These Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins are the perfect fusion of two beloved treats—classic cinnamon sugar donuts and fluffy muffins. Light, buttery, and rolled in a crunchy cinnamon-sugar coating, they offer all the joy of a bakery-fresh donut without the need for deep frying. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, these muffins are easy to make and irresistibly delicious. Their nostalgic flavor and soft texture will transport you back to the simpler joys of childhood. Whether served with coffee or warm milk, these muffins are bound to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Coating
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners. Set aside. - Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using a hand or stand mixer. - Add Egg and Vanilla
Add the egg and beat until well combined. Then stir in the vanilla extract and mix until smooth. - Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground nutmeg, and salt. Nutmeg gives these muffins that authentic donut flavor. - Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy. - Fill Muffin Tins
Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full. - Bake Until Golden
Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean. Let the muffins cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack. - Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
While the muffins are still warm, prepare the coating. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Place melted butter in a separate bowl. - Coat the Muffins
Dip each warm muffin into the melted butter, ensuring the top and sides are fully coated. Then immediately roll or sprinkle the muffin in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Repeat with all muffins. - Serve and Enjoy
Serve warm for the best texture and flavor. These muffins taste like they came straight from a donut shop and are even more delightful with a cup of coffee or tea.