Mini Muffins That Taste Like Donuts
If you’re looking for a bite-sized treat that satisfies your craving for donuts but takes less time and effort to make, these mini muffins are the perfect solution. They’re soft, fluffy, and coated in a cinnamon-sugar topping that makes them taste just like classic donuts. They’re easy to whip up and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack. Here’s everything you need to know to make these irresistible mini muffins.
Ingredients:
For the Muffins:
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C) and grease 24 mini-muffin cups to prevent sticking.
- Make the batter: In a large bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of melted butter, and the ground nutmeg until well combined. Stir in the milk. Add the baking powder and flour, mixing just until everything is incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the muffins dense.
- Fill the muffin cups: Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin cups, filling them about halfway.
- Bake the muffins: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the topping: While the muffins are baking, melt 1/4 cup of butter in a small bowl. In another bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of sugar and the ground cinnamon for the coating.
- Coat the muffins: Once the muffins are baked and have cooled enough to handle, remove them from their cups. Dip each muffin into the melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
- Cool and serve: Let the muffins cool completely on a wire rack. These mini muffins can be served warm or at room temperature.
Tips for Making the Best Mini Muffins That Taste Like Donuts:
- Don’t Overmix: To keep your muffins light and fluffy, mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can result in dense muffins.
- Nutmeg Flavor: Nutmeg is the key ingredient that gives these mini muffins their donut-like flavor. However, if you’re not a fan of nutmeg, you can reduce the amount or leave it out entirely. You can also try adding cinnamon or even a dash of vanilla extract for a slightly different taste.
- Make Them Ahead: These muffins can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container. They taste just as good the next day and are a great option for meal prepping breakfast.
- Use a Mini Muffin Pan: If you don’t have a mini muffin pan, you can use a regular muffin pan. Just adjust the baking time by adding a few more minutes and test for doneness with a toothpick.
- Alternative Topping: While the cinnamon-sugar topping is classic, you can also try dusting the muffins with powdered sugar or glazing them with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk for a different take.
- Butter Substitution: You can use margarine instead of butter, but for the best flavor, real butter is recommended.
FAQ:
1. Can I use regular-sized muffin cups instead of mini-muffin cups?
Yes, you can! However, you’ll need to adjust the baking time. Regular-sized muffins will take about 18-22 minutes to bake. Be sure to check them with a toothpick to ensure they’re cooked through.
2. Can I freeze these mini muffins?
Yes! You can freeze the muffins after they’ve cooled and been coated in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
3. Can I add other spices to the batter?
Absolutely! While nutmeg gives these muffins their donut-like taste, you can also experiment with other spices like cinnamon, allspice, or even a pinch of cardamom for a unique twist.
4. Can I make these muffins without the cinnamon-sugar topping?
Yes, you can skip the topping if you prefer, but the cinnamon-sugar coating is what gives these muffins their donut-like quality. If you’d like a different flavor, you can dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle a simple glaze on top.
5. Can I make these dairy-free?
To make these muffins dairy-free, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use a non-dairy milk such as almond milk or oat milk.
Conclusion:
These Mini Muffins That Taste Like Donuts are an easy and delicious treat that’s sure to please everyone. The cinnamon-sugar coating gives them that irresistible donut flavor, while the soft, fluffy inside makes them the perfect breakfast or snack. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can have a batch of these delightful mini muffins ready to go in no time!