Muffins That Taste Like Doughnuts

These muffins are the perfect hybrid of a soft, fluffy muffin and a sweet, spiced doughnut. With their tender crumb, hint of nutmeg, and sugary exterior, they’re a breakfast or snack treat that’s as irresistible as your favorite doughnut—minus the frying!

Ingredients

(Makes 12 muffins)

• 3/4 cup sugar , plus extra for rolling (about 1/2 cup for coating)
• 1 large egg
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 3/4 cup milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
2. Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly with nonstick spray.
3. Place about 1/2 cup of sugar in a small bowl for rolling the muffins after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour , baking powder , salt , and nutmeg . Set aside.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk the sugar and egg together until smooth and slightly frothy.
2. Add the vegetable oil , milk , and vanilla extract to the sugar-egg mixture. Whisk until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—the batter should be lumpy but free of large flour pockets.

Step 5: Fill the Muffin Tin

1. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full . A cookie scoop or spoon works well for this step.

Step 6: Bake the Muffins

1. Bake for 18–20 minutes , or until the muffins are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Remove the muffins from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 7: Roll in Sugar

1. While the muffins are still warm (but not too hot to handle), gently roll each one in the bowl of sugar to coat the exterior evenly. The warmth helps the sugar stick, creating a sweet, doughnut-like crust.
2. Place the sugared muffins on the wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success

• Nutmeg Flavor: Ground nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that mimics the flavor of doughnuts. If you don’t have nutmeg, you can substitute with cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice.
• Sugar Coating: For an extra-tasty twist, mix cinnamon into the sugar used for rolling.
• Storage: Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but you can refresh them by warming briefly in the microwave or oven.
• Glaze Option: For a doughnut-inspired glaze, whisk together 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons milk, and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Drizzle over the cooled muffins for added sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Muffins That Taste Like Doughnuts are a healthier alternative to deep-fried treats without sacrificing flavor or texture. The sugary coating gives them a delightful crunch, while the nutmeg-infused batter delivers that nostalgic doughnut taste. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these muffins are easy to make and sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Indulge in these melt-in-your-mouth muffins—they’re like doughnuts, but better!