Super Simple Cinnamon Bun Donuts
If you’re looking for a delightful way to kick-start your morning, look no further than these Super Simple Cinnamon Bun Donuts. Soft, fluffy, and bursting with the warm flavors of cinnamon and sugar, these donuts are a treat you can whip up in no time. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee or as an afternoon snack, these donuts will become a favorite in your home. Let’s dive into the details of making these irresistible sweet treats!
What Makes This Recipe Special
What sets these Super Simple Cinnamon Bun Donuts apart is their simplicity. With minimal ingredients and a quick preparation time, you can have fresh, homemade donuts ready to enjoy in under 30 minutes. They’re baked, not fried, which means you can indulge in these delicious treats without the guilt. The combination of rich brown sugar, creamy almond milk, and a generous sprinkle of cinnamon creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose baking flour
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup milk (vanilla almond milk is a great choice)
- 1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (again, vanilla almond milk)
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Tools of the Trade
- Mixing bowls – for combining your ingredients.
- Whisk – to blend your dry and wet components smoothly.
- Donut pan – essential for shaping your donuts perfectly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – precise measurements are key in baking.
- Cooling rack – to let your donuts cool evenly after baking.
Super Simple Cinnamon Bun Donuts, Made Easy
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your donuts will bake evenly and come out fluffy and golden.
Step 2: Prepare the Donut Pan
Lightly grease your donut pan with non-stick spray or a little melted butter to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, dark brown sugar, salt, baking powder, and 1 1/4 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Make sure there are no lumps for a smooth batter.
Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and the egg until well combined. The milk adds a subtle sweetness, and the butter contributes to the rich flavor.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Step 6: Fill the Donut Pan
Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about halfway. This allows room for the donuts to rise while baking.
Step 7: Bake
Place the donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the donuts are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Glaze
Once baked, remove the donuts from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes. Carefully transfer them to a cooling rack. While they cool, prepare the glaze by whisking together the confectioners’ sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until smooth.
Step 9: Glaze the Donuts
Once the donuts are cool, dip the tops into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Place them back on the cooling rack to let the glaze set.
Seasonal Spins
- Pumpkin Spice Donuts: Add 1/4 cup of pumpkin puree and a touch of nutmeg to the batter for a fall-inspired twist.
- Maple Pecan Donuts: Substitute maple syrup for the brown sugar and sprinkle chopped pecans on top of the glaze.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt chocolate and drizzle over the glazed donuts for a sweet addition.
- Apple Cinnamon: Fold in 1/2 cup of finely diced apples into the batter for extra flavor and texture.
Pro Perspective
These Super Simple Cinnamon Bun Donuts are not just easy to make; they are incredibly versatile! You can easily customize them based on what you have in your pantry or your personal preferences. Additionally, they are perfect for sharing at brunch or enjoying on a cozy weekend morning. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings, such as sprinkles or chopped nuts, to make them even more fun!
How to Store & Reheat
To keep your Super Simple Cinnamon Bun Donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them. Simply place them in a freezer-safe bag, and they’ll be good for up to a month. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or warm them in a toaster oven for a few minutes to regain their fluffy texture.
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture might be denser. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly to achieve the desired consistency.
What can I use instead of almond milk?
You can use any milk of your choice, such as soy milk, oat milk, or regular dairy milk, depending on your preferences and dietary needs.
Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the batter and refrigerate it overnight. Just be sure to give it a good stir before filling the donut pan and baking.
What should I do if my donuts stick to the pan?
If your donuts stick, it could be due to insufficient greasing or baking them for too long. Ensure you grease the pan well and keep an eye on the baking time to prevent over-baking.
Quick Weeknight Wins
- Easy Chocolate Chip Cookies – Bake a classic treat in just 20 minutes!
- One-Pan Pasta – A quick and delicious dinner with minimal cleanup.
- 30-Minute Stir-Fry – A healthy meal that comes together in a flash.
- Quick Smoothie Bowl – Perfect for breakfast or a refreshing snack.
The Last Word
These Super Simple Cinnamon Bun Donuts are a wonderful addition to your baking repertoire. Their ease of preparation and delightful flavor make them a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress your family at breakfast or simply want to treat yourself, these donuts are sure to satisfy. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in these sweet, cinnamon-swirled delights! Enjoy every bite!
Super Simple Cinnamon Bun Donuts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Step 2: Lightly grease your donut pan with non-stick spray or melted butter.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, salt, baking powder, and cinnamon.
- Step 4: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and egg.
- Step 5: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir gently until just combined.
- Step 6: Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity halfway.
- Step 7: Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Step 8: Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack.
- Step 9: Prepare the glaze by whisking together confectioners' sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and cinnamon until smooth. Dip the tops of the cooled donuts into the glaze.
Notes
- Store donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to a month in a freezer-safe bag.
- Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for best texture.
