Making cinnamon sugar donuts is a straightforward process that involves just a few simple steps. Follow these instructions to achieve donut perfection:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grease a donut pan to ensure your donuts come out easily.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, and melted butter (or coconut oil). Ensure the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing gently until they are just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to denser donuts.
5. Fill the Donut Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each mold about 2/3 full. This ensures the donuts have enough room to rise without spilling over.
6. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The donuts should be golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed.
7. Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating: While the donuts are baking, mix 1/4 cup of sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. This will be used to coat the donuts once they’re baked.
8. Coat the Donuts: Once the donuts are cool enough to handle, gently dip each one into the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Serve warm or at room temperature.