Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins

Soft, fluffy, and coated in a buttery cinnamon-sugar layer, these Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins are a treat that combines the best of muffins and donuts! Easy to whip up, they’re perfect for breakfast, snacks, or gifting during the holidays.

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Did You Know?

Donuts have been enjoyed for centuries, dating back to Dutch settlers who brought the concept of “olykoeks” (oily cakes) to America. Baking them as muffins simplifies the process while keeping all the nostalgic flavor and charm.

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Yield
12 muffins

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Ingredients

For the Muffins:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, milk, and Greek yogurt. Mix until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Step 5: Fill and Bake
Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the muffins cool slightly, melt the butter for the coating in a small bowl. In another bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon.

Step 7: Coat the Muffins
Brush each warm muffin generously with melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Let the muffins cool completely, or serve warm for the ultimate treat.

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Nutritional Information (Per Muffin)
Calories: 220, Protein: 3g, Carbohydrates: 30g, Fiber: 1g, Net Carbohydrates: 29g, Fat: 10g, Saturated Fat: 6g, Cholesterol: 45mg, Sodium: 160mg, Sugars: 18g, Glycemic Index: Moderate

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Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money

1. Use Room-Temperature Ingredients
   This ensures the batter mixes evenly for fluffier muffins.

2. Double the Recipe
   These muffins freeze beautifully—make extra and freeze for up to 2 months.

3. Try Different Coatings
   Swap the cinnamon sugar for powdered sugar or a glaze for a different twist.

4. Gift It!
   Package the muffins in festive boxes or tins for a thoughtful holiday gift.

5. Make Mini Muffins
   Use a mini muffin tin for bite-sized treats; reduce baking time to 10–12 minutes.

6. Add Mix-Ins
   Stir in mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra flavor and texture.

7. Use Whole Wheat Flour
   Replace half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a heartier version.

8. Keep Them Warm
   Store in a warm oven (low heat) if serving at a party or brunch.

9. Use Leftover Cinnamon Sugar
   Sprinkle it on toast or oatmeal for a quick flavor boost.

10. Make it Dairy-Free
    Substitute plant-based milk and butter to make these muffins dairy-free.

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Let’s Learn About Cinnamon and Sugar

The combination of cinnamon and sugar has been a beloved pairing for centuries. Cinnamon, known for its warm and spicy aroma, complements the sweetness of sugar perfectly. Together, they add a comforting, nostalgic flavor to desserts and baked goods, making them a timeless choice for cozy treats like these muffins.