If you’re looking to add a little holiday magic to your brunch table, this Christmas Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe is exactly what you need. These muffins are wonderfully soft and fluffy on the inside, while each one gets lovingly coated in a warm, buttery cinnamon sugar glaze that brings all the cozy flavors of the season into every bite. They’re a total crowd-pleaser and perfect for sharing with family and friends during festive mornings or holiday gatherings. Once you try this recipe, it’s guaranteed to become a beloved tradition in your cooking repertoire!

Christmas Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these few simple yet essential ingredients is all it takes to whip up a batch of these irresistible Christmas Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe. Each component works together perfectly to deliver delightful texture, flavor, and that inviting golden color that will make your kitchen smell like holiday heaven.

1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: The base for your muffins, providing structure and softness.
¾ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create the tender crumb texture.
2 tsp baking powder: The leavening agent that gives these muffins their light, fluffy rise.
¼ tsp nutmeg: This warm spice adds a subtle holiday hint that enhances the cinnamon flavor.
¾ cup milk: Moistens the batter and helps create that perfect tender crumb.
⅓ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the muffins moist and soft without heaviness.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and contributes to the muffins’ structure.
¼ cup melted butter (for topping): Used to coat the muffins before the cinnamon sugar, making it stick and adding richness.
½ cup sugar (for topping): Combines with cinnamon to create that classic sweet crunch.
1 tsp cinnamon (for topping): The star spice of the recipe, giving it a festive, warming flavor.

How to Make Christmas Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Lightly grease your muffin pan so the muffin tops don’t stick, making it easy to pop them out once they’re baked to perfection.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and nutmeg. Mixing these dry elements evenly ensures every bite is packed with balanced flavor and the muffins rise just right.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, vegetable oil, and egg until thoroughly combined. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients, then stir gently until just blended. The batter should be smooth but don’t overmix it—you want tender muffins, not dense ones.

Step 4: Bake the Muffins

Divide the batter evenly into the prepared muffin pan. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The muffins will be lightly golden and springy to the touch.

Step 5: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

While the muffins are still warm, dip each one into the melted butter and then roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This coating sets quickly and creates that iconic sweet, buttery crust that makes this Christmas Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe so unforgettable.

How to Serve Christmas Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe

Garnishes

These muffins don’t need much to shine, but if you want to add that little extra holiday sparkle, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of vanilla glaze works beautifully. Fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds on the side bring color and fresh tartness to balance the cinnamon sugar.

Side Dishes

Pair these muffins with a warm cup of spiced tea, mulled cider, or rich coffee for a breakfast that feels like a festive hug. They also go wonderfully alongside creamy scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad to round out your brunch spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the muffins in a rustic wooden basket lined with a festive napkin, or stack them on a tiered cake stand for an eye-catching centerpiece. For a party, you can skew multiple muffins on cinnamon sticks for a fun and edible display that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Christmas Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe left over, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the muffins soft while maintaining the crispy cinnamon sugar coating.

Freezing

To freeze, place the muffins in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen muffins can be kept for up to three months and are a convenient treat to enjoy anytime during the holiday season.

Reheating

Warm frozen or leftover muffins in a microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5-7 minutes. This breathes life back into their tender texture and refreshes the buttery cinnamon sugar topping.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of oil for this recipe?

Absolutely! While vegetable oil is recommended for its neutral flavor, you can swap it for canola or light olive oil without significantly changing the texture or taste.

Are these muffins gluten-free?

This particular Christmas Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make them gluten-free, you could experiment with a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may vary slightly.

Can I make these muffins dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the milk with any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil instead of butter for dipping. The flavor will still be delightful and festive.

How do I prevent the muffins from becoming too dense?

Be careful not to overmix the batter after adding the wet ingredients. Stir just until combined to keep your muffins light and fluffy.

Can these muffins be made into mini muffins?

Definitely! Just reduce the baking time to about 10-12 minutes and keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking. Mini muffins make for perfect bite-sized holiday treats.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe is truly one of those holiday gems that bring smiles and warmth every time you make it. So grab your mixing bowl, gather your ingredients, and create some sweet memories with these fluffy, buttery delights. They’re guaranteed to become an instant favorite for you and everyone you share them with!

Christmas Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe