just until combined. Do not overmix.
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about three-quarters full.
Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While baking, prepare the coating by mixing sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl and placing melted butter in another bowl.
Let muffins cool for 5 minutes. Dip each muffin in melted butter, then roll in cinnamon sugar until fully coated.
Cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
Fold in mini chocolate chips for a sweet variation.
Brush muffins with butter for a lighter coating.
Make mini muffins by reducing baking time to 10–12 minutes.
Best served warm, but also tasty at room temperature.
