Name: Cinnamon Sugar Donuts That Melt in Your Mouth at Home
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Almond or Oat Milk (Any plant-based milk can be used.); 1/4 cup Melted Vegan Butter (Can use coconut oil as an alternative.); 1/2 cup Sugar (Granulated or coconut sugar works well.); 2 teaspoons Baking Powder (Acts as a leavening agent.); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Helps with rising.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Almond extract can be used for a twist.); 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Use gluten-free flour if needed.); 1 tablespoon Cinnamon (Adjust to taste for cinnamon goodness.); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Can mix in brown sugar for flavor.); 1 tablespoon Cinnamon (Adjust according to preference.)

The warm scent of cinnamon wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to cozy mornings filled with joy and sweetness. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Cinnamon Sugar Donuts, a delightful vegan alternative that combines indulgence with simplicity. These fluffy treats are not only a healthier choice than traditional fried donuts, but they’re also quick to whip up—perfect for anyone tired of fast food! With a crunchy cinnamon-sugar crust that hugs their soft, tender insides, each bite feels like a comforting hug from home. Whether you’re a seasoned home-chef or just starting your cooking journey, I promise these delightful donuts will awaken your passion for homemade food. Ready to fill your kitchen with warmth and deliciousness? Let’s dive into this scrumptious adventure together!

Why are Cinnamon Sugar Donuts irresistible?

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Delight: These Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are soft, fluffy, and provide a warm, comforting experience with each bite.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can master this recipe in no time.
Vegan and Healthy: Indulge without guilt—these donuts are vegan-friendly and can be easily adapted to suit gluten-free diets.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of sweet cinnamon and sugar creates a mouthwatering treat perfect for family gatherings or brunch.
Versatile Options: Feel free to mix in spices, drizzle some chocolate, or serve with fresh fruit to elevate your donut experience. If you’re looking for more morning inspiration, check out these Cinnamon Roll Breakfast Skewers for a new spin on breakfast!

Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Ingredients

Discover the simple, wholesome ingredients that make these cinnamon sugar donuts a must-try!

For the Batter

Almond or Oat Milk – Provides moisture and binds ingredients; feel free to substitute with any plant-based milk you prefer.
Melted Vegan Butter – Adds richness and flavor; you can use coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
Sugar – Sweetens the batter; both granulated or coconut sugar work well here.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent for that light, fluffy texture we adore.
Baking Soda – Combines with acidic components for an extra lift.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses the donuts with a delightful flavor; almond extract offers a unique twist if you’d like to experiment.
All-Purpose Flour – Serves as the main structural component; opt for gluten-free flour blends if needed.
Cinnamon – This primary spice enhances flavor and is crucial for the signature coating; adjust to your taste—more means more cinnamon goodness!

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the exterior, enriching the cinnamon flavor; feel free to mix in brown sugar for a deeper taste.
Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice to the sugar mixture; feel free to increase or decrease according to your preference.

Enjoy these Cinnamon Sugar Donuts fresh from your oven and revel in the warm, nostalgic flavors of homemade goodness!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your Cinnamon Sugar Donuts will bake evenly and develop a lovely golden hue. While the oven warms up, gather all your ingredients and equipment, including a mixing bowl and donut molds, so you’re ready for the next steps.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the almond or oat milk, melted vegan butter, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and vanilla extract. Using a whisk, blend these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well combined, taking about 2-3 minutes. The combined mixture should look glossy and inviting, signaling that it’s ready for the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Create the Batter
Gradually sift in the all-purpose flour, mixing gently with a spatula. Stir the batter until it forms a thick yet scoopable consistency, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to overmix, as this ensures your Cinnamon Sugar Donuts remain fluffy and tender. The batter should be slightly lumpy but cohesive.

Step 4: Prepare the Donut Molds
Lightly grease your donut molds with a touch of vegan butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Use a spoon or a piping bag to fill each cavity about three-quarters full with the donut batter, ensuring even distribution. This allows room for rising during baking, creating those delightful donut shapes we love.

Step 5: Bake the Donuts
Place the filled donut molds in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they have puffed up and turned a lovely golden brown. To check, gently press the tops of the donuts; they should spring back lightly. Remove from the oven and let cool in the molds for about 5 minutes.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the donuts cool, combine granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl, mixing well with a fork. This delicious blend will create the perfect sweet, spiced crust for your freshly baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts. Set the bowl aside, ready to coat those warm donuts.

Step 7: Coat the Warm Donuts
After cooling briefly, brush each donut with melted vegan butter while they are still warm, allowing for optimal adherence. Then, gently roll each donut in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until thoroughly coated. The warm, gooey butter helps to create that irresistible sugary crust that makes these donuts so delightful.

Step 8: Serve and Savor
Your Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are now ready to serve! Place them on a plate and enjoy their fluffy texture and warm flavors. Best enjoyed fresh, these donuts can also be stored for later in an airtight container for up to two days, inviting you back for a warm, comforting treat every time!

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Room Temperature: Keep Cinnamon Sugar Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their softness and flavor.

Fridge: For extended freshness, store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat briefly in a microwave to restore their warm, fluffy texture.

Freezer: Freeze your donuts in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. Thaw them at room temperature when ready to enjoy!

Reheating: To enjoy your donuts, reheat in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a toaster oven for a few minutes, bringing back their delightful warmth.

Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Variations

There’s plenty of room to get creative with these delicious treats, so feel free to experiment!

Nutmeg Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for a warm, aromatic twist that will awaken your taste buds. This lovely spice pairs beautifully with cinnamon, enriching every bite with depth.
Chocolate Drizzle: For a touch of indulgence, melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle it over each donut before serving. This delightful addition elevates the flavor, creating a sweet experience that’s hard to resist.
Pumpkin Spice: Substitute in pumpkin spice for an autumn-inspired version of these donuts. The sweet and spiced flavor combination will make your kitchen smell as cozy as a fall day!
Coconut Sugar: Swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness that not only tastes great but adds a touch of healthiness to your donuts. It’s an easy switch that will delight your taste buds!
Almond Extract: Trade vanilla extract for almond extract to give your donuts a wonderful, nutty flavor. This subtle change creates an aromatic twist that’s sure to surprise and please.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary restrictions while keeping all the fluffiness. You’d be amazed at how such a simple swap can still yield fantastic results!
Chili Infusion: For those who love a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne or ground chipotle to the cinnamon-sugar coating. This unexpected heat will provide a thrilling contrast to the sweetness!
Fruit-Filled: Experiment by adding small diced apples or mashed bananas into the batter for a fruity touch. It introduces a delightful burst of flavor that perfectly complements the cinnamon sugar coating.

For more delightful breakfast ideas, make sure to check out these Cinnamon Roll Breakfast Skewers and other inspiring recipes that are bound to spruce up your mornings!

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Avoid Overmixing: Gentle mixing is key! Overmixing can lead to dense donuts, so stir just until combined for that fluffy texture.
Warm Butter Coating: Brush the donuts with melted butter while they’re still warm. This allows the cinnamon sugar to stick better, ensuring every bite is sweet.
Proper Spacing: Don’t overcrowd the baking tray. Leaving space between the donuts promotes even baking and prevents them from sticking together.
Storage Savvy: For the best taste, enjoy your Cinnamon Sugar Donuts fresh, but if you need to store them, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.
Try Different Flavors: Experiment with spices! Adding nutmeg or a bit of pumpkin spice to the batter can transform your donuts each time you make them.

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the donut batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator (just make sure to cover it tightly). On the day you plan to serve, preheat your oven and fill your donut molds to bake as usual—this keeps the donuts fresh and fluffy. Additionally, you can mix the cinnamon sugar coating ahead of time and store it in a sealed container, which makes for quick assembly. When ready to indulge, brush the donuts with melted vegan butter and coat them in the cinnamon sugar mix for that irresistible crunchy exterior, ensuring each bite is just as delicious as freshly made!

What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

The sweetness of freshly baked donuts creates the perfect opportunity to craft a full, delightful spread that warms the heart and lifts the spirit.

Fresh Fruit: The bright juiciness of berries or slices of banana balance the sweetness of donuts, adding a refreshing contrast.
Chai Lattes: The spices in chai pair beautifully with the warm cinnamon flavors, creating a cozy beverage that enhances every bite.
Hot Coffee: A comforting cup of coffee complements the sweetness, adding a rich depth that pairs perfectly with the sugary, fluffy donuts.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: For a decadent touch, serve your donuts with warm maple syrup for dipping, transforming them into a brunch-time indulgence.
Coconut Yogurt: Creamy coconut yogurt brings a lusciousness to the table, and its tanginess pairs well with the sweet, spiced donuts.
Milkshakes: Treat yourself with a rich, creamy milkshake that provides a fun and indulgent pairing, making for a delightful dessert experience.

Embrace the joy of combining flavors and textures with these accompaniments, turning your Cinnamon Sugar Donuts into a full-on delicious celebration.

Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best almond or oat milk for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing almond or oat milk, look for unsweetened varieties to control the sugar level in your Cinnamon Sugar Donuts. For a creamier texture, I recommend almond milk that has been fortified with vitamins and extra protein. If you’re open to experimenting, try flavored options like vanilla almond milk for a lovely twist!

What is the best way to store leftover donuts?
For optimal tastiness, place your Cinnamon Sugar Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat them in the microwave briefly to restore their warm, fluffy charm!

Can I freeze Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?
Absolutely! To freeze your donuts, let them cool completely before placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet. After a couple of hours, once they’re frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month! When you’re ready to enjoy, just let them thaw at room temperature, or pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

What should I do if my donut batter is too thick?
No worries! If your batter seems too thick, try adding a tablespoon of almond or oat milk gradually until you reach the right consistency—a thick but scoopable batter is perfect for these Cinnamon Sugar Donuts. Just be careful not to overmix; gentle stirring keeps them light and fluffy!

Are these donuts suitable for those with allergies?
Very! This recipe is vegan-friendly, which naturally excludes dairy, and you can easily adapt it to be gluten-free by using a suitable gluten-free flour blend. Always check the labels on your ingredients to make sure they don’t contain allergens, and feel free to swap ingredients based on personal dietary needs.

How do I know when my donuts are fully baked?
To ensure your Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are baked to perfection, look for a beautiful golden color and give them a gentle press on top; they should spring back lightly. You can also use a toothpick—insert it into the donut, and if it comes out clean, you’re good to go! Enjoy your baking!