Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: 10-Minute Delight Everyone Loves

Name: Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: 10-Minute Delight Everyone Loves
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 large egg (room temperature); 1/3 cup (65g) packed light brown sugar; 1/4 cup (60ml) milk (any kind); 1/4 cup (60g) yogurt (plain or vanilla, Greek or regular); 2 tbsp (28g) unsalted butter, melted; 1½ tsp pure vanilla extract; 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

🍩 Introduction: Wake Up to the Sweet Smell of Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

There’s something undeniably magical about waking up to the scent of warm cinnamon and sugar wafting through the house. It’s the kind of cozy, nostalgic aroma that pulls you straight into the kitchen — barefoot and half-awake — just to sneak a taste. And the best part? You don’t need a deep fryer or a bakery trip to get that experience. With this easy Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts recipe, you can whip up soft, fluffy donuts right from your oven in just 10 minutes of bake time.

Whether you’re treating your weekend brunch crew, baking with the kids, or simply indulging in a quiet moment with coffee, these Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts strike the perfect balance between classic flavor and homemade simplicity. Plus, since they’re baked, not fried, you get all the comfort without the extra oil — a sweet win all around.

❓ What Are Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts?

Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are the perfect crossroad where classic comfort meets modern convenience. Unlike their deep-fried counterparts, these donuts are made using a donut pan and baked in the oven — no messy oil or frying required. The result? A delightfully soft, fluffy pastry with a slightly crisp exterior, coated generously in melted butter and a warm cinnamon-sugar blend.

While traditional donuts are known for their indulgent, sometimes greasy texture, baked donuts offer a lighter bite without sacrificing flavor. The combination of cinnamon and nutmeg gives these donuts a cozy, spiced depth reminiscent of fall mornings or festive holidays, but they’re truly delicious year-round.

One of the best things about Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts is how versatile and beginner-friendly they are. With simple pantry ingredients and a quick prep time, anyone — even novice bakers — can create bakery-worthy results at home. Plus, the baked method makes them a slightly healthier alternative, ideal for those who want the taste of a donut without the deep-fry guilt.

Whether served warm with a cup of coffee, as a brunch treat, or a sweet after-school snack, these donuts bring instant joy with every bite.

🧾 Ingredients Needed for Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Crafting the perfect Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts at home is easier than you think — and it all starts with a handful of everyday ingredients. Let’s break it down so you know exactly what goes into making these sweet, spiced, and ultra-fluffy treats.

🍞 Dry Ingredients

1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
This forms the base of your donut batter. Be sure to spoon and level for best results to avoid overly dense donuts.
1 teaspoon baking powder + 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
These leavening agents are what give your Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts their rise and tender crumb.
1/2 teaspoon salt
A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon + 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
These warming spices give the donuts their signature flavor. Cinnamon adds sweetness, while nutmeg brings a subtle depth that makes these donuts feel bakery-worthy.

🥛 Wet Ingredients

1 large egg (at room temperature)
Provides structure and richness. Room temp eggs help the batter mix more smoothly.
1/3 cup (65g) packed light brown sugar
Adds sweetness with a hint of molasses — perfect for that warm, caramelized flavor in every bite.
1/4 cup (60ml) milk
Keeps the batter moist.
✅ Use any milk: dairy, almond, soy, coconut, oat — they all work!
1/4 cup (60g) yogurt
Yogurt adds moisture and tenderness.
✅ Options: Plain or vanilla, Greek or regular, dairy or plant-based — your choice!
2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted
Rich flavor and soft texture come from a touch of butter.
✅ Dairy-free? Use melted coconut oil or vegan butter instead.
1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Rounds out the flavors with classic sweetness.

🍩 Topping: The Cinnamon Sugar Coating

1 cup (200g) granulated sugar + 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
This simple blend delivers the donut shop sparkle and sweet spice we all crave.
1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
The secret to getting that coating to stick — and taste amazing.
✅ Substitute: Vegan butter or neutral oil works, too.

These ingredients are the building blocks of the soft, moist texture and irresistible flavor in Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts. Whether you’re going for traditional or dairy-free, the substitutions make it easy to adapt without sacrificing taste.

"Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts ingredients displayed on marble counter with natural light" — **Don’t miss out—share and pin this recipe on Pinterest today!**

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Making homemade Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts is easier than you think, especially with a donut pan and this foolproof process. Follow these step-by-step instructions to guarantee golden, fluffy results every time.

🔥 1. Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Lightly grease a donut pan with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.

✅ Tip: If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin — the result will still be delicious!

🥣 2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg

Set this bowl aside. These dry ingredients give your Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts their signature soft texture and cozy spice flavor.

🧁 3. Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate large bowl, whisk until smooth:

1 large egg
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup milk
1/4 cup yogurt

Then, add:

2 tablespoons melted butter
1½ teaspoons vanilla extract

Whisk again until fully combined.

✅ Pro Tip: Room-temperature ingredients mix more easily and help your donuts bake evenly.

🌀 4. Bring the Batter Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined — the batter will be thick.

❗ Do not overmix! Overmixing can make your Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts tough instead of fluffy.

🥄 5. Fill the Donut Pan

Spoon the batter into a large zip-top bag or piping bag. Snip off one corner and pipe the batter into each cavity of your donut pan, filling each about 2/3 to 3/4 full.

✅ Why pipe? It gives you even, mess-free donuts with smooth, rounded tops.

⏲️ 6. Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 9–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool in the pan for 2 minutes, then gently transfer the donuts to a wire rack to cool completely before topping.

🍩 7. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

Once the donuts are cool enough to handle but still slightly warm:

Melt 1/2 cup butter in a bowl.
Mix 1 cup granulated sugar with 1 tsp cinnamon in another bowl.
Dip each donut in the melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat all sides.

✅ Double Dip Hack: Want extra crunch and flavor? Dip, roll, and repeat!

"Piping thick cinnamon sugar donut batter into a nonstick donut pan before baking" — **Don’t miss out—share and pin this recipe on Pinterest today!**

💡 Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Even though Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are simple to make, a few expert tricks can take your batch from good to unforgettable. Whether you’re a weekend baker or a total beginner, these tips will help you nail that soft interior, golden finish, and flavorful coating every time.

🧈 1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients

Cold ingredients (especially eggs, yogurt, and milk) can cause the batter to clump and prevent even baking. Let them sit out for about 30 minutes before starting. This one step helps your Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts bake up smooth and fluffy.

🌀 2. Don’t Overmix the Batter

After combining wet and dry ingredients, stir only until everything is just mixed. Overmixing activates the gluten in the flour, which can lead to dense, rubbery donuts instead of light and tender ones.

🧁 3. Use a Zip-Top Bag for Easy Filling

Pouring thick donut batter into a pan can get messy. A large zip-top bag with the corner snipped off (or a piping bag) gives you total control when filling the donut cavities — no spills, no stress, and perfectly shaped donuts every time.

🕒 4. Don’t Overbake

Keep a close eye on the oven. These donuts only need 9–10 minutes! Overbaking can dry them out and give them a muffin-like texture. Check for light golden edges and a toothpick that comes out clean.

🔁 5. Coat While Warm

Dip your Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts in butter and cinnamon sugar while they’re still slightly warm. The warmth helps the butter soak in and the sugar stick evenly for maximum flavor and texture.

✅ Want extra flavor? Roll them in cinnamon sugar twice — once after baking and again after a few minutes of cooling.

🧼 6. Clean the Pan Between Batches

If you’re making more than one batch, wipe your donut pan clean and re-grease it before refilling. This helps every donut come out cleanly without burnt bits or sticking.

🧂 7. Enhance the Spice Mix

Want a little more depth? Add a pinch of cloves or allspice to the batter for a slightly richer spice profile. You can even swap cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice during the fall season.

These expert baking tips ensure that your Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts come out consistently perfect — soft, spiced, and sugar-dusted with love.

🔄 Variations & Dietary Swaps for Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

The beauty of Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts lies in their versatility. Whether you’re adjusting for dietary needs, seasonal flavors, or just want to shake things up, here are some delicious variations to make this recipe your own.

🧁 1. Muffin-Style Cinnamon Sugar Treats

No donut pan? No problem. This exact batter works beautifully in a standard muffin tin.

How: Fill muffin cups 3/4 full and bake for 18–20 minutes.
Tip: Brush the tops with melted butter and roll them in cinnamon sugar while still warm.

✅ Great for brunch spreads or grab-and-go snacks!

🧒 2. Mini Donuts for Smaller Bites

Perfect for parties, kids, or portion control.

How: Use a mini donut pan and bake for just 7–8 minutes.
Bonus: Double-dip them in cinnamon sugar for maximum sweetness in a tiny bite.

🍁 3. Fall-Inspired Donuts (Pumpkin or Apple Cider)

Add seasonal flavor with just one substitution.

Pumpkin Spice Version: Replace yogurt with canned pumpkin puree and add 1/2 tsp pumpkin spice.
Apple Cider Donuts: Use apple cider in place of milk for a fruity twist.

🍂 These versions are especially popular during autumn baking season!

🌱 4. Vegan Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Easily adapt this recipe to be fully plant-based.

Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water).
Use non-dairy yogurt and milk (like almond, soy, or oat).
Swap butter with vegan butter or melted coconut oil.

You’ll still get fluffy, tender Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts — no animal products needed.

🚫 5. Gluten-Free Option

Enjoy this recipe without the gluten by swapping the flour.

Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour with xanthan gum.
Check for doneness with a toothpick, as GF versions may bake slightly faster.

✅ Tip: Let the batter rest for 10 minutes before piping. This helps hydrate the gluten-free flour and improves texture.

🍫 6. Chocolate-Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Want to take it up a notch? Add chocolate!

Mix 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips into the batter.
Or, drizzle the finished donuts with a cinnamon-infused chocolate glaze.

🍫 Cinnamon + chocolate = next-level indulgence.

With these swaps and twists, you can create endless versions of Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts to suit your cravings, guests, or dietary needs — and no matter the variation, they’re always crowd-pleasers.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

1. Can I make these donuts without a donut pan?

Yes! You can bake the batter in a muffin tin instead. They’ll still have that amazing cinnamon sugar flavor, just in a different shape. Brush the tops with butter and coat with cinnamon sugar after baking.

2. How long do Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts stay fresh?

They’re best served fresh, but will stay soft and tasty for up to 2 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. To refresh them, zap in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.

3. Can I freeze these donuts?

Absolutely. Store cooled donuts in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave briefly to warm. Add the cinnamon sugar topping after reheating for best texture.

4. How do I make these donuts dairy-free?

Swap out dairy-based ingredients for plant-based options:
Use almond or oat milk
Choose dairy-free yogurt
Substitute vegan butter or melted coconut oil
You’ll still get rich, fluffy Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts with no dairy at all.

5. What kind of yogurt works best?

Low-fat plain Greek yogurt is ideal, but you can use:
Regular yogurt
Vanilla-flavored yogurt
Plant-based yogurt (for dairy-free)
Just make sure it’s at room temperature before mixing.

6. Can I skip the butter in the topping?

Yes, but the cinnamon sugar may not stick as well. For a lower-fat option, lightly spray donuts with oil before coating in cinnamon sugar. Or, roll them while they’re still very warm from the oven.

7. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend that contains xanthan gum. The donuts may be slightly more delicate, but they’ll still be soft and flavorful.

8. What if I don’t have nutmeg?

You can leave it out, or substitute with an equal amount of allspice or extra cinnamon. It slightly alters the flavor, but your Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts will still taste amazing.

9. Can I fill these donuts with anything?

Since they’re baked, not fried, filling is a bit trickier. However, you can slice them in half and add a layer of:
Cinnamon cream cheese
Nutella
Apple butter
Whipped cream
🍩 Think of it as a cinnamon sugar donut sandwich!

10. Do baked donuts taste like fried ones?

Not exactly — baked donuts are lighter, softer, and more cake-like. But the cinnamon sugar coating, buttery topping, and warm spices make these Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts just as satisfying — and a lot easier to make at home.

🎯 Final Thoughts: Try These Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Today!

When you want something warm, sweet, and deeply satisfying — without the hassle of frying or a trip to the donut shop — these Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are your answer. With simple pantry staples, a quick prep time, and endless variations, they’re the kind of recipe you’ll reach for again and again.

Whether you enjoy them with your morning coffee, share a batch at brunch, or whip them up on a cozy weekend afternoon, these donuts deliver bakery-level results with homemade love. And the best part? They’re as fun to make as they are to eat.

Have you tried this Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts recipe?

Leave a comment, share it with friends, and follow us on Pinterest for more bake and no-bake dessert inspiration straight to your feed!