Dessert

Cinnamon Sugar Donuts – The Perfect Homemade Sweet Treat Recipe

ByJulian Dempsey October 28, 2025October 28, 2025

Introduction

Cinnamon sugar donuts are a delightful homemade treat, perfect for breakfast or an indulgent snack. These soft, fluffy donuts are baked, not fried, making them a lighter alternative without sacrificing any sweetness or flavor.

Four round donuts with a golden-brown outer layer, dusted with a light sprinkling of white sugar on top, are arranged neatly on a dark wooden cutting board. The donuts have a soft and fluffy texture with a visible hole in the center of each. Around the board, there are a few cinnamon sticks and a white bowl filled with a white powdery substance, likely sugar or flour, all placed on a white marbled surface. The warm tones of the donuts contrast gently with the cooler dark brown board and the soft white elements nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 large egg
⅓ cup light brown sugar
¼ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
¼ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
2 tbsp melted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
2 tbsp melted butter, for brushing

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan to prepare for baking.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and brown sugar. Then add the milk, sour cream (or plain yogurt), melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
Step 4: Gently stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the donuts light and tender.
Step 5: Transfer the batter to a piping bag or a zip-top plastic bag with the corner cut off. Pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
Step 6: Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when lightly touched.
Step 7: Allow donuts to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 8: Brush each donut with the remaining melted butter, then roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture while still warm to coat evenly.
Step 9: Serve the donuts fresh, or store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Tips & Variations

For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and sour cream with almond or oat milk and coconut yogurt.
Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the batter for extra warmth in flavor.
Use a silicone donut pan for easy release and quick cleanup.
If you don’t have a piping bag, spoon the batter carefully into the pan but be mindful to avoid overfilling.

Storage

Store the cinnamon sugar donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the donuts in a sealed bag or container for up to 1 month. Reheat in the microwave for about 15 seconds or in a warm oven to restore their freshness before serving.

How to Serve

Seven round donuts are arranged closely on a round wooden cutting board. Each donut is golden brown with a slightly crispy texture and a light dusting of white powdered sugar on top, giving a soft contrast to their warm color. The donuts have a visible middle hole and show their soft, fluffy interior around the edges. Around the board, several cinnamon sticks are scattered on a white marbled surface, adding a rustic and cozy touch to the scene. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these donuts without a donut pan?

Yes, you can bake the batter in a muffin tin and then shape or cut them after baking, but they won’t have the classic donut hole shape.

What makes these donuts light and fluffy?

The combination of baking powder and baking soda helps the donuts rise, while mixing the batter just until combined prevents them from becoming dense.