There’s something comforting about the smell of cinnamon sugar baking in your kitchen. It brings back memories of warm, fresh donuts from the bakery. But what if you could have that same cozy experience without leaving your home? With vegetarian cinnamon sugar donut muffins, you can create those sweet, nostalgic flavors in your oven—and you don’t even need a donut pan. These easy-to-make muffins are perfect for breakfast, snack time, or any moment when you want something special.
Let’s walk through everything you need to know to bake the perfect batch. If you love cinnamon-filled treats, you might also enjoy these Overnight Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls.
What Are Vegetarian Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins?
Vegetarian Donut Muffins Explained
Vegetarian cinnamon sugar donut muffins bring the best of two worlds together: the soft, cake-like texture of a muffin and the sweet, spiced coating of a cinnamon sugar donut. Unlike traditional donuts, these muffins are baked, not fried, making them simpler and healthier.
Why You’ll Love These Muffins
- No frying required
- Quick prep and bake time
- Family-friendly and freezer-friendly
- Full of cinnamon sugar flavor in every bite
For another sweet, cinnamon-inspired bake, check out this Sourdough Apple Fritter Bread.
Ingredients for Vegetarian Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins
You don’t need anything fancy to make these muffins. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples.
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted (or plant-based butter)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg (or a flax egg for vegan option)
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup melted butter (or plant-based butter)
How to Make Vegetarian Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Start by mixing your dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar, egg, milk, and vanilla extract. Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Don’t overmix—you want the muffins to stay soft and tender.
Step 2: Bake the Muffins
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a muffin pan or place muffin liners in each cup. Fill each cup about ¾ full. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the muffins cool for 5 minutes before removing them from the pan.
Step 3: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
While the muffins are still warm, brush each one with melted butter and roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. This creates that classic donut shop look and texture.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Creative Ways to Enjoy Your Muffins
- Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
- Add a glaze: Add a drizzle of powdered sugar glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Try mini muffins: Perfect for bite-sized treats at parties or brunch.
- Switch the coating: Use a cocoa sugar mix for a chocolate twist.
Tips for Perfect Muffins Every Time
- Let your butter and milk come to room temperature before mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter; this keeps the muffins light and fluffy.
- Always coat the muffins while they’re still warm for the best cinnamon sugar stick.
- If you’re making a vegan version, a flax egg and plant-based milk work beautifully.
FAQs
Can I make these muffins vegan?
Absolutely! Swap the butter for plant-based butter, use your favorite non-dairy milk, and replace the egg with a flax egg.
How long do these muffins stay fresh?
They’re best within 1-2 days but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze these muffins?
Yes, they can be frozen for up to two months. Just reheat in the microwave or oven when ready to eat.
Do I need a donut pan for this recipe?
No donut pan needed! Regular muffin tins work perfectly.
Are baked muffins healthier than fried donuts?
Yes, baking instead of frying means less oil and fewer calories while still giving you a soft, sweet treat.
Bring the Donut Shop Home
Vegetarian cinnamon sugar donut muffins are simple, satisfying, and perfect for anyone who loves a soft, sugary bite without the hassle of frying. You can bake them in less than 30 minutes, and they’re easy to customize with plant-based ingredients if you prefer a vegan option.
So go ahead—try this recipe and bring that cozy donut shop experience into your own kitchen. Once you taste these muffins warm and fresh from the oven, you’ll want to bake them again and again!
Vegetarian Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins
Ingredients
For the Muffins:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg optional
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted (or plant-based butter)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg or flax egg for vegan option
- 1 cup milk dairy or plant-based
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup melted butter or plant-based butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a muffin tin or use muffin liners.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, egg, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Gently mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Divide batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let muffins cool for 5 minutes, then remove from the pan.
- Brush each muffin with melted butter while warm, then roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For vegan muffins, substitute with plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and a flax egg.
- Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored for up to 4 days.
- Perfect for freezing and reheating for quick treats.
