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Gingerbread Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar


  • Author: Sara Bernard
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 donuts 1x

Description

These soft and spiced gingerbread donuts are baked (or fried) to perfection and coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar topping. They make the perfect holiday breakfast or festive treat!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Donuts:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon cloves
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ⅓ cup molasses
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup buttermilk (or milk + ½ tablespoon vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 3 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan or baking sheet.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, molasses, egg, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 2: Bake the Donuts

  1. Spoon or pipe the batter into the greased donut pan, filling each mold about ¾ full.
  2. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the donut comes out clean.
  3. Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 3: Coat the Donuts in Cinnamon Sugar

  1. In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon.
  2. Lightly brush each warm donut with melted butter.
  3. Roll the donuts in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

  • Serve warm with coffee, hot chocolate, or spiced apple cider.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Notes

  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for gluten-free baking flour.
  • Vegan Option: Use flax eggs and plant-based milk instead of dairy.
  • Fried Version: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry for 1–2 minutes per side.
  • Extra Fluffy Tip: Use fresh baking soda and baking powder for the best rise.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Dessert
  • Cuisine: American, Holiday

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 donut
  • Calories: 210 kcal
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 180mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 5g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg