Name: Cinnamon Sugar Donuts with Creamy Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup granulated sugar; 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon cinnamon; ½ cup warm milk (110°F); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract; ½ cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon cinnamon; 3 tablespoons melted butter; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons milk; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

These Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are soft, fluffy, and coated in a sweet, spiced cinnamon-sugar mixture. Whether baked or fried, they’re perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a sweet treat with coffee. With simple ingredients and an easy method, you’ll have warm, homemade donuts in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: No yeast required, meaning faster prep and bake time.
Soft & Fluffy: Perfectly tender with a slightly crispy exterior.
Classic Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: The perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
Versatile: Can be fried for a traditional taste or baked for a lighter option.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Donuts:

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Salt
Granulated sugar
Butter, melted
Milk
Eggs
Vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

Granulated sugar
Cinnamon
Butter, melted (for brushing)

Directions

For Baked Donuts:

Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan.
Make the Batter: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. In another bowl, mix melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla. Combine wet and dry ingredients until smooth.
Fill the Pan: Pipe or spoon batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool slightly.
Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Brush warm donuts with melted butter and dip in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

For Fried Donuts:

Prepare the Dough: Follow the same batter steps as above.
Heat the Oil: In a deep pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
Fry the Donuts: Carefully drop spoonfuls of batter or shaped donuts into the hot oil, frying for about 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: While still warm, roll the donuts in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 donuts
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes (baked) or 5 minutes (fried)
Total Time: 25 minutes (baked) or 15 minutes (fried)

Variations

Stuffed Donuts: Fill with jam, chocolate, or cream after baking/frying.
Glazed Version: Instead of cinnamon sugar, dip in a simple vanilla or maple glaze.
Spiced Flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice for extra warmth.
Healthier Option: Use whole wheat flour and bake instead of frying.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze uncoated donuts for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before coating in cinnamon sugar.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes! Store the batter in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking or frying.

Can I use a muffin pan instead of a donut pan?

Yes, you can bake them as donut muffins and roll them in cinnamon sugar after baking.

How do I prevent my fried donuts from absorbing too much oil?

Ensure the oil is at the right temperature (350°F) and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I make these without eggs?

Yes! Substitute eggs with applesauce or a flax egg.

What oil is best for frying?

Use neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.

Why are my baked donuts dry?

Be sure not to overmix the batter and remove them from the oven as soon as they are done.

Can I make mini donuts with this recipe?

Yes, adjust the baking time to about 8-10 minutes for mini donut pans.

Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

Yes, brown sugar adds a deeper caramel-like flavor.

Do I need to let the donuts cool before coating?

No, they should still be warm so the cinnamon sugar sticks well.

What pairs well with these donuts?

Coffee, hot chocolate, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream make great pairings!

Conclusion

Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are a classic, easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you bake or fry them, they turn out soft, fluffy, and coated in a delicious cinnamon-sugar topping. Enjoy them fresh and warm for the ultimate homemade donut experience!