Get ready to indulge in the sweet, warm bliss of Cinnamon Sugar Mini Donuts! This delightful and easy recipe brings homemade treats to your kitchen in no time. With simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’ll master these fluffy bites that are perfect for breakfast or a snack. Join me as we dive into the world of these mini delights and learn how to make them just right!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Sweet: These mini donuts are coated in a delightful cinnamon sugar that makes each bite irresistibly sweet and satisfying.
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a batch of these tasty treats in no time!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekend brunch, a holiday gathering, or just a snack, these mini donuts are always a hit.
- Fun to Make: Filling the donut molds is a fun activity, especially for kids, making it a great family cooking project.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp baking soda
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (plus extra for topping)
– 1/2 cup buttermilk (or 1/2 cup milk mixed with 1/2 tsp vinegar)
– 1 large egg
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
For these cinnamon sugar mini donuts, I choose simple, easy-to-find ingredients.
All-purpose flour gives the donuts their fluffy texture. It works well with this recipe.
Granulated sugar sweetens the donuts and helps them brown nicely.
Baking powder and baking soda are key leaveners. They make the donuts rise and stay light.
Salt balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
Ground cinnamon adds warmth and depth. You can use more for the topping.
Buttermilk makes the donuts soft and moist. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix regular milk with vinegar. This creates a similar effect.
Egg binds the mix and adds richness.
Unsalted butter adds flavor and moisture. Melt it before mixing to keep the donuts soft.
Finally, you need extra sugar and cinnamon for coating. This gives each bite a delightful crunch.
Every ingredient plays a role in making these donuts a treat. They are fun to make and even better to eat!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Donut Pan
Grease your mini donut pan with cooking spray or butter. Make sure to coat each mold well. This step helps the donuts come out easily after baking.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Mix them well to combine. This ensures even flavor and texture in your donuts.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, egg, and melted butter. Stir until smooth. Be careful not to overmix when you add this to the dry mix. A few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough donuts.
Filling the Donut Molds
Use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a snipped corner to fill the donut molds. Fill each mold about 2/3 full. This gives the donuts room to rise without spilling over.
Baking the Donuts
Bake the donuts at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes. They should turn golden brown and bounce back when touched. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Coating and Serving the Donuts
In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the coating. Once the donuts cool for a minute, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. For a nice touch, arrange them on a plate and dust with extra cinnamon sugar. Serve with melted chocolate or caramel sauce for dipping.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Mini Donuts
To make perfect mini donuts, avoid a few common mistakes. First, don’t overmix your batter. A few lumps are fine. Overmixing makes the donuts tough. Second, be careful with baking times. Check them a minute early. If they look golden and spring back, they are done.
For a fluffy texture, use fresh baking powder and baking soda. These ingredients help the donuts rise. Also, make sure your buttermilk is at room temperature. This trick helps the batter combine better.
Equipment Recommendations
Using the right tools makes a big difference. A mini donut pan is essential. It shapes the donuts and helps them bake evenly. A piping bag, or a zip-top bag, is also helpful. It lets you fill the molds easily without making a mess.
A whisk is great for mixing dry ingredients. A rubber spatula helps fold the batter gently, keeping it light and airy.
Enhancements for Flavor
To boost the flavor of your mini donuts, try adding a splash of vanilla extract. This simple addition makes a big difference. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg. Nutmeg pairs well with cinnamon and adds warmth.
Experiment with other flavors, too. You might add cocoa powder for chocolate donuts. Or, try pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist. The options are endless, so get creative!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh baking powder and baking soda can greatly affect the rise of your donuts. Always check the expiration dates!
- Don’t Overmix: Mixing the batter too much can lead to dense donuts. Stir just until combined for a lighter texture.
- Cool Before Coating: Allow the donuts to cool slightly before rolling them in cinnamon sugar; this helps the sugar stick better.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other spices like nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract to the batter for unique flavor variations.
Variations
Gluten-Free Mini Donuts
To make gluten-free mini donuts, you need to use different flour. Almond flour or oat flour works well. You can also use a gluten-free all-purpose flour mix. Make sure it has a binding agent, like xanthan gum. Replace the buttermilk with a dairy-free option, like almond milk mixed with vinegar. This keeps the donuts moist and tasty.
Vegan Mini Donuts
If you want vegan mini donuts, swap the egg with flaxseed meal. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. For the buttermilk, use plant-based milk with a splash of vinegar. Replace the melted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. These changes let everyone enjoy the donuts.
Flavor Variations
You can change the flavor of your mini donuts easily. For chocolate donuts, add cocoa powder to the dry mix. Just use a few tablespoons for a rich taste. For pumpkin spice, add pumpkin puree and some pumpkin spice to your batter. This gives a warm, cozy flavor. You can even try adding vanilla extract or almond extract for a unique twist. The options are endless!
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Mini Donuts
To keep your mini donuts fresh, place them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. If you have extra donuts, layer them with parchment paper. This method stops them from sticking together. Store the container at room temperature for the best taste. Try to eat the leftovers within two days for the best flavor and texture.
Freezing Tips
If you want to save some donuts for later, freezing is a great option. To freeze, first let the donuts cool completely. Then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes for a warm treat.
Shelf Life Guidelines
At room temperature, mini donuts last about 1 to 2 days. If you store them in the fridge, they can last up to a week. Freezing extends their life to about 2 to 3 months. Just remember to check for any signs of freezer burn before you eat them. This way, you can savor your delicious treats anytime!
FAQs
How do I make cinnamon sugar for coating?
To make cinnamon sugar, mix 1/4 cup granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. This blend adds a sweet and spicy crunch to the donuts. You can use this mix on toast, pancakes, or even in baked goods. It’s a simple way to elevate many treats.
Can I use an alternative to buttermilk?
Yes, you can. If you don’t have buttermilk, mix 1/2 cup milk with 1/2 teaspoon vinegar. This will create a similar tangy flavor. It keeps the donuts moist, which is key for texture. Other options include yogurt or sour cream, but these may change the taste slightly.
How can I make mini donuts without a donut pan?
You can use a muffin tin instead. Just fill each cup with batter about two-thirds full. You can also shape the donuts by hand and bake them on a lined baking sheet. They may not look like classic donuts, but they will still taste great!
What is the nutritional information for these mini donuts?
Each mini donut contains about 60 calories. This can vary based on the size and ingredients used. The recipe makes about 24 mini donuts, making them a fun treat to share. Enjoy them in moderation, as they are sweet and tasty!
In this blog post, I covered how to make mini donuts with step-by-step instructions. We explored ingredient choices, from using buttermilk to gluten-free substitutes. You learned the prep for your donut pan and tips for mixing ingredients correctly. I shared methods for filling molds, baking, and coating your donuts.
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, remember that practice makes perfect. Experiment with flavors and enjoy your creations. Happy bakin
