Vegetarian Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins: A Cozy, No-Fry Treat You’ll Crave

Last updated on April 6, 2025

You know those moments when you just need something warm, sweet, and soul-soothing—but don’t want to haul out the fryer or make a mess of your kitchen? That’s where these Vegetarian Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins shine. They’re soft, buttery, coated in cinnamon sugar, and taste just like your favorite bakery donut… minus the deep-fry drama.

I first made a batch of these on a chilly Sunday morning when the donut shop was closed, and my craving was loud and clear. I was floored. One bite of these golden, cinnamon-kissed muffins, and I was hooked. They’re now my go-to for everything from brunch spreads to lunchbox treats.

Let me show you why they deserve a spot in your recipe box too.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Vegetarian Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins

🧁 Fluffy, Donut-Like Texture—No Frying Required

These muffins come out of the oven soft and moist, with just enough structure to hold up to a generous butter bath and cinnamon sugar roll. It’s like biting into a donut cloud.

✨ Egg-Free & Vegetarian-Friendly

No eggs, no problem. Yogurt steps in to keep the batter rich and tender, making these perfect for vegetarians or anyone out of eggs. (We’ve all been there!)

🕒 Easy and Quick to Make

You don’t need fancy tools—just a bowl, a whisk, and a muffin tin. From craving to first bite in about 30 minutes.

🎨 Totally Customizable

Think jam-filled centers, Nutella swirls, or a simple vanilla glaze if you’re feeling fancy. This is a muffin that plays well with others.

👪 Loved by Kids & Grown-Ups Alike

That warm cinnamon sugar coating? Irresistible. These are the kind of treats that disappear from the counter before they’ve even cooled.

Ingredients You’ll Need (Nothing Fancy!)

👉 Skip the measurements here and jump straight to the printable recipe card below for exact quantities!

For the Muffins:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Ground cinnamon
• Salt
• Granulated sugar
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Milk (regular or plant-based)
• Vanilla extract
• Plain yogurt (use dairy-free if needed)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• Melted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Ground cinnamon

How to Make Vegetarian Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 12-cup muffin tin or line it with paper liners.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and sugar until well combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together melted butter, milk, yogurt, and vanilla extract. The yogurt makes everything creamy and rich.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. The batter should be thick but scoopable—don’t overmix or they’ll lose their fluff.

Step 5: Fill and Bake

Scoop the batter evenly into muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. Bake for 18–20 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 6: Cinnamon Sugar Magic

While the muffins are still warm, brush them with melted butter and roll generously in cinnamon sugar. This is where the donut vibes really kick in.

Flavor Upgrades and Variations

If you’re into creative muffin twists, don’t miss our Mini Chocolate Chip Muffins for a bite-sized chocolatey treat, or try something a little unexpected (and veggie-packed!) like these Courgette and Chocolate Muffins that are rich, moist, and totally crave-worthy.

• • Jam-Filled: Spoon in a bit of jam before baking for a sweet surprise.
  • Chocolate Chip: Stir in ½ cup mini chocolate chips.
  • Pumpkin Spice: Add a dash of nutmeg and swap yogurt for pumpkin puree.
  • Glazed: Skip the coating and drizzle with vanilla glaze.

Pro Tips for Muffin Perfection

• Don’t overmix the batter or your muffins will be tough.
• Always coat them while they’re still warm.
• Freeze uncoated muffins for up to 3 months. Just warm and roll in cinnamon sugar when ready to serve.

FAQs About Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins

1. Can I make these muffins vegan?

Yes! Use plant-based milk, dairy-free butter, and a non-dairy yogurt like coconut or almond-based yogurt.

2. Why did my muffins turn out dense?

Most likely overmixing. Stir just until the flour disappears.

3. Can I freeze these muffins?

Absolutely. Freeze them uncoated, and coat after reheating.

4. Can I use applesauce instead of yogurt?

Yes—applesauce works well and adds a hint of natural sweetness.

5. What’s the best way to reheat them?

Microwave for 10–15 seconds or pop in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes.

6. Are these good for kids?

Oh yes. Soft, sweet, and hand-held—kids love them!

7. Can I reduce the sugar?

You can slightly cut the sugar in the batter or skip the cinnamon sugar coating.

8. Can I make them gluten-free?

Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure not to overmix.

9. Do I need a muffin liner?

Not necessarily—just grease the pan well if skipping liners.

10. How long do they stay fresh?

Best enjoyed within 2 days, or store in the fridge for up to 5.

The Takeaway: Your New Favorite Muffin Recipe

These Vegetarian Cinnamon Sugar Donut Muffins are everything you love about donuts and muffins in one warm, sugar-dusted package. They’re easy enough for a weekday breakfast, special enough for a brunch spread, and cozy enough for curling up with a cup of tea. Once you try them, you’ll never look at a store-bought muffin the same way again.

So grab your whisk and let your kitchen smell like heaven—because these muffins are worth it.