Grandma’s Fluffy Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins

There’s something so nostalgic and comforting about the scent of cinnamon sugar wafting through the kitchen, and these Grandma’s Fluffy Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins always bring me back to cozy mornings and warm memories. Light, soft, and coated in a sweet cinnamon crust, these muffins taste just like a classic old-fashioned donut—but they’re baked, not fried, and come together with pantry staples in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these donut muffins give me everything I crave in a donut, but without the fuss of deep frying. They’re fluffy, tender, and perfectly sweet with a warm cinnamon aroma that fills the kitchen. These are quick to whip up, incredibly kid-friendly, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon treat. Plus, the cinnamon sugar coating adds just the right touch of old-school charm.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup milk
• ⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
I start by preheating my oven to 350°F (175°C). Then I line a muffin tin with paper liners or spray it with non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, I whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until everything is evenly combined.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, I whisk together the milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
I pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir just until combined. I stop as soon as the flour disappears to avoid overmixing—some small lumps are totally fine.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin
I spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.

Step 6: Bake
I bake the muffins for 15–18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Then I let them cool in the pan for a few minutes.

Step 7: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
While the muffins are baking, I mix the cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl and set it aside.

Step 8: Coat the Muffins
While the muffins are still warm, I gently roll each one in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 12 muffins.

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 18 minutes
• Total time: 28 minutes

Variations

When I want to change things up, I sometimes add a pinch of nutmeg to the batter for a more traditional donut flavor. A splash of almond extract can also give a lovely twist. If I’m feeling extra indulgent, I dip the muffin tops in melted butter before rolling in the cinnamon sugar for even more richness.

Storage/Reheating

I store these muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them extra soft, I add a paper towel to the container to absorb any moisture. If I want to reheat them, a quick 10-second warm-up in the microwave brings back that fresh-from-the-oven softness. They also freeze well—just wrap tightly and thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

FAQs

Can I make these muffins ahead of time?

Yes, I can bake them a day in advance and store them at room temperature. I just wait to coat them in cinnamon sugar until shortly before serving if I want the topping to stay crisp.

Can I use a different type of milk?

Absolutely. I’ve used almond milk and oat milk before and the muffins still turn out soft and fluffy.

How do I keep the muffins from becoming dry?

I make sure not to overbake them and avoid overmixing the batter. Both can lead to a tougher texture.

Can I add mix-ins to the batter?

Yes! Mini chocolate chips or small chunks of apple work well. I just fold them in gently at the end.

Can I skip the cinnamon sugar topping?

Sure, but it’s my favorite part! If I want to lighten things up, I might just sprinkle a little cinnamon sugar over the tops instead of coating the whole muffin.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Fluffy Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins are one of those feel-good recipes I always come back to. They’re easy, delicious, and bring a comforting homemade touch to any morning or midday snack. Whether I’m baking for guests or just treating myself, these muffins always deliver that perfect balance of soft, sweet, and warmly spiced.

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