Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts You’ll Love Today

If you’ve been craving a sweet treat that’s both comforting and effortless, these Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are exactly what you need. Perfectly crispy on the outside with a soft, fluffy center, they’re coated in just the right amount of warm cinnamon and sugar for that nostalgic, bakery-fresh taste. Whether it’s breakfast, snack time, or dessert, this recipe promises a quick, delicious delight that’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples that you probably already have on hand, making it a hassle-free recipe.
• Quick Preparation: You’ll have fresh donuts ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy days.
• Delightfully Crispy: Achieves the perfect balance of a crunchy exterior and a soft, airy inside.
• Customizable Flavors: Easy to tweak the cinnamon sugar coating or add mix-ins to tailor the taste to your preference.
• No Fancy Equipment Needed: You don’t need a donut maker or deep fryer—just a pan and basic kitchen tools.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind these Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts lies in their simple, straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a key role in achieving the right texture, flavor, and golden color that makes these donuts irresistible.

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure to keep your donuts fluffy and soft.
• Baking Powder: Acts as a leavening agent to give the donuts a light and airy rise.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness, both in the batter and on the cinnamon sugar coating.
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances the sweetness perfectly.
• Milk: Moisturizes the dough, ensuring the donuts stay tender inside.
• Egg: Binds ingredients together and contributes to a rich crumb.
• Butter: Adds flavor and helps achieve a golden, slightly crisp crust.
• Cinnamon: The star spice that lends warmth and depth to the sugar coating.
• Vegetable Oil: Used for frying to create a beautifully crisp finish.

Variations for Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

One of the best things about making Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts is how adaptable they are. Feel free to get creative and adjust the recipe to suit your taste, dietary needs, or whatever you have available in your pantry.

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend to keep these donuts safe for gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk and flax eggs instead of regular milk and eggs, and swap butter for coconut oil or vegan margarine.
• Spiced Variations: Add nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar mix for an extra burst of warm spices.
• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the cooled donuts for an indulgent twist.
• Stuffed Donuts: Fill the centers with jam, Nutella, or cream cheese before frying for a fun surprise inside.

How to Make Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Combine the dry ingredients in a mixing bowl—flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter, then gradually add to the dry mixture until a smooth dough forms.

Step 2: Shape the Donuts

Lightly flour your workspace and roll the dough to about 1/2 inch thick. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (one large, one small) to cut out donut shapes and holes.

Step 3: Heat the Oil and Fry

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan or skillet to about 350°F (175°C). Fry the donuts in batches for 1-2 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and puffed up.

Step 4: Drain and Coat

Transfer the fried donuts to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. While still warm, toss the donuts in a bowl of cinnamon sugar to coat evenly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor, savoring the warmth of freshly coated cinnamon sugar.

Pro Tips for Making Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: It helps the dough come together more smoothly and evenly.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry donuts in small batches to keep the oil temperature consistent for even cooking.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays around 350°F, preventing greasy or undercooked donuts.
• Drain Properly: Let the donuts rest on paper towels immediately after frying to soak up excess oil for a lighter donut.
• Toss While Warm: Cinnamon sugar sticks best to warm donuts, so coat them right after frying.

How to Serve Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra cinnamon sugar on top or dust lightly with powdered sugar for added sweetness and a pretty finish. You can also top with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for extra indulgence.

Side Dishes

Pair your donuts with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or warm apple cider to complement their sweet, cinnamon-spiced flavor perfectly. Fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream also makes a great accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these donuts on a wooden board or colorful plate stacked tall for a charming breakfast centerpiece. For special occasions, consider adding edible flowers or a sprinkle of chopped nuts to add texture and visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. However, their fresh crispy texture is best enjoyed the day they’re made.

Freezing

To freeze, place cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 1 month without losing quality.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or stored donuts in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or until warm and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make the donuts soggy.

FAQs

Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?

Yes! You can bake these donuts at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes until golden. While they won’t have the same crisp fried texture, baking is a healthier and convenient alternative.

What type of cinnamon is best for the cinnamon sugar?

Ceylon cinnamon is milder and sweeter, while Cassia cinnamon is stronger and more common in stores; either works beautifully in this recipe.

Can I use a different sweetener for the coating?

Absolutely! Substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar, brown sugar, or even a sugar substitute like erythritol to customize sweetness levels.

How do I know when the oil is the right temperature for frying?

Using a kitchen thermometer is best, but if you don’t have one, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; it should sizzle rapidly and float to the surface quickly without burning.

Are these donuts safe for kids?

Yes, these Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are made with simple, wholesome ingredients and are perfect as an occasional sweet treat for kids under supervision while frying.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the joy of biting into a warm, fluffy donut dusted with cinnamon sugar, especially when it’s made easily at home with this simple recipe. These Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are a perfect way to bring a touch of comfort and sweetness to any day with minimal fuss. Grab your ingredients, give this recipe a try, and watch how quickly they disappear—trust me, you’re going to love them!

Related Posts

• Irresistible Sourdough Brownie Recipe to Try Today
• Why Ultimate Homemade Sourdough Brownies Taste Best
• 5 Irresistible Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes to Try

Print