New Hampshire Grilled Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Introduction

This irresistible recipe for Grilled Cinnamon Sugar Donuts combines crispy golden edges, fluffy interiors, and warm spice — all made effortlessly on the Arteflame grill. Whether you're cooking breakfast for a crowd or creating a delicious dessert outdoors, this treat is quick, flavorful, and perfect for showcasing the magic of the Arteflame griddle cooktop. No pots, no pans — just direct contact with hot steel for caramelized perfection.

Ingredients

• 1 dozen plain store-bought donuts (cake or yeast—your choice)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• Optional: powdered sugar or caramel sauce for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour a bit of vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the Arteflame grill.
2. Stack quality firewood over the soaked napkins.
3. Light the napkins and let the grill heat up for about 20 minutes until the flat top hits optimal grilling temperature and the center grate gets scorching hot.

Step 2: Prepare cinnamon sugar coating

1. In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon thoroughly.
2. Set aside for coating after grilling.

Step 3: Butter and grill the donuts

1. Brush both sides of each donut with melted butter. Butter enhances the flavor and helps create that even golden crisp.
2. Place donuts on the flat cooktop griddle, closer to the center ring for crispier edges. Grill for about 1–2 minutes per side, or until they are golden and slightly caramelized.
3. Flip using tongs and grill the other side evenly.

Step 4: Coat in cinnamon sugar

1. Remove the grilled donuts from the flat top and immediately dip each side in the cinnamon sugar mixture to ensure it sticks well.

Step 5: Serve warm

1. Serve donuts hot off the grill, optionally topped with powdered sugar or drizzled with caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Tips

• Use butter, not oil, for grilling — it creates a better crispy texture and adds rich flavor.
• Grill the donuts closer to the center for more caramelization and crispiness.
• You can warm your sugar mixture slightly on the outer edge of the griddle if you want it to easily coat the donuts.
• Use various donut types (cake vs. yeast) to explore texture differences.
• This recipe is ideal for breakfast cookouts or sweet endings to BBQ nights.

Variations

1. Maple Glazed Donuts: Swap cinnamon sugar for a quick maple glaze using maple syrup and powdered sugar. Grill as usual.
2. Pumpkin Spice Donuts: Add pumpkin spice mix to the cinnamon sugar blend for a seasonal touch.
3. Cocoa Sugar Donuts: Mix 2 tbsp cocoa powder into the cinnamon sugar to give your donuts a chocolatey twist.
4. Lemon Sugar Donuts: Zest one lemon into the sugar mix for a citrus punch.
5. Bourbon Caramel Crunch: Grill cake donuts until slightly charred, then drizzle with bourbon caramel and crush pecans over the top.

Best pairings

• Hot apple cider or spiced chai
• Fresh berries or grilled peaches on the side
• Vanilla ice cream for a donut sundae
• Smoky bacon straight off the Arteflame griddle

Conclusion

Grilled Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are simple, indulgent, and packed with flavor. With the Arteflame grill, you can turn a few store-bought ingredients into something truly special — crispy on the outside, soft inside, and kissed by the fire. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or sweet snacks made outdoors in true New Hampshire style!