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What kind of recipe is it?
Cinnamon-sugar donuts for Thanksgiving are a delightful baked treat that perfectly captures the essence of the holiday season.
These soft, fluffy donuts are coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar blend, offering a comforting flavor that appeals to both children and adults.
Their easy-to-follow recipe makes them a fantastic choice for novice bakers or those looking to add a festive dessert to their Thanksgiving spread.
Perfect for gatherings or cozy family breakfasts, these donuts bring warmth and joy to your holiday celebration.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup |
| Baking powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Milk | 3/4 cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Unsalted butter | 1/4 cup (melted) |
| Brown sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Ground cinnamon (for coating) | 1 tablespoon |
| Granulated sugar (for coating) | 1/4 cup |
Cooking Steps
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Position the oven rack in the middle for even heat distribution.
2. Grease a donut pan (12-cavity) with non-stick cooking spray or melted unsalted butter to prevent sticking.
3. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 240 g (2 cups) of all-purpose flour, 150 g (3/4 cup) of granulated sugar, 8 g (2 teaspoons) of baking powder, 2 g (1 teaspoon) of ground cinnamon, and 3 g (1/2 teaspoon) of salt until well combined.
4. In a separate large mixing bowl, combine 180 ml (3/4 cup) of milk, 2 large eggs, 5 ml (1 teaspoon) of vanilla extract, and 60 g (1/4 cup) of melted unsalted butter.
Mix thoroughly until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined.
Don’t overmix; a few lumps are acceptable.
6. Transfer the batter into a piping bag or quart-sized resealable plastic bag, and cut off one corner to easily dispense the batter.
7. Fill each cavity of the greased donut pan about three-quarters full with the batter.
This allows room for rising without overflowing.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when gently pressed in the center and are lightly golden on the edges.
Aromas of vanilla and cinnamon will fill the kitchen.
9. While the donuts bake, prepare the coating by combining 50 g (1/4 cup) of granulated sugar and 8 g (1 tablespoon) of ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
10. Upon baking, remove the pan from the oven and allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes.
Then, use a knife to gently lift them from the pan onto a wire rack to cool slightly.
11. While still warm, dip each donut into the cinnamon-sugar mixture, turning to coat evenly.
Confirm you cover all sides for a flavorful finish.
12. Transfer the coated donuts back to the wire rack and allow them to cool completely for an additional 5-10 minutes, confirming the sugar coating adheres well.
13. Serve the donuts fresh or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for a few minutes if desired.
14. Enjoy the warm, spiced aroma and the sweet crispiness of the cinnamon-sugar coating!
Variations
- Gluten-Free Cinnamon-Sugar Donuts: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend (240 g / 2 cups) to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan Cinnamon-Sugar Donuts: Replace eggs with 60 g (1/4 cup) of unsweetened applesauce and use almond milk (180 ml / 3/4 cup) instead of regular milk, and opt for vegan butter (60 g / 1/4 cup).
- Pumpkin Spice Donuts: Integrate 120 g (1/2 cup) of canned pumpkin puree into the wet mixture and increase the ground cinnamon to 4 g (1 teaspoon) for an autumn-inspired flavor.
- Chocolate Cinnamon-Sugar Donuts: Fold in 50 g (1/2 cup) of cocoa powder into the dry ingredients for a chocolate twist, pairing beautifully with the cinnamon-sugar coating.
Tips on plating and presentation
Creating an eye-catching presentation for your cinnamon-sugar donuts can elevate your Thanksgiving spread.
I like to arrange them on a rustic wooden board, adding a few apple slices and sprigs of mint for color. Drizzling the apple glaze artistically over the donuts creates visual interest.
Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra cinnamon sugar around for a warm, inviting touch that screams festive!
What other dishes can I pair it with?
While planning your Thanksgiving menu, consider pairing these cinnamon-sugar donuts with warm apple cider or a rich pumpkin spice latte.
They also complement a cozy bowl of butternut squash soup or roasted sweet potatoes, enhancing that autumnal vibe.
For a festive twist, I love serving them alongside a cheese platter featuring sharp cheddar and creamy Brie.
It’s a delightful balance of flavors!
What drinks can I pair it with?
Have you ever wondered what drinks perfectly complement the sweet spice of cinnamon-sugar donuts? I love pairing them with a warm, spiced apple cider; the flavors blend beautifully.
A rich, creamy coffee also does wonders, as it balances sweetness. For a lighter option, a sparkling chai tea can enhance the cinnamon notes, making every bite just heavenly.
Enjoy experimenting with these delightful combinations!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Store-Bought Glaze Instead of Making My Own?
I often grab store-bought glaze when I’m short on time. It’s convenient and still delicious. Just make sure to choose a flavor that complements what you’re serving, and you’re good to go!
How Long Do These Donuts Stay Fresh?
They’ll stay fresh for about two days if stored in an airtight container at room temperature. I usually recommend enjoying them within that time frame for the best flavor and texture. After, they might become stale.
Can I Freeze Leftover Donuts?
Yes, you can freeze leftover donuts! I wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They stay fresh for up to three months, making future treats easy!
Are There Any Gluten-Free Options for This Recipe?
Yes, you can definitely use gluten-free flour blends instead of regular flour to make this recipe. I’ve found that they yield similar delicious results, so you won’t miss out on taste or texture!
What’s the Best Way to Store These Donuts?
I store these donuts in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh. If they’re glazed, I layer parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. They’re best enjoyed within a couple of days!