You know that smell—warm cinnamon swirling through the air, sugar dusted on your fingertips, and the soft, pillowy texture melting in your mouth? That’s Grandma’s magic right there. These donut muffins take me straight back to her kitchen table, where we’d sneak bites before breakfast was even served. Fluffy like clouds but with that perfect little crunch from cinnamon sugar on top, they’re the kind of treat that feels like a hug in food form. Grab your favorite mug and get ready to make a batch that’s just as comforting and irresistible as my grandma’s.
Quick Facts
Yield: Serves 12
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp salt
¾ cup whole milk
2 large eggs
⅓ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
How I Make It
Step 1:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a 12-cup muffin tin or lining it with paper liners. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt—this is where that cozy cinnamon flavor begins to wake up.
Step 2:
In another bowl, beat the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla until fully combined and smooth. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry mix and gently fold them together with a spatula until just combined—don’t overmix! The batter should be thick but still a bit lumpy.
Step 3:
Divide the batter evenly into your muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. Pop the tray into the oven and bake for about 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. While these are baking, get your cinnamon sugar ready!
Step 4:
Mix the ½ cup sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Melt the extra 3 tablespoons of butter for brushing.
Step 5:
As soon as the muffins are out of the oven, brush the tops generously with melted butter—this helps the cinnamon sugar stick and makes the tops beautifully glossy.
Step 6:
Roll each muffin top in the cinnamon sugar mixture, coat them well, then set on a wire rack to cool just enough so you don’t burn your fingers but still enjoy that warm melt-in-your-mouth feeling.
Variations & Tips
If you love nuts, add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a delightful crunch.
Swap the milk for buttermilk to add a slight tang and extra fluffiness.
For a chocolate twist, sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the batter before baking.
Use a large cookie scoop for evenly sized muffins every time.
If your muffins dome unevenly, try lowering the oven temperature to 350°F and bake a bit longer.
How I Like to Serve It
These cinnamon sugar donut muffins are my go-to for weekend brunch paired with a steaming mug of coffee or hot cocoa. They also make excellent after-school snacks that feel a little indulgent but totally homemade. In colder months, I love wrapping them up as little gifts for neighbors—who can resist a warm cinnamon treat?
Notes
Store finished muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days—reheat briefly in the microwave for that fresh-baked warmth.
Butter in the batter can be swapped with neutral oil for a lighter texture.
Closing: These muffins capture the warmth and sweet simplicity of Grandma’s kitchen—once you try them, you’ll see why they’re a family favorite for good reason.
Hi, I’m Lina, the creator of Lina Easy Recipes. Cooking has always been my passion, and I love sharing simple, homemade dishes that anyone can prepare.
