Name: Mini Powdered Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Yield: 20
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ⅓ cup unsalted butter; ½ cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; ½ cup milk; 1½ cups white whole wheat flour; 1½ tsp baking powder; ½ tsp ground cinnamon; ½ tsp salt; 3 tbsp unsalted butter; ¾ cup confectioners’ sugar

In the realm of sweet delights, these mini powdered sugar donut muffins stand out with a charming twist on traditional donuts. They're bite-sized, fluffy, and coated with a heavenly layer of powdered sugar, ensuring each bite is a burst of sweetness. Ideal for breakfast, dessert or just a snack, they're the perfect treat for any time of day.

Photos of Mini Powdered Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe

These mini powdered sugar donut muffins require basic baking ingredients that can be found in almost any pantry. The one ingredient which might not be readily available is white whole wheat flour. This particular type of flour is milled from hard white wheat, resulting in a lighter flavor and texture compared to regular whole wheat flour. It can be found in the baking aisle of most supermarkets.

Essential Ingredients for Mini Powdered Sugar Donut Muffins

Unsalted butter: This provides the fat needed for a tender crumb. It also adds richness and depth of flavor. Make sure to use unsalted, as this allows you to control the salt level of your muffins.

Granulated sugar: It sweetens the muffins and helps to create a tender texture.

Egg: The egg acts as a binder, holding all the components together. It also gives the muffins structure and helps them rise.

Vanilla extract: Vanilla extract enhances the sweet flavors in the muffins.

Milk: Milk provides moisture and helps to create a smooth batter.

White whole wheat flour: This gives the muffins a lighter texture and flavor compared to regular whole wheat flour.

Baking powder: Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the muffins rise and become fluffy.

Ground cinnamon: Cinnamon adds a touch of warmth and spiciness.

Salt: Salt enhances all the other flavors in the muffins.

Confectioners’ sugar: Also known as powdered sugar, it's used for the coating, giving the muffins their signature sugar donut appearance.

One reader, Hoebart Rosenberger says:

These mini powdered sugar donut muffins are a delightful treat! They are so easy to make and taste absolutely delicious. The texture is perfect, and the powdered sugar coating adds a delightful sweetness. I highly recommend trying this recipe - it's a hit with everyone!

Hoebart Rosenberger

Techniques Required for Making Mini Powdered Sugar Donut Muffins

How to prepare the muffin batter: Cream the butter and sugar, then mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and milk. Gently stir in the dry ingredients until just combined.

How to fill the muffin tin: Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each about 2/3 full. Fill the empty muffin tins halfway with water for even baking.

How to make the topping: Melt the butter, then fully submerge each muffin into the melted butter and then into the powdered sugar, coating all sides generously and evenly.

How To Make Mini Powdered Sugar Donut Muffins

Complete your afternoon snack with these mini donut muffins. Donut and muffins in one tasty dessert that is soft and extra with powdered sugar on top.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 12 minutes

Cool Time: 5 minutes

Total: 32 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

⅓cupunsalted butter,(5 tablespoons) softened to room temperature
½cupgranulated sugar
1large egg
1tsppure vanilla extract
½cupmilk
1½cupswhite whole wheat flour,or all-purpose flour, spoon & leveled
1½tspbaking powder
½tspground cinnamon
½tspsalt
3tbspunsalted butter
¾cupconfectioners’ sugar

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (204 degrees C). Spray mini muffin pan with cooking spray and set aside.
In a large bowl using a handheld or stand mixer, cream ⅓ cup of butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed. Mix in the egg, vanilla extract, and milk.
Gently stir in flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt by hand. Do not overmix and stir until just combined.
Spoon batter into a prepared muffin tin that is about ⅔ of the way full. Fill the empty muffin tins halfway with water for even baking.
Bake for 11 to 12 minutes, watching the muffins closely. Allow muffins to cool for about 5 minutes.
While the muffins are cooling, prepare the topping. Melt 3 Tablespoons of butter for about 30 seconds in a small bowl in the microwave.
Stir and stick back in the microwave if not fully melted. Pour the powdered sugar into a separate small bowl.
Fully submerge each muffin into the melted butter and then into the powdered sugar. Coat all sides generously and evenly with powdered sugar.
Use more melted butter or powdered sugar if needed. Set upright on a cooling rack.

Nutrition

Calories: 118.09kcal
Fat: 5.46g
Saturated Fat: 3.27g
Trans Fat: 0.19g
Monounsaturated Fat: 1.41g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.34g
Carbohydrates: 16.44g
Fiber: 1.00g
Sugar: 9.78g
Protein: 1.75g
Cholesterol: 22.62mg
Sodium: 78.21mg
Calcium: 38.97mg
Potassium: 46.40mg
Iron: 0.42mg
Vitamin A: 47.26µg
Vitamin C: 0.00mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfect Mini Powdered Sugar Donut Muffins

When coating the muffins with powdered sugar, it's best to let them cool slightly but not completely. The residual heat will help the melted butter and sugar adhere better, creating a more even and luscious coating. Also, using a fork or a skewer to dip the muffins can help you get a better grip and prevent your fingers from getting messy. Remember, the key to a perfect coating is to ensure that every part of the muffin is well covered, so take your time and don't rush the process.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Mini Powdered Sugar Donut Muffins

Prep ahead: Measure and prepare all your ingredients before starting. This will streamline the cooking process and prevent any last-minute scrambling.

Efficient workspace: Keep your work area organized and clean to avoid wasting time searching for utensils or ingredients.

Multi-task: Look for opportunities to multitask, such as mixing ingredients while waiting for the oven to preheat or cleaning up as the muffins bake.

Use shortcuts: Utilize pre-made ingredients like pre-sifted flour or pre-chopped nuts to save time and effort.

Quick cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the post-cooking cleanup, making the process more efficient.

Substitute Ingredients For Mini Powdered Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and moisture to the recipe, and it also adds a hint of coconut flavor which can complement the other ingredients.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and moisture to the muffins, and it also brings a unique flavor profile to the recipe.
large egg - Substitute with applesauce: Applesauce can act as a binding agent and provide moisture to the muffins, while also reducing the fat content.
pure vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract can add a delightful nutty flavor to the muffins, providing a unique twist to the original recipe.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used as a dairy-free alternative, and it adds a subtle nutty flavor to the muffins.
white whole wheat flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used as a substitute if white whole wheat flour is not available, and it will yield a similar texture to the muffins.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda: If you use baking soda, you'll need an acidic ingredient such as buttermilk or yogurt to activate it. This will result in a slightly different texture and flavor in the muffins.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can provide a warm, slightly sweet and nutty flavor to the muffins, complementing the other ingredients.
unsalted butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a substitute for unsalted butter, providing a similar texture and flavor to the muffins.
confectioners’ sugar - Substitute with powdered erythritol: Powdered erythritol is a low-calorie sweetener that can be used as a substitute for confectioners' sugar, providing sweetness without the added calories.

Presenting Mini Powdered Sugar Donut Muffins

Elevate the plating: When presenting the mini powdered sugar donut muffins, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing presentation. Use a clean, white plate to showcase the golden-brown muffins and the snowy powdered sugar coating.
Incorporate garnishes: Add a touch of sophistication by incorporating edible flowers or mint leaves as a delicate garnish. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the presentation, elevating the overall aesthetic appeal.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the muffins to stand out. Avoid overcrowding the plate with excessive elements, allowing the muffins to take center stage and shine.
Consider geometric arrangement: Arrange the mini powdered sugar donut muffins in a visually appealing geometric pattern on the plate. This adds a modern and artistic touch to the presentation, showcasing attention to detail.
Incorporate a dusting of powdered sugar: Before plating, lightly dust the plate with a fine layer of powdered sugar to create a clean and polished base for the muffins. This subtle touch adds a hint of elegance to the overall presentation.

Storing and Freezing Mini Powdered Sugar Donut Muffins

Allow the mini powdered sugar donut muffins to cool completely on a wire rack before storing them. This will prevent them from becoming soggy or sticky.
Once cooled, place the muffins in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag. If stacking the muffins, place a piece of parchment paper or wax paper between each layer to prevent them from sticking together.
Store the muffins at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
If you want to keep the muffins fresh for a longer period, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. However, keep in mind that refrigeration may cause the muffins to become slightly denser and less fluffy.
For longer storage, you can freeze the mini powdered sugar donut muffins. Wrap each muffin individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Freeze the muffins for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, remove the desired number of muffins from the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature for about an hour. You can also reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to restore their softness and warmth.
If you want to refresh the powdered sugar coating after freezing and thawing, simply re-dip the muffins in melted butter and coat them with fresh powdered sugar.

How To Reheat Leftover Mini Powdered Sugar Donut Muffins

To reheat leftover mini powdered sugar donut muffins, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the muffins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and heat them for 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside. This method will help restore the muffins' texture and freshness, making them taste almost as good as when they were first baked.
Another option is to use a toaster oven. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and place the muffins directly on the wire rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy. This method is quick and convenient, especially if you only need to reheat a few muffins at a time.
For a faster reheating method, you can use a microwave. Place the muffins on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 10-15 seconds. If they are not warm enough, continue heating them in 5-second intervals until they reach the desired temperature. However, keep in mind that microwaving may cause the muffins to become slightly soggy, so this method should be used as a last resort.
If you want to add a touch of extra indulgence to your reheated mini powdered sugar donut muffins, consider brushing them with a little melted butter and sprinkling some fresh powdered sugar on top before serving. This will give them a fresh, bakery-style appearance and enhance their overall flavor.

Interesting Trivia About Mini Powdered Sugar Donut Muffins

The powdered sugar donut muffins recipe is a delightful treat that combines the flavors of a classic donut with the ease of a muffin. These mini muffins are perfect for serving at brunches, parties, or as a sweet snack. They are a great option for those who love the taste of donuts but prefer a lighter, less greasy option. The combination of cinnamon, sugar, and butter creates a deliciously sweet and aromatic topping that complements the moist muffin perfectly. These mini powdered sugar donut muffins are sure to be a hit with donut and muffin lovers alike.

Is Making Mini Powdered Sugar Donut Muffins at Home Cost-Effective?

This mini powdered sugar donut muffins recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, and the recipe yields a decent batch of muffins. The use of basic pantry staples like flour, sugar, and butter keeps the cost low. The addition of cinnamon and vanilla extract adds a touch of flavor without significantly increasing the cost. Overall, this recipe would likely cost around $5-7 to make, making it a budget-friendly treat for a family of four. Verdict: 8/10.

Are Mini Powdered Sugar Donut Muffins Healthy or Unhealthy?

This mini powdered sugar donut muffin recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients contributing to its less-than-ideal nutritional profile are:

Refined white whole wheat flour, which lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grain flours
Granulated sugar and confectioners' sugar, both of which are added sugars that provide empty calories
Butter, a source of saturated fat

However, the recipe does include some redeeming qualities, such as the use of whole wheat flour (albeit white whole wheat) and the relatively small portion sizes of the mini muffins.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the white whole wheat flour with regular whole wheat flour or a gluten-free alternative like almond or coconut flour for added fiber and nutrients
Reduce the amount of granulated sugar in the batter and confectioners' sugar in the topping, or substitute with natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or applesauce
Swap out half of the butter for a healthier fat source, such as coconut oil or Greek yogurt
Add in some finely grated zucchini or carrots to the batter for an extra dose of vegetables and moisture
Experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger to enhance flavor without relying on sugar
Instead of coating the entire muffin in powdered sugar, try a light dusting or drizzle for a more balanced treat

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Donut Muffin Recipe

The mini powdered sugar donut muffins recipe is a delightful treat that combines the flavors of a classic donut with the convenience of a muffin. The use of white whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and a hint of wholesomeness to the muffins. The addition of cinnamon provides a warm and comforting aroma, while the powdered sugar coating adds a sweet and indulgent touch. The recipe is simple to follow and yields delicious results that are sure to impress. These mini muffins are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack any time of the day.

Enhance Your Mini Powdered Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Vegetables: Try serving the mini powdered sugar donut muffins with a side of colorful roasted vegetables, adding a healthy and vibrant touch to your dessert spread.

Grilled Fruit Skewers: For a refreshing and light accompaniment, consider serving grilled fruit skewers alongside the mini powdered sugar donut muffins, offering a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta: Indulge in a savory and creamy chicken alfredo pasta dish to complement the sweetness of the mini powdered sugar donut muffins, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Spiced Pumpkin Soup: Warm up your taste buds with a bowl of spiced pumpkin soup as a unique and flavorful side dish to pair with the mini powdered sugar donut muffins, adding a touch of seasonal charm to your dessert spread.

Similar Recipes to Mini Powdered Sugar Donut Muffins

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: This creamy tomato basil soup is the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in. The combination of ripe tomatoes and fresh basil creates a rich and flavorful soup that will warm you up from the inside out.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: This honey garlic glazed salmon is a delicious and healthy dinner option. The sweet and savory glaze pairs perfectly with the tender and flaky salmon, creating a dish that is sure to impress.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: This mango coconut chia pudding is a refreshing and nutritious dessert option. The tropical flavors of mango and coconut combine with the creamy texture of chia seeds to create a satisfying and guilt-free treat.

Appetizers and Main Courses That Go Well with Mini Powdered Sugar Donut Muffins

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and crispy for a delicious bite-sized treat.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with a classic bruschetta. Top crispy slices of bread with a vibrant mixture of tomatoes, basil, garlic, and olive oil for a fresh and flavorful start to any meal.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Create a creamy and indulgent pasta dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and flavorful Alfredo sauce. Serve it over a bed of al dente fettuccine for a satisfying and comforting meal.

Beef Stir Fry: Whip up a quick and delicious stir fry using thinly sliced beef, colorful vegetables, and a savory sauce. The tender beef and crisp veggies come together in a flavorful and satisfying dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice.

Why trust this Mini Powdered Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe:

This recipe guarantees a delightful treat with its perfect balance of butter and sugar. The use of vanilla extract and cinnamon adds a warm and comforting flavor. The incorporation of white whole wheat flour ensures a healthier twist without compromising taste. The careful instructions and attention to detail make this recipe trustworthy and foolproof. With its delectable powdered sugar coating, these mini muffins are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Want to discuss this Mini Powdered Sugar Donut Muffins Recipe further? Head over to the Baking and Desserts section of our forum and share your thoughts, tips, and experiences with fellow baking enthusiasts!

FAQ:

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of white whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for the white whole wheat flour in this recipe. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still work well.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

You can use salted butter, but I recommend reducing the added salt in the recipe to compensate for the salt in the butter.

Can I make these muffins ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these muffins ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Can I use a regular-sized muffin tin instead of a mini muffin tin?

Yes, you can use a regular-sized muffin tin, but you will need to adjust the baking time. Start checking for doneness around 15-18 minutes.

Can I use a different topping instead of powdered sugar?

Absolutely! You can try topping the muffins with cinnamon sugar, a simple glaze, or even a chocolate ganache for a different flavor. Be creative and have fun with it!