Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Recipe

Flour: The base of the donut, providing structure and texture.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the donuts and is also used for coating.

Baking powder: Helps the donuts rise and become fluffy.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the donuts.

Ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with sugar.

Milk: Provides moisture and richness to the batter.

Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure.

Butter: Adds richness and flavor to the donuts.

Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with a sweet, aromatic note.

Vegetable oil: Keeps the donuts moist and tender.

Cinnamon sugar: A mixture of cinnamon and sugar used for coating the donuts, adding extra flavor and sweetness.

When mixing the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to dense and tough donuts. Stir until just combined to ensure a light and fluffy texture.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the donuts denser.

• sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.

• baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon cream of tartar for every 1 teaspoon of baking powder needed.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a slightly different mineral content and flavor.

• ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice includes cinnamon along with other spices like nutmeg and cloves, adding a more complex flavor.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in baking.

• large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoon water per egg. This is a vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients.

• unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a dairy-free alternative that adds a subtle coconut flavor.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but equally delightful flavor.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with applesauce: Unsweetened applesauce can reduce the fat content while keeping the donuts moist.

• cinnamon sugar - Substitute with maple sugar: Maple sugar adds a unique flavor and can be used in the same way as cinnamon sugar.

• Allow the donuts to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the donuts soggy.

• For short-term storage, place the donuts in an airtight container. Line the container with a paper towel, add a layer of donuts, and then place another paper towel on top before sealing. This helps to absorb any excess moisture.

• If you plan to enjoy the donuts within 2-3 days, keep the container at room temperature. Make sure to keep them away from direct sunlight and heat sources to maintain their freshness.

• For longer storage, you can refrigerate the donuts. Place them in an airtight container as described above. They should stay fresh for up to a week in the refrigerator. Before serving, you can warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back their soft texture.

• To freeze the donuts, first, flash freeze them by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze for about an hour or until they are solid. This prevents them from sticking together.

• Once frozen, transfer the donuts to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of their freshness. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the donuts at room temperature for about an hour. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore their freshly baked taste and texture.

• If you prefer a quicker method, microwave the frozen donuts for about 20-30 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make them tough.

• For an extra touch, you can re-coat the thawed or reheated donuts with a fresh layer of cinnamon sugar mixture to enhance their flavor and texture.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside.

• For a quicker method, use a microwave. Place the donuts on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the donuts rubbery.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 320°F (160°C). Place the donuts in the basket in a single layer. Heat for 3-4 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don’t overcook.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the donuts in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until warmed through. This method can help maintain a slightly crispy exterior.

• If you prefer a steam method, place the donuts in a steamer basket over simmering water. Cover and steam for 2-3 minutes. This method will keep the donuts moist but may soften the exterior.

• To add a touch of freshness, lightly brush the donuts with melted butter before reheating using any of the above methods. This can help revive the cinnamon sugar coating and enhance the flavor.

• Oven: Used to bake the donuts at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Donut pan: Specially designed pan with cavities to shape the batter into donuts.

• Mixing bowl: Large bowl to combine dry ingredients.

• Mixing bowl: Another bowl to whisk together wet ingredients.

• Whisk: Used to mix the wet ingredients thoroughly.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the flour, sugar, milk, and other ingredients.

• Measuring spoons: Used for precise measurement of baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.

• Spatula: Handy for folding the wet and dry ingredients together.

• Toothpick: Used to check if the donuts are baked through by inserting it into the donut; it should come out clean.

• Cooling rack: Allows the donuts to cool slightly before coating them with the cinnamon sugar mixture.

• Small bowl: Used to hold the cinnamon sugar mixture for coating the donuts.

• Pastry brush: Optional, but can be used to lightly brush the donuts with melted butter before coating them with the cinnamon sugar mixture.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and mix all dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately the night before.

Use a piping bag: Transfer the batter into a piping bag to fill the donut pan quickly and evenly.

Preheat oven early: Start preheating the oven while you mix the ingredients to save time.

Melt butter in microwave: Use the microwave to melt the butter faster.

Quick cooling: Place baked donuts on a wire rack to cool faster before coating.