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Introduction

If you love the soft, pillowy texture of donuts but prefer the ease of muffins, this recipe for vegetarian cinnamon sugar donut muffins is a must-try! These treats are quick to make, require no frying, and deliver the same warm, sugary goodness you crave in a donut. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up, these muffins combine the nostalgic flavors of cinnamon and sugar with a modern, vegetarian twist. Whether you’re serving guests or treating yourself, these muffins will become a favorite in no time!

Vegetarian Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins

Author: Charlotte

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Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Wet Ingredients

½ cup whole milk (or a plant-based alternative like almond or oat milk)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (or a dairy-free butter substitute)
1 large egg (or a flaxseed egg substitute)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Topping

½ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
¼ cup melted butter

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin or line it with paper liners.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, egg (or substitute), and vanilla extract.
Combine Wet and Dry: Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the muffins tender.
Fill Muffin Tin: Spoon the batter into the muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
Bake: Bake for 15-18 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Prepare Topping: While the muffins are baking, mix the sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
Coat Muffins: Once muffins are slightly cooled, brush them with melted butter and roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

Notes

Use Fresh Cinnamon: The quality of your cinnamon impacts the flavor. Opt for fresh, fragrant cinnamon for the best results.
Substitute for Egg-Free Version: Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water).
Keep Muffins Moist: Store muffins in an airtight container to keep them soft and fresh for up to three days.

Why Cinnamon Sugar is a Winning Flavor

Cinnamon and sugar are a timeless combination. The warmth of cinnamon paired with the sweetness of sugar creates a comforting flavor profile that’s both nostalgic and universally loved. The granulated sugar adds a slight crunch, while the cinnamon infuses its aromatic notes into every bite. This duo elevates simple baked goods into crave-worthy delights, making it a staple in desserts worldwide.

Tips for Perfect Muffins

Measure Accurately: Baking is a science, so use measuring cups and spoons to ensure the perfect ratio of ingredients.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow the milk and egg to come to room temperature for smoother mixing and even baking.
Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until the dry ingredients are incorporated. Overmixing can lead to dense muffins.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh baking powder and cinnamon for the best results.

Variations to Try

Add a Filling: Inject a dollop of jam or Nutella into the center of each muffin before baking for a surprise burst of flavor.
Spice It Up: Mix a pinch of nutmeg or allspice into the batter for added depth.
Make it Vegan: Substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg, use plant-based milk, and opt for vegan butter.

Serving Suggestions

These cinnamon sugar donut muffins pair beautifully with a hot beverage. Serve them alongside:

A cup of freshly brewed coffee or a latte.
Chai tea with its complementary spicy notes.
Warm apple cider for a seasonal twist.

For an indulgent dessert, top the muffins with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Why Choose Vegetarian Baking?

Vegetarian baking focuses on using wholesome, plant-based ingredients while still delivering delicious results. It eliminates the need for animal-derived additives, offering a healthier and more sustainable approach to traditional recipes. This muffin recipe highlights how easy and satisfying vegetarian baking can be, proving that you don’t need to compromise on flavor or texture to align with your dietary preferences.

FAQ

1. Can I freeze these muffins?
Yes, you can freeze them for up to three months. Freeze without the topping and coat them with cinnamon sugar after reheating.

2. Can I make mini muffins instead?
Absolutely! Use a mini muffin tin and adjust the baking time to 10-12 minutes.

3. What’s the best plant-based milk to use?
Almond and oat milk work best for their neutral flavors and creamy texture.

Final Thoughts

Vegetarian cinnamon sugar donut muffins are a delightful fusion of two beloved treats. They’re easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. The comforting cinnamon sugar coating combined with the soft muffin base makes them impossible to resist. Try them today and discover your new favorite sweet treat!