Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins (No Yeast)

There’s something utterly delightful about the nostalgic flavors of cinnamon sugar and the comforting texture of a donut, wrapped up in the convenience of a muffin. These Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins (No Yeast) are exactly that—a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious treat that tastes like a classic donut but bakes up in a muffin tin in no time. No yeast, no waiting for dough to rise, just simple ingredients and a few easy steps to a warm, sugary, fluffy bite of heaven. Whether you’re after a cozy breakfast, a sweet snack, or something special for coffee time, these muffins fit the bill beautifully. Plus, they come with a golden cinnamon sugar coating that adds an irresistible crunch and sweetness on top.

Why It Deserves a Spot

These Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins (No Yeast) deserve a spot in your baking repertoire because they combine the best of both worlds: the soft, cake-like texture of a muffin with the iconic flavor and sugary finish of a donut. They’re incredibly quick to whip up, making them perfect for busy mornings or last-minute guests. Unlike traditional donuts, which require frying and yeast proofing, these muffins are baked, making them a bit lighter and easier to prepare. The cinnamon and nutmeg blend perfectly into the batter, while the cinnamon sugar coating adds that classic donut flair. Plus, they’re wonderfully versatile—you can enjoy them plain, with coffee, or even dipped in a bit of cream cheese frosting for an indulgent twist.

Ingredient Checklist

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup milk (any variety you prefer)
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup melted butter (for coating)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for topping)

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Muffin tin – standard size to hold the batter
• Mixing bowls – one for dry ingredients, one for wet
• Whisk or fork – for combining ingredients smoothly
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accuracy
• Cooling rack – to cool muffins before coating
• Pastry brush or small spoon – for brushing melted butter
• Spatula – for folding the batter gently

From Start to Finish: Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins (No Yeast)

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your muffin tin or line it with paper liners to ensure easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until well combined. This blend of spices will infuse every bite with warm, comforting flavor.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. The wet ingredients will bring moisture and richness to your batter.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Gently fold the batter together with a spatula, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly okay and will help keep your muffins tender.

Step 5: Fill Muffin Cups

Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full. This allows room for the muffins to rise without overflowing.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The tops should be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.

Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping

While the muffins bake, mix together the 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. This simple topping is the hallmark of these donut muffins.

Step 8: Coat with Butter and Cinnamon Sugar

Once the muffins are out of the oven, allow them to cool for about 5 minutes. Then, brush each muffin generously with melted butter. Immediately roll or sprinkle each muffin in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring every nook and cranny is coated in that sugary, cinnamon goodness.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins (No Yeast) warm or at room temperature with a cup of coffee or your favorite morning drink. They’re best enjoyed fresh but will keep well for days if stored properly.

Healthier Substitutions

• Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat pastry flour for a nuttier, higher-fiber muffin.
• Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a natural sweetener like maple syrup (reduce liquid accordingly).
• Use almond milk, oat milk, or any plant-based milk as a dairy-free alternative.
• Substitute vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or olive oil for a healthier fat option.
• Consider using unsweetened applesauce in place of some of the oil to reduce fat content.

Testing Timeline

After several rounds of testing, the ideal baking time for these muffins settled at 16 minutes—enough to set the crumb without drying them out. The cinnamon sugar coating was best applied immediately after baking to ensure it sticks perfectly to the warm surface.

Chilling the batter before baking was tested but didn’t improve texture or flavor significantly, so it’s optional. The balance of cinnamon and nutmeg was fine-tuned to provide warmth without overpowering the sweetness.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

Store leftover muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

To freeze, wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheat frozen or refrigerated muffins in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Refresh the cinnamon sugar coating if desired by brushing with melted butter and dipping in the cinnamon sugar mix again.

Handy Q&A

Can I use a different type of oil instead of vegetable oil?

Absolutely! Vegetable oil is neutral and versatile, but you can substitute it with melted coconut oil, canola oil, or even light olive oil. Just keep in mind that some oils may impart a subtle flavor to your muffins.

What’s the best way to store these muffins to keep them fresh?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature if you plan to eat them within a couple of days. For longer freshness, refrigerate or freeze them as mentioned above. Always reheat gently to bring back that fresh-baked warmth.

Can I make these muffins gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that’s designed for baking. Make sure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well, and expect a slightly different texture, but still delicious.

How do these differ from traditional fried donuts?

These muffins are baked, not fried, so they’re lighter and less greasy. They also skip the yeast, which makes the preparation faster and easier since there’s no need for rising time. The cinnamon sugar coating mimics the classic donut flavor and texture but with a muffin’s convenience.

Next Up in Your Queue

• Love the cinnamon sugar vibe? Try these Baked Snickerdoodle Donuts for a similar flavor with a twist.
• If you’re in the mood for a fruity crunch, the Apple Walnut Streusel Muffins are a perfect next bake.
• For something bright and zesty, check out these Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins that bring a fresh pop to your muffin game.

See You at the Table

These Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins (No Yeast) are more than just a quick bake—they’re a way to bring a little joy and warmth to your day with minimal effort. Whether you’re sharing them with family, bringing them to a brunch, or savoring one with a cozy cup of tea, they’re sure to become a favorite. So grab your mixing bowls, warm your oven, and dive into the irresistible world of cinnamon sugar goodness in muffin form. Happy baking, and see you at the table!

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