Dessert

Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Recipe

Bylina moretti March 12, 2026March 12, 2026

Introduction

These cinnamon sugar donuts are a delightful treat that’s quick to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Whether baked or fried, they come out soft, fluffy, and coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar blend that everyone will love.

Four cinnamon sugar donuts with a light golden brown color are stacked closely on a white plate. Each donut is coated evenly with a fine layer of cinnamon sugar, giving them a slightly grainy texture and a warm brown hue. The surface of the donuts has a soft, fluffy look with small specks of sugar crystals visible, and the plate shows some scattered cinnamon sugar around the edges. The background features a white marbled texture, adding a clean and simple look to the image. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for coating)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan if baking. If frying, heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 3: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts tender.
Step 4: For baking, spoon the batter into the donut pan cavities about two-thirds full. Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean. For frying, pipe donut shapes onto parchment paper then carefully transfer to hot oil and fry 1–2 minutes per side until golden. Drain on paper towels.
Step 5: Mix the cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl. While the donuts are warm, brush them with melted butter and roll them in the cinnamon sugar until fully coated.
Step 6: Serve the donuts warm for the best flavor and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the dough mixture.
Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for a tangier, softer donut.
Try dipping the donuts in chocolate glaze instead of cinnamon sugar for a twist.
If frying, maintain the oil temperature to avoid greasy donuts.

Storage

Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven to restore softness. Donuts are best enjoyed fresh.

How to Serve

Four round cinnamon sugar-coated donuts are stacked closely on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. Each donut has a light golden-brown dough base with a rough texture, thickly covered in a layer of fine, grainy cinnamon sugar giving a speckled look with shades of brown and white. The donuts are arranged in a tight cluster with one donut in the front center and the others slightly behind, angled to show the round holes in their centers. Some cinnamon sugar is scattered lightly around the plate adding a casual touch. The lighting is soft and natural, highlighting the sugar crystals and the warm color of the donuts. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these donuts vegan?

You can substitute the eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based milk and vegan butter to make these donuts vegan-friendly, though texture may vary slightly.

Is it better to bake or fry the donuts?

Baking is healthier and easier, producing light and fluffy donuts, while frying gives a classic crisp exterior and richer flavor. Both methods work well depending on your preference.