Old Fashioned Donut Muffins Recipe

A Delicious Nostalgic Treat

Introduction

Craving the comforting taste of an old-fashioned donut but want something easy to make at home? These Old Fashioned Donut Muffins are the perfect solution! They combine the soft, cakey texture of a classic donut with the ease of baking muffins. With warm spices, a rich buttery flavor, and a delicious glaze, these muffins are a delightful treat for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack. If you’re a fan of bakery-style donuts but don’t want to deal with frying, this is the perfect recipe for you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: No need for special equipment or deep frying—just mix, bake, and glaze.
  • Perfectly Spiced: The blend of nutmeg and cinnamon gives that classic old-fashioned donut flavor.
  • Great for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving them for brunch, packing them for a snack, or sharing them with friends, these muffins are always a hit.
  • Customizable: Add a twist by swapping ingredients or using different toppings.

Ingredients

For the Muffins:

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
  • ¼ cup vegetable oil
  • ½ cup sugar
  • ⅓ cup brown sugar
  • 2 eggs, at room temperature
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ¼ tsp baking soda
  • ¾ tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ¾ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 ⅔ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk

For the Glaze:

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • ¾ tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tbsp hot water

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or hand mixer
  • Muffin pan (12-count)
  • Muffin liners
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula
  • Cooling rack
  • Small bowl for glaze
  • Whisk

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a muffin pan with 12 muffin liners.

2. Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter, vegetable oil, sugar, and brown sugar. Cream together until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Stir in the baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined.

3. Incorporate the Dry and Wet Ingredients

Add 1 cup of flour and stir until just combined. Then, add half of the milk and mix. Repeat the process by adding another cup of flour, the remaining milk, and finally the last portion of flour. Mix until fully combined, but be careful not to overmix.

4. Bake the Muffins

Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared muffin cups, filling them nearly to the top. Bake for 15 minutes or until the muffins are golden brown and springy to the touch.

5. Cool the Muffins

Let the muffins cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and hot water until smooth.

7. Glaze the Muffins

Dip each muffin into the glaze and allow it to set. Once the first layer of glaze hardens, dip them a second time for an extra sweet finish.

Tips and Variations

  • Make It Healthier: Swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a fiber boost.
  • Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Instead of glazing, roll warm muffins in melted butter and then in cinnamon sugar for a classic donut coating.
  • Add a Filling: Inject a bit of jam or custard into the muffins for a surprise center.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Use almond or oat milk and substitute butter with coconut oil.
  • Nutmeg-Free Version: If you’re not a fan of nutmeg, try substituting with extra cinnamon or even a touch of cardamom for a twist.

Storage and Leftovers

These muffins are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes.

What to Serve With Old Fashioned Donut Muffins

  • Coffee or Tea: The warm spices pair beautifully with a cup of black coffee or chai tea.
  • Fresh Fruit: Serve with berries or sliced apples for a refreshing contrast.
  • Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream can elevate these muffins for a more indulgent dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Make These Muffins Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature and bake as directed.

Can I Use a Different Type of Flour?

All-purpose flour works best for this recipe, but you can use a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour may make the muffins slightly denser.

How Do I Get a Perfectly Smooth Glaze?

For a smooth glaze, sift the powdered sugar before mixing, and make sure your butter is fully melted. If the glaze thickens too quickly, add a drop of hot water to loosen it.

Can I Make These Muffins Without the Glaze?

Absolutely! These muffins taste fantastic on their own, or you can dust them with powdered sugar for a lighter topping.

How Can I Make Mini Muffins?

Use a mini muffin pan and reduce the baking time to about 10-12 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center.

Final Thoughts

These Old Fashioned Donut Muffins are a must-try for anyone who loves the flavors of a classic donut but wants the convenience of a muffin. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with others! Be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and baking inspiration. Happy baking!

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