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Vegetarian Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins
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Vegetarian Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins

These vegetarian cinnamon sugar donut muffins are a delightful treat that combines the flavor of classic cinnamon donuts with the ease of a muffin recipe. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack, they’re soft, fluffy, and finished with a deliciously spiced sugar coating.
Course Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Keyword Baked Donut Muffins, Vegetarian, Vegetarian Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Resting Time 4 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Servings 12 muffins
Calories 220kcal
Cost $8-$10

Equipment

  • Muffin tin (12-cup)
  • Mixing bowls (large and medium)
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooling rack
  • Pastry brush

Ingredients

Muffins

  • 2 cups All-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ tsp Baking powder
  • ½ tsp Baking soda
  • ½ tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
  • ½ cup Granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup Light brown sugar (packed)
  • ½ cup Unsalted butter (melted and cooled)
  • 1 cup Buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice for a vegetarian substitute)
  • 1 Large egg (at room temperature)
  • 2 tsp Pure vanilla extract

Cinnamon Sugar Coating

  • ½ cup Granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
  • 4 tbsp Unsalted butter (melted)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Muffin Batter

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

  • Gradually fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients using a spatula. Mix just until combined; avoid overmixing, as this can make the muffins dense.

Step 3: Fill the Muffin Tin

  • Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.

Step 4: Bake the Muffins

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 17-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 5: Make the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

  • In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the coating.
  • Melt the butter in a separate bowl.

Step 6: Coat the Muffins

  • Once the muffins are cool enough to handle, brush each one with melted butter.
  • Roll the muffins in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

Notes

  • Ingredient Substitutions:
    • For a vegan version, use plant-based milk with 1 tbsp vinegar and replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water).
    • Coconut oil can replace butter in both the batter and coating.
  • Storage Tips:
    • Store muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Reheat slightly before serving for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
  • Optional Add-ins:
    • Try adding a pinch of nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth.
    • Fold in ½ cup of chopped nuts or raisins for added texture.
Enjoy these delightful vegetarian cinnamon sugar donut muffins with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate comfort snack!