There’s something irresistible about the warm aroma of cinnamon filling the kitchen, especially when it comes from a batch of freshly baked doughnuts. Cinnamon Baked Doughnuts offer all the comforting flavors of a classic doughnut without the need for deep frying, making them a simpler and lighter option for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. Soft, tender, and coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar mixture, these homemade doughnuts are guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Unlike traditional fried homemade doughnuts, baked doughnuts are quick and easy to prepare. The batter comes together with pantry staples such as flour, sugar, baking powder, milk, eggs, butter, and vanilla extract. Ground cinnamon is mixed into the batter, adding warmth and depth to every bite. Once combined, the batter is spooned or piped into a doughnut pan, creating the classic ring shape that makes doughnuts so fun to serve and enjoy.
As the doughnuts bake, they develop a soft cake-like texture with a light golden exterior. The real magic happens after they come out of the oven. While still slightly warm, each doughnut is brushed with melted butter and generously coated in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. This finishing touch creates a sweet, fragrant crust that perfectly complements the tender interior.
One of the reasons these doughnuts are so popular is their versatility. They pair wonderfully with a morning cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate and can easily be customized with additional flavors. A touch of nutmeg, a splash of maple extract, or even a light vanilla glaze can add a unique twist while still preserving the classic cinnamon flavor that everyone loves.
Cinnamon Baked Doughnuts are also a great baking project for beginners. They require no yeast, no rising time, and no complicated techniques, making them an accessible recipe for home bakers of all skill levels. In less than an hour, you can have a batch of warm, homemade doughnuts ready to enjoy.
Whether you’re preparing a cozy weekend breakfast, hosting a brunch gathering, or simply craving a sweet snack, Cinnamon Baked Doughnuts deliver comfort and flavor in every bite. Their soft texture, warm spice, and delightful cinnamon-sugar coating make them a timeless treat that’s perfect for any occasion. One taste, and you’ll be reaching for another.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup melted butter for brushing
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar for coating
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon for coating
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a doughnut pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla until combined.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir just until no dry streaks remain. Do not overmix.
- Spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared doughnut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the doughnuts spring back when lightly touched.
- Let the doughnuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- While still warm, brush each doughnut with melted butter.
- Mix the coating sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl, then roll each doughnut in the mixture until well coated.
- Serve warm and enjoy.
Nutrition
Baked??? Where’s the fryer? Don’t know what’s the point of not frying them. They need that crispy edge!
I think they turned out ok but they were kinda dry. Maybe I overbaked them?
Looks delicious, but my oven is broken. Can I make them on the stove? 🤔
These are way better than those store ones that make me sick. Love it!
These doughnuts were amazing! I made them for breakfast and my family loved them. Will definitely make again!
Delicious and sooo easy! Made them for brunch and everyone loved them!
Not bad! But not what my taste buds expected. Cinnamon flavor is overpowering for some reason.
They turned out dry. I followed the recipe exactly, but not happy with the result.
Ugh, that’s disappointing. I’ve had the same issue with other recipes though. Some ovens can be weird!
Sorry to hear that! Maybe next time try just baking a bit shorter? It helped me before.
These are sooo good! My kids loved them! Will make again for sure.
Cinnamon is the best spice! Never tried baking doughnuts, but now I will!
I ain’t no baker, but these turned out pretty good. Instructions were clear. Nice!
I ain’t no chef but this was easy peasy! Mine looked perfect too 🥳
Glad you enjoyed it! These doughnuts are a hit! 🍩
Um, what if you don’t have a doughnut pan? Can you use a muffin tin?
I like cinnamon, but these doughnuts were just too sweet for me. Might cut down the sugar next time.
Just ok. I think I prefer traditional fried doughnuts better. 🤷♂️
I get you! Traditional ones have that crispy crust that’s hard to beat. But these are a nice healthy alternative. 😉
Doughnuts or donuts? What’s the difference? Either way, this recipe rocks!
Coating sugar and cinnamon? Sounds like too much work. Just toss ’em in a powdered sugar bag!
Why do you need ground cinnamon when you already put cinnamon in the batter? Seems redundant to me.
It’s just like the ones from the store, but homemade! Yummy 😊
I tried this recipe but I think I added too much flour. They came out kinda dry. Gotta give it another shot.
My doughnuts came out flat and sad. I must’ve messed up somewhere. Sad face. 🙁
I added chocolate chips and they turned out great! 10/10 would recommend. 😊
Super easy recipe! Even my kid helped make them. Can’t believe I baked doughnuts at home!
These doughnuts are a game changer! So easy to make and they taste divine. Definitely making again!
OMG! These are the best! My kids couldn’t get enough! Thank you for sharing!
So simple! Just made them and already eaten half. However, I think they could use more spice.
I agree, they were super easy to make! But I added a pinch of nutmeg and it gave them a nice kick! Maybe try that next time?
I dunno, I think they taste just fine. Maybe you’re just not used to cinnamon?! 🤷♂️