Baked Snickerdoodle Donuts

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Indulge your sweet tooth with these delightful Baked Snickerdoodle Donuts that bring the classic flavor of snickerdoodle cookies into a soft and fluffy donut. Coated in cinnamon and sugar and packed with warm spices, these donuts are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or just a sweet snack any time of the day. Light and airy yet rich in flavor, they are sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, baking them instead of frying means you can enjoy them guilt-free!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

If you’ve ever craved the comforting flavors of snickerdoodle cookies but wanted something new, these baked donuts are the perfect solution. They combine the best of both worlds, with a tender crumb and that iconic cinnamon-sugar coating that makes snickerdoodles so beloved. These donuts are beautifully baked rather than fried, making them a more wholesome treat you can feel good about enjoying. Additionally, they’re simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cake flour
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¾ cup buttermilk
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

How To Make Baked Snickerdoodle Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the donuts cook evenly and rise beautifully while baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease a donut pan well with cooking spray or a bit of melted butter. This will prevent the donuts from sticking, allowing for easy removal once they are baked.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cake flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt until well combined. This step is essential as it ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, lightly beaten eggs, vanilla extract, and melted unsalted butter. Make sure the butter isn’t too hot before adding, as this can cook the eggs.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are okay. The batter will be thick and luscious, perfect for donuts.

Step 6: Fill the Donut Pan

Using a piping bag or a zip-top bag with one corner snipped off, fill each donut cavity about ¾ full with the batter. This allows room for the donuts to rise without overflowing.

Step 7: Bake

Place your donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are becoming golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Once done, remove the donuts from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. While they cool, mix ¾ cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon in a shallow dish.

Step 9: Coat the Donuts

While the donuts are still warm, roll each one in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. This step adds a delicious sweet crunch to the outside of each soft donut.

Expert Tips

• Ensure your cake flour is fresh for the best texture and flavor.
• Donuts are best eaten the day they are made, but they can remain soft for a day or two if stored properly.
• For added indulgence, drizzle your donuts with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
• Don’t overmix the batter; this keeps your donuts light and fluffy.

Variations and Customizations

• For a chocolate twist, you can add cocoa powder to the batter.
• Incorporate a teaspoon of nutmeg for a spiced flavor variation.
• Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for a crunchy texture.
• Make a maple glaze instead of cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist.

How to Store Leftovers

If by some chance you have leftover donuts (though we doubt it!), you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!

FAQ

Can I use another type of flour for this recipe?

You can use all-purpose flour if you don’t have cake flour on hand, but the texture may be slightly denser.

Do I have to use buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk available, you can easily substitute by mixing ¾ cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.

Can I freeze these donuts?

Yes! You can freeze the donuts before coating them in cinnamon sugar. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw and coat in cinnamon sugar when ready.

How do I know when the donuts are fully baked?

The donuts are done when the edges turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Conclusion

Baked Snickerdoodle Donuts are a delightful twist on a classic favorite, bringing all the amazing flavors of snickerdoodle cookies into a fluffy, baked treat. With simple ingredients and an easy method, you can whip up a batch that will make your kitchen smell divine. Whether enjoyed warm with a coffee or as a special treat at a gathering, these donuts are sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to enjoy a scrumptious homemade delight that your family and friends will rave about! Happy baking!