Cinnamon Roll Baked Donuts Recipe

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If you adore the comforting swirl of cinnamon and sugar in a classic dessert, then these Cinnamon Roll Baked Donuts are about to become your new favorite treat. Imagine soft, fluffy baked donuts infused with that same warm cinnamon goodness, finished with a sweet glaze that perfectly mimics the irresistible charm of cinnamon rolls—but in a fun, handheld donut form. Whether you’re craving a cozy breakfast or a delightful snack, Cinnamon Roll Baked Donuts bring that familiar flavor you love, wrapped up in a lighter, less messy package that’s as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple pantry staples, yet each one plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect balance of lightness, sweetness, and that classic cinnamon kick. From the fluffy cake-like texture to the sweet glaze that finishes it off, every component matters.

• Flour: Provides the structure for the donuts and keeps them tender yet firm enough to hold their shape.
• Sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps the donuts brown beautifully in the oven.
• Baking powder: Works as a leavening agent to make the donuts light and fluffy.
• Baking soda: Enhances the rise and tender crumb, especially when combined with acidic notes like cinnamon.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Milk: Moisturizes the batter and ensures the donuts stay soft after baking.
• Melted butter: Adds a luscious richness and helps create the tender crumb.
• Cinnamon: The signature spice that infuses the donuts with that unmistakable cinnamon roll flavor.
• Glaze (powdered sugar + milk): The perfect sweet finishing touch that adds shine and an extra layer of flavor.

How to Make Cinnamon Roll Baked Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by setting your oven to 180°C. Preheating is key to ensure your donuts bake evenly and develop a lovely golden color. While the oven warms up, you can gather and prep the rest of your ingredients.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and cinnamon. This blend of dry ingredients forms the flavorful base of your donuts and ensures the cinnamon is evenly distributed in every bite.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour in the milk, crack in the egg, and add the melted butter. Mix just until combined—overmixing can make the donuts tough. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick, ready to be spooned into your donut pan.

Step 4: Fill the Donut Pan

Grease your donut pan lightly, then spoon the batter into each cavity, filling about three-quarters full to give the donuts room to rise. This step sets the stage for the perfect donut shape and texture.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Pop your pan in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the donuts spring back to the touch and have a light golden hue. Let them cool slightly before adding the glaze.

Step 6: Add the Sweet Glaze

Mix powdered sugar with a little milk until smooth and drizzle it generously over your warm but not hot donuts. The glaze seeps in just a bit, adding the ideal sweet finish that makes these Cinnamon Roll Baked Donuts utterly irresistible.

How to Serve Cinnamon Roll Baked Donuts

Garnishes

To elevate these baked treats, consider sprinkling a dash of extra cinnamon or some finely chopped pecans on top of the glaze while it’s still wet. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a pretty, bakery-style touch. For a bit of fun, you can even swirl in a drizzle of cream cheese icing to mimic that classic cinnamon roll glaze even more closely.

Side Dishes

These donuts pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea to complement their warm spice flavors. Fresh fruit like apple slices or berries balance the sweetness and add a refreshing contrast. For a brunch setting, serve alongside scrambled eggs or crispy bacon to create a delightful sweet and savory experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your batch of Cinnamon Roll Baked Donuts into a dessert platter by stacking them on a tiered cake stand, or place a few on small plates with dollops of whipped cream and a sprig of mint. Wrapping individual donuts in parchment with a tied twine ribbon also makes for an adorable way to share these treats as gifts or party favors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cinnamon Roll Baked Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed within one day to retain their soft, fluffy texture and fresh cinnamon flavor.

Freezing

If you want to keep these donuts longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Frozen Cinnamon Roll Baked Donuts can stay fresh for up to one month, making it easy to enjoy a quick treat anytime.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers, warm the donuts briefly in a microwave for about 15 seconds or pop them in a toaster oven until just heated through. This will revive their softness and bring back that freshly baked warmth, perfect for melting the glaze slightly once more.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free flour for these Cinnamon Roll Baked Donuts?

Yes, you can substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just be sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to help keep the donuts’ structure intact.

Is it possible to make these donuts without a donut pan?

If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin and shape the batter slightly to mimic the ring shape, but keep in mind they will bake differently and might not have the classic donut hole.

Can I add nuts or raisins into the batter?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch, and raisins provide little bursts of sweetness that work beautifully with the cinnamon flavor.

What is the best way to make the glaze thicker or thinner?

Adjust the glaze consistency by adding more powdered sugar to thicken it or a splash more milk to thin it out until you reach your desired texture.

Are these donuts suitable for breakfast or just dessert?

They are perfect for both! Their mild sweetness and cinnamon flavor make them a comforting breakfast alongside coffee, yet they’re just as delightful as a sweet dessert or snack any time of day.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about Cinnamon Roll Baked Donuts that combines nostalgia, ease, and deliciousness all in one bite-sized treat. Whether you make them for a special occasion or just to brighten an ordinary day, these baked donuts offer a wonderful way to savor that classic cinnamon roll flavor without any fuss. Go ahead and try this recipe—you’re going to love sharing these warm, glazed gems with everyone you care about!

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