Cinnamon Sugar Donuts with Vanilla Glaze

Cinnamon Sugar Donuts with Vanilla Glaze are a delightful treat that blends the warmth of cinnamon with a sweet, silky glaze. These soft, fluffy donuts are baked—not fried—making them an easier and slightly lighter alternative to traditional fried donuts, all without compromising on flavor or texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These donuts are the perfect balance of cozy and sweet. The cinnamon sugar coating gives them a nostalgic, comforting flavor, while the vanilla glaze adds just the right amount of richness. They’re quick to make, especially with a donut pan, and ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat. No deep-frying means less mess, less oil, and a faster cleanup.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour

• Baking powder

• Baking soda

• Salt

• Ground cinnamon

• Unsalted butter, melted

• Granulated sugar

• Brown sugar

• Eggs

• Milk

• Vanilla extract

For the cinnamon sugar coating:

• Granulated sugar

• Ground cinnamon

• Melted butter (for brushing)

For the vanilla glaze:

• Powdered sugar

• Milk or cream

• Vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

3. In another bowl, mix the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined—do not overmix.

5. Spoon or pipe the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.

6. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when lightly pressed.

7. Let the donuts cool slightly, then brush with melted butter and roll in cinnamon sugar.

8. For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar with milk and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over cooled donuts or dip the tops.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12 donuts
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes

Variations

• Filled version: Skip the glaze and inject jam or cream into the center of the baked donuts.

• Maple glaze: Replace the vanilla with maple extract for a seasonal twist.

• Mini donuts: Use a mini donut pan and reduce the baking time by a few minutes.

• Add-ins: Stir in mini chocolate chips or chopped apples for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes. Glazed donuts are best eaten fresh, but the cinnamon sugar coating holds up well for a couple of days.

FAQs

Do I need a donut pan for this recipe?

Yes, a donut pan is required to achieve the traditional shape. Alternatively, you can use a muffin pan and reduce the baking time slightly.

Can I fry this batter instead of baking?

This batter is designed for baking. Frying it may result in uneven texture or overly greasy donuts.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but the texture will be denser. Consider using half all-purpose and half whole wheat for balance.

How do I prevent the donuts from sticking to the pan?

Grease the donut pan well with butter or nonstick spray before adding the batter.

Can I make these donuts dairy-free?

Yes, use plant-based milk and a dairy-free butter substitute.

Is it necessary to use both brown and white sugar?

Using both adds depth of flavor and moisture, but you can substitute with just one type if needed.

How long should I let the donuts cool before glazing?

Allow them to cool for at least 10 minutes to avoid melting the glaze excessively.

Can I freeze these donuts?

Yes, freeze unglazed donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and add glaze before serving.

Can I skip the glaze and just use cinnamon sugar?

Absolutely. They are delicious with just the cinnamon sugar coating.

Why are my donuts dry?

Overbaking or using too much flour can lead to dry donuts. Be careful not to overmix and monitor baking time closely.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Sugar Donuts with Vanilla Glaze are a deliciously satisfying homemade treat that’s easy to prepare and even easier to love. With warm spices, tender texture, and a sweet finish, these donuts are sure to brighten any morning or dessert table. Whether served fresh out of the oven or reheated the next day, they’re a timeless favorite.

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