Name: Cinnamon Sugar Doughnut Muffins
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup All purpose flour; 3/4 cup Whole wheat flour; 3/4 cup Dark brown sugar; 1 tablespoon Baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon; 8 ounces Applesauce (unsweetened); 4 ounces Almond milk; 4 ounces Olive oil (you may use canola or coconut if you prefer); 2 tablespoons Maple syrup; 2 tablespoons Sugar; 1 teaspoon Cinnamon; 1/2 cup Confectioners' sugar; 2 teaspoons Almond milk (more if needed)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s something incredibly special about the aroma of freshly baked Cinnamon Sugar Doughnut Muffins wafting through the kitchen. I still remember the first time I tried making these muffins. It was a rainy afternoon, and I wanted something comforting to lift my spirits. With just a few ingredients, I found myself whisking together a delightful mixture that turned into soft, fluffy muffins. As soon as they came out of the oven, I was greeted with that warm, sugary scent that made my heart do a little happy dance. These muffins are not just a treat; they hold memories of cozy moments spent with loved ones, sharing laughter and stories over a cup of tea.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
180 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Standard

Fat:
7 g

Tools Used:
Oven, Baking Sheet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Wooden Spoon

The Best Thing About This Cinnamon Sugar Doughnut Muffins

They’re Vegan Yet Irresistible

What I love about these Cinnamon Sugar Doughnut Muffins is that they’re completely vegan! You won’t miss the eggs or dairy at all. Instead, we use ingredients like applesauce and almond milk to keep them moist and flavorful. Everyone who tries them, regardless of their dietary preferences, finds them delicious.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a weekend brunch, a cozy afternoon snack, or even a sweet treat for guests, these muffins fit right in. They’re easy to whip up and can bring smiles to anyone’s face. Plus, they look adorable on any dessert table!

Simple and Quick to Make

Even if you’re not an experienced baker, making these muffins is a breeze. You can throw them together in no time. All you need is a mixing bowl, a whisk, and a muffin tray. In just about thirty minutes, you’ll be enjoying warm muffins right from your oven!

Customization is Key

Feeling adventurous? You can easily customize these muffins by adding in your favorite ingredients. Try swapping in some chopped nuts or adding a handful of berries. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make them your own every time.

The Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Crunch

What sets these muffins apart is the delicious cinnamon sugar topping. It adds a delightful crunch and flavor that is simply irresistible. Every bite is a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. You won’t be able to stop at just one!

Share the Love

These muffins are perfect for sharing with friends and family. I love to gift them in a cute box or bring them to gatherings. The joy they bring to others is why I keep making batches of these Cinnamon Sugar Doughnut Muffins.

What Goes Into Cinnamon Sugar Doughnut Muffins

To create these delightful muffins, we gather a harmonious blend of ingredients that not only work well together but also bring out the best flavors. Each ingredient plays a key role in crafting the perfect muffin. The combination of all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour provides a nice texture, while dark brown sugar adds a rich sweetness. The baking powder helps them rise beautifully, making them fluffy and light. With a touch of cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup, these muffins become an irresistible treat!

1 cup all purpose flour: This flour is the foundation for our muffins, providing structure and texture.
3/4 cup whole wheat flour: Adds a nutty flavor and enhances the fiber content, making these muffins more wholesome.
3/4 cup dark brown sugar: This sugar lends a deep sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor.
1 tablespoon baking powder: The leavening agent that helps the muffins rise and become fluffy.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star of the show, providing the warm, comforting flavor.
8 ounces applesauce (unsweetened): Acts as a binder and adds moisture without the need for eggs.
4 ounces almond milk: A dairy-free alternative that keeps the muffins moist.
4 ounces olive oil: Adds richness and keeps the muffins tender; you may use canola or coconut if you prefer.
2 tablespoons maple syrup: Sweetens the muffins naturally, complementing the flavors beautifully.
2 tablespoons sugar: Used for the cinnamon sugar topping, giving that sweet crunch.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: For that extra hint of spice in the topping.
1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar: Adds a lovely finishing touch when drizzled over the muffins.
2 teaspoons almond milk, more if needed: To adjust the consistency of the glaze.

Putting Together Cinnamon Sugar Doughnut Muffins

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into making these delicious Cinnamon Sugar Doughnut Muffins. Follow my steps closely, and you’ll be enjoying these sweet treats in no time!

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial for ensuring that the muffins rise nicely and bake evenly. While the oven is heating, grease or line your muffin tray with liners to prevent sticking.
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, dark brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Mix these ingredients until well-combined. The aroma of cinnamon will start to fill the air, making your kitchen smell delightful!
In a separate bowl, whisk together the applesauce, almond milk, olive oil, and maple syrup. This blend will create a wet mixture that is both creamy and smooth. Make sure everything is well combined before moving on.
Now, pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture. With a spatula, gently fold the ingredients together until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are okay. The batter should be thick and a little chunky, with visible parts of the dry ingredients.
Fill the muffin cups about 2/3 of the way full with the batter. You can use a scoop or a spoon for this step, ensuring that each muffin has an even amount of batter. At this stage, you can sprinkle some cinnamon sugar over the top for that extra sweetness!
Place the muffin tray in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. As they bake, you’ll notice them puffing up and turning a lovely golden color. When they’re ready, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.
Once baked, let the muffins cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes. This step allows them to set properly, making them easier to handle. After that, carefully transfer the muffins to a cooling rack to cool completely. This is where the magic happens as they continue to firm up and develop their flavors.
While the muffins are cooling, prepare the glaze by mixing the confectioners’ sugar and almond milk in a small bowl until smooth. This glaze will add the perfect finishing touch to your muffins. If it’s too thick, add a little more almond milk until you reach the desired consistency.
Once the muffins have cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top of each muffin. The glaze should settle into the nooks and crannies, giving them a beautiful shine. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving.

Things Worth Knowing

Make sure to preheat your oven properly; this ensures even baking.
Mix dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately to avoid over-mixing.
Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
Let muffins cool in the pan initially to avoid crumbling when transferring.

Recipe Tips about Cinnamon Sugar Doughnut Muffins

Before you dive into making these muffins, here are some handy tips to ensure your baking experience goes smoothly. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these tips will help you achieve the best results.

Storage: Keep your muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate them to extend their freshness.
Freezing: These muffins freeze exceptionally well! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
Pairing: Serve these muffins with a side of fresh fruit or a dollop of nut butter for a perfect breakfast combo.
Variations: Feel free to add mix-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit to customize your muffins.
Serving: Top with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon sugar before serving for an added crunch!

What Goes Well With This Cinnamon Sugar Doughnut Muffins

These Cinnamon Sugar Doughnut Muffins are versatile and can be served in various ways that complement their delightful sweetness. Here are some ideas:

Breakfast Treat: Enjoy them as a delightful breakfast option alongside a cup of coffee or tea. Their sweetness pairs wonderfully with your morning beverage.
Brunch Delight: Perfect for brunch gatherings, serve them on a platter with other pastries, fruits, and a refreshing drink.
Snack Time: Ideal for mid-afternoon snacks, these muffins can satisfy your sweet cravings without being overly indulgent.
Holiday Gatherings: Bring a batch to family celebrations or potlucks. Their charming appearance and delicious taste make them a hit with everyone.
Picnics: Pack these muffins for a picnic; they hold up well and can be enjoyed at room temperature.
Dessert Option: Serve alongside vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert experience!

FAQ

Absolutely! To make gluten-free Cinnamon Sugar Doughnut Muffins, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. I recommend using a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour, which typically includes xanthan gum to mimic the texture of wheat flour. Just make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free, especially the baking powder and any dairy alternatives you use. The muffins may turn out slightly different in texture but should be equally delicious!

These Cinnamon Sugar Doughnut Muffins can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. For extended storage, wrap each muffin individually and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, just thaw it at room temperature, or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds to warm it up!

Definitely! While this recipe calls for almond milk, you can use any plant-based milk that you prefer. Options like soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk will all work just fine. Each type of milk will impart its unique flavor, so feel free to experiment based on your taste preferences. Just ensure that whatever milk you choose is unsweetened for the best results in these muffins!

There are so many ways to serve Cinnamon Sugar Doughnut Muffins! They’re perfect for breakfast with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also serve them as a delightful brunch item, paired with fresh fruits or a smoothie. For dessert, warm them slightly and serve with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream. They can also be enjoyed as an afternoon snack, making them a versatile option for any time of day!

Conclusion

The Cinnamon Sugar Doughnut Muffins are a delightful blend of comfort and sweetness, making them a wonderful treat for any occasion. Their soft texture and flavorful cinnamon sugar topping are sure to please everyone. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; I promise you won’t be disappointed! They’re not only easy to make but also bring joy to your kitchen and your loved ones. Happy baking!