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The classic taste of old-fashioned doughnuts in the easy, oven-baked form of a muffin. Sweet, spiced, and irresistible!
Introduction and Origin
Muffins That Taste Like Doughnuts are a clever hybrid that brings together the comforting flavor of a cinnamon-sugar donut and the simplicity of a home-baked muffin. These treats first rose in popularity as a nostalgic, budget-friendly alternative to fried donuts, offering the same warm, sweet flavor with less fuss and no deep-frying. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, they’re a timeless favorite in kitchens across America.
Cultural Significance
In American baking culture, donuts are iconic—from classic glazed to powdered sugar-covered varieties. But traditional donuts require frying, which can be time-consuming and messy. This recipe reflects the ingenuity of home bakers who wanted to recreate that familiar taste in a healthier, easier way. The result is a muffin that captures the essence of an old-fashioned cake donut—cozy, cinnamony, and satisfying—without the fryer.
Ingredients Quantity
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional cinnamon-sugar topping (highly recommended):
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Optional Additions
- Dash of cinnamon in the batter for extra spice
- Mini chocolate chips or a sprinkle of chopped nuts
- Swap vanilla for almond extract for a twist
- Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for a tangier flavor
- Add a fruit jam filling for a “jelly donut” surprise
Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix the batter—mix just until combined for a tender crumb.
- Use a cookie scoop for evenly-sized muffins.
- Let the muffins cool slightly before dipping in butter and cinnamon sugar so the coating sticks well.
- Nutmeg is key—don’t skip it! It gives that classic donut flavor.
- These are best enjoyed warm or on the day they’re made.
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line with paper liners.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar and egg until light and fluffy.
- Add oil, milk, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Scoop batter into prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While muffins are baking, prepare the cinnamon-sugar topping:
Melt butter in a small bowl. In another bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon. - Let muffins cool slightly, then dip the tops in butter, then roll or sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Description
These muffins are tender and moist with a soft, cakey texture. The nutmeg-infused batter delivers that old-fashioned donut flavor, while the buttery cinnamon-sugar coating adds just the right crunch and sweetness. Each bite tastes like something straight from a bakery case—without needing a fryer.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per muffin, based on 12 muffins and without topping)
- Calories: 160
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Sugar: 11g
- Fiber: <1g
- Sodium: 90mg
With cinnamon-sugar topping, add approx. 60–80 calories per muffin.
Conclusion and Recommendation
Muffins That Taste Like Doughnuts are the perfect treat for when you’re craving a donut but want something simpler and oven-friendly. They’re quick to make, kid-approved, and great for serving at breakfast, brunch, or casual get-togethers. Make a double batch—they disappear fast!
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To lighten these muffins without losing their charm:
- Swap half the flour for whole wheat flour for extra fiber.
- Use unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt in place of some oil.
- Try a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener for reduced sugar.
- Skip or lightly brush the cinnamon-sugar topping if watching calories.
These tweaks still deliver warm, nostalgic flavor—so you can enjoy a sweet indulgence while staying mindful of your wellness goals.
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