Best Family Dessert: Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

These deliciously fluffy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are a family favorite that transforms any occasion into a celebration. Originating from the classic bakery treats, these donuts are a delightful mix of sweet and spicy with a comforting, warm aroma. Perfect for weekend brunch, birthday parties, or just as a sweet treat after dinner, they bring joy and nostalgia in every bite. With a light, fluffy texture enveloped in a crunchy cinnamon-sugar coating, they are irresistible and perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Prep and Cook Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Skill Level: Beginner

Serving Information

• Yields: 12 donuts
• Serving Suggestions: Serve warm, dusted with extra cinnamon sugar. Pair with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.

Ingredients List

• For the Donuts:

  • 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) buttermilk (or substitute with milk + 1/2 tbsp vinegar)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
• For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
  • 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)

Substitutions:

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with almond milk and butter with coconut oil.

Equipment List

• Essential Equipment:

  • Mixing bowls (1 large, 1 medium)
  • Whisk
  • Rubber spatula
  • Donut pan (12-cavity)
  • Oven
  • Cooling rack
• Optional Equipment:
  • Pastry brush (for applying butter)
  • Sifter (for dusting powdered sugar)

Note: If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin to create "donut holes."

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your donut pan with non-stick spray.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Combine the wet ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold using a rubber spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing; a few lumps are okay.
5. Fill the donut pan: Spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.
6. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when touched and are lightly golden.
7. Cool: Once baked, remove the donuts from the oven, let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack.
8. Prepare the cinnamon sugar: In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the coating.
9. Coat the donuts: While the donuts are still warm, brush them with melted butter, then dip them into the cinnamon sugar mixture until well coated.

Technique Tips and Troubleshooting

• Batter Consistency: The batter should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, add a splash more buttermilk.
• Donut Pan: If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a piping bag to pipe the batter in a circular motion on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Overmixing: Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts.

Plating and Presentation

• Serve the donuts warm on a large platter. You can stack them for a fun presentation. Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for an extra treat, and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To enjoy them warm again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-8 minutes.

Variations and Customizations

• Chocolate Glazed: Dip in a simple chocolate glaze for a decadent twist.
• Filled Donuts: Inject with jam or cream for a surprise filling.
• Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) and use non-dairy milk and butter.

Notes on Ingredients and Equipment

• Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make your own by adding a tablespoon of vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
• Donut Pan: Investing in a good quality donut pan will yield the best shape and texture.

Final Touches and Personal Notes

These Cinnamon Sugar Donuts hold a special place in my heart as they were a staple in my family growing up. We would make them on lazy Sunday mornings, filling the house with their delightful aroma. I invite you to experiment with this recipe and make it your own—add your favorite spices or toppings, and enjoy the memories created in your kitchen!

FAQ

1. Can I make these donuts in advance?

   • Yes, you can prepare the batter and store it in the fridge overnight. Just fill the donut pan and bake in the morning for fresh donuts!

2. What can I substitute for buttermilk?

   • You can use regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice added, or non-dairy milk as a substitute.

3. How do I know when the donuts are done?

   • The donuts are done when they spring back lightly when touched, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

4. Can I freeze these donuts?

   • Yes, you can freeze the donuts without the cinnamon sugar coating. Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and coat them before serving.
5. What toppings can I add to the donuts?
   • You can add a chocolate glaze, powdered sugar, or even a cream cheese frosting for a fun twist!

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