Donut Muffins

ByYummy Recipes

If you’re craving the cozy, nostalgic flavor of a cinnamon sugar donut but want the ease and simplicity of baking at home—Donut Muffins are your perfect match. These tender, buttery muffins taste like the inside of your favorite old-fashioned donut, complete with a crackly cinnamon sugar coating that delivers just the right amount of sweetness and spice. No frying, no yeast, no complicated steps—just pure comfort in every bite.

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, afternoon snacks, or dessert, donut muffins are one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again. They’re made with pantry staples, ready in under 30 minutes, and can be customized with jam fillings, glaze toppings, or even a cream cheese swirl. Whether you serve them warm straight from the oven or make a batch ahead for the week, these muffins will become a staple in your baking rotation.

Why You’ll Love These Donut Muffins

  • Tastes Like a Donut, Bakes Like a Muffin: All the flavor, none of the frying.
  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
  • Perfect Texture: Soft, fluffy interior with a slightly crisp cinnamon sugar coating.
  • Great for Any Time of Day: Breakfast, snack, brunch, or dessert.
  • Kid and Crowd Friendly: Bite-sized and sweet—everyone loves them.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Muffins:

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

  • 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

How to Make Donut Muffins

Step 1: Prep Your Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper liners.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy—about 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Dairy

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract. Mix in the sour cream. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix.

Step 5: Fill Muffin Tin

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups—filling each about 3/4 full.

Step 6: Bake

Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 7: Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While muffins are still slightly warm, dip the tops in melted butter, then roll or sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Delicious Variations

  • Jam-Filled Donut Muffins: Fill each muffin halfway with batter, add a small spoonful of jam, then top with more batter.
  • Glazed Donut Muffins: Instead of cinnamon sugar, dip cooled muffins in vanilla or chocolate glaze.
  • Apple Cinnamon Version: Fold in 1/2 cup finely chopped apples for a fall twist.
  • Lemon Sugar Coating: Add lemon zest to the sugar for a citrusy pop.
  • Mini Muffins: Make bite-sized versions in a mini muffin tin—reduce baking time to 12–14 minutes.

How to Serve Donut Muffins

  • With Coffee or Tea: A perfect partner to your morning brew.
  • Brunch Boards: Add to a mix of pastries, fruit, and yogurt for a DIY spread.
  • For Dessert: Pair with ice cream, whipped cream, or fruit compote.
  • Pack for School or Work: They travel well and stay moist for days.
  • Holiday Mornings: Make a festive batch for Christmas, Easter, or birthdays.

Tips for the Best Muffins

  • Room Temp Ingredients: Helps everything blend smoothly.
  • Don’t Overmix: Stir until just combined for tender muffins.
  • Bake Immediately: Once mixed, get them into the oven right away for the best rise.
  • Use Quality Cinnamon: It’s the star of the coating—go for bold flavor.
  • Coat While Warm: The butter and sugar adhere best when muffins are still warm.

Storage & Reheating

  • Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Fridge: Keeps up to 5 days—but may dry slightly, so microwave for a few seconds before eating.
  • Freezer: Freeze muffins (uncoated) for up to 2 months. Thaw and coat in butter and cinnamon sugar before serving.
  • Reheat: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or toast lightly for a crisp edge.

Nutritional Information (Per Muffin, Approximate)

  • Calories: 240
  • Carbs: 29g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 180mg

Recipe Summary

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 muffins

FAQs

Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt is a great substitute.

Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes—use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and a dairy-free yogurt or sour cream alternative.

Do I need to dip the whole muffin in butter?
No, just the tops are fine—but if you want full coverage, go for it!

What’s the best bread to mimic a real donut texture?
This recipe uses a muffin batter, but the texture is very close to cake donuts—soft, dense, and tender.

How do I make them extra moist?
Don’t overbake and use full-fat dairy for the richest results.

Conclusion

Donut Muffins are the kind of cozy, crowd-pleasing treat you’ll want to keep in your back pocket. They deliver all the cinnamon-sugar joy of a classic donut with the convenience of muffins—no frying, no waiting, no special tools. Whether you’re making a batch for Sunday brunch, weekday snacks, or a fun holiday breakfast, these golden gems promise to disappear fast. Try them once, and they’re guaranteed to become a favorite in your baking rotation.

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