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Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts Simple and Tasty Treat

by on November 26, 2025

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If you’re craving a sweet treat that’s simple to make, I’ve got the perfect recipe for you: Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts! These donuts are light, fluffy, and coated in a sweet cinnamon mix that will make your mouth water. Plus, you won’t need frying oil or fancy tools. Get ready to impress friends and family with this easy and tasty recipe that fits any occasion. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get baking!

- 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for coating) - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional) - 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt - 1 large egg - 1/4 cup milk (whole or low-fat) - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating) - 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating) When measuring ingredients, be precise. Use a dry measuring cup for flour and sugar. Level off the top with a straight edge for accuracy. For sticky ingredients like yogurt and butter, use a liquid measuring cup. Pour in the milk and yogurt, then add melted butter carefully. If you need to make changes, here are some ideas: - Flour: Use whole wheat flour for a heartier donut. - Sugar: Coconut sugar works well, but it changes the color. - Greek yogurt: Substitute sour cream for a similar texture. - Milk: Almond or oat milk can be used for a dairy-free option. - Butter: Coconut oil is a great dairy-free alternative. - Nutmeg: Skip it if you prefer a simpler flavor. Feel free to mix and match these options to suit your taste! {{ingredient_image_2}} To make baked cinnamon sugar donuts, start by gathering your ingredients. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your donut pan well with cooking spray or melted butter. This step ensures the donuts come out easily after baking. In a large bowl, add the dry ingredients. Combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, if you like. Whisk these together until they blend well. This mix gives the donuts their light texture. In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients. Add 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step adds moisture and flavor to your donuts. Now, combine the wet and dry mixtures. Gently pour the wet mix into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to fold them together. Be careful not to overmix. A few lumps are okay. Next, fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full with the batter. Bake the donuts for 10-12 minutes. They are ready when they spring back when touched and a toothpick comes out clean. Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool a bit more. While they cool, mix 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. While the donuts are still warm, dip their tops into the cinnamon sugar mix. Press lightly for a nice coating. Enjoy your delightful donuts! To make the best baked cinnamon sugar donuts, follow these simple tips. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before you start mixing. This ensures even baking. Grease the donut pan well. This helps the donuts come out easily. Next, don't overmix the batter. A few lumps are fine. This keeps your donuts soft and fluffy. Lastly, bake until they spring back when touched and a toothpick comes out clean. You will need a few tools for this recipe. Here’s your list: - Donut pan - Mixing bowls - Whisk - Spatula - Piping bag or zip-lock bag - Toothpick These tools will help you create these yummy treats with ease. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure great donuts. First, don't skip greasing the donut pan. This can cause sticking. Second, measure your ingredients carefully. Too much flour or sugar can change the texture. Third, let the donuts cool slightly before coating. This helps the cinnamon sugar stick better. Finally, remember to coat them while warm. This creates a delicious, sweet crust. Pro Tips Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your egg and milk to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a more uniform batter and promotes even baking. Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts instead of fluffy ones. Check Donuts for Doneness: Every oven is different, so start checking your donuts at the lower end of the baking time. They’re ready when they spring back lightly when touched. Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store your donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them and reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy. {{image_4}} You can easily change the flavor of your donuts. Try adding different spices. For instance, cardamom or ginger can give a warm twist. You might even add a splash of almond extract for a nutty taste. Vanilla is a great base, but explore adding lemon or orange zest for a citrus kick. The classic cinnamon sugar topping is delightful, but you can get creative. Consider a chocolate glaze for a rich taste. Just melt some chocolate and dip the tops of the donuts. You can also use a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Drizzle this over the cooled donuts for added sweetness. If you need gluten-free donuts, almond flour or a gluten-free mix works well. Just make sure to adjust the liquid if needed. For dairy-free options, replace Greek yogurt with a non-dairy yogurt. Coconut yogurt is a tasty choice. Use almond or oat milk in place of regular milk to keep it dairy-free. These swaps let everyone enjoy these delicious treats! To keep your baked cinnamon sugar donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps them stay soft and tasty. You can keep them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want them to last longer, consider the fridge, but note they may get a bit dry. You can freeze these donuts for a longer shelf life. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay good for about three months. When you want to enjoy them, take them out and let them thaw at room temperature. You can also warm them in the oven for a few minutes to get them nice and cozy again. Baked cinnamon sugar donuts have a short shelf life when stored properly. At room temperature, they last about two days. In the fridge, they can last for about a week. If frozen, they can last up to three months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating! Yes, you can use different flours. Almond flour or oat flour work well. Keep in mind that the texture may change. Each flour absorbs liquid differently, so adjust liquids as needed. The donuts are done when they spring back to touch. You can also check with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, they are ready. Overbaking can make them dry, so watch closely. Yes! You can make the batter ahead. Keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake them fresh when you are ready. You can also bake them ahead and store them. These donuts are great with coffee or tea. You can add a side of fruit too. Apples or berries pair nicely. Serve with a light glaze for an extra treat. Yes, they are usually healthier. Baked donuts have less fat and fewer calories. Frying adds extra oil, which increases calories. Baked donuts still taste delicious while being lighter. In this post, I covered how to make delicious baked donuts. We discussed the right ingredients and measurements, plus helpful substitutes. I provided a step-by-step guide for mixing and baking your treats. You also learned tips for perfect results and ways to store your donuts. Lastly, I shared variations and answered common questions. Now, you have all you need to bake tasty, homemade donuts. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and toppings!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Soft and Fluffy Texture: These donuts are incredibly soft and fluffy, making them a delightful treat for breakfast or dessert.
  2. Easy to Make: This recipe comes together quickly with simple ingredients, perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
  3. Delicious Cinnamon Flavor: The warm cinnamon sugar coating adds a nostalgic and comforting flavor that everyone loves.
  4. Perfect for Sharing: With 12 servings, these donuts are great for sharing with family and friends, making any gathering more special.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for coating)

– 1 teaspoon baking powder

– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

– 1 large egg

– 1/4 cup milk (whole or low-fat)

– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

Measurement Instructions

When measuring ingredients, be precise. Use a dry measuring cup for flour and sugar. Level off the top with a straight edge for accuracy. For sticky ingredients like yogurt and butter, use a liquid measuring cup. Pour in the milk and yogurt, then add melted butter carefully.

Substitutions and Alternatives

If you need to make changes, here are some ideas:

– Flour: Use whole wheat flour for a heartier donut.

– Sugar: Coconut sugar works well, but it changes the color.

– Greek yogurt: Substitute sour cream for a similar texture.

– Milk: Almond or oat milk can be used for a dairy-free option.

– Butter: Coconut oil is a great dairy-free alternative.

– Nutmeg: Skip it if you prefer a simpler flavor.

Feel free to mix and match these options to suit your taste!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Overview

To make baked cinnamon sugar donuts, start by gathering your ingredients. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your donut pan well with cooking spray or melted butter. This step ensures the donuts come out easily after baking.

Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, add the dry ingredients. Combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, if you like. Whisk these together until they blend well. This mix gives the donuts their light texture.

Combining Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients. Add 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step adds moisture and flavor to your donuts.

Baking Process

Now, combine the wet and dry mixtures. Gently pour the wet mix into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to fold them together. Be careful not to overmix. A few lumps are okay. Next, fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full with the batter. Bake the donuts for 10-12 minutes. They are ready when they spring back when touched and a toothpick comes out clean.

Cooling and Coating

Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool a bit more. While they cool, mix 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. While the donuts are still warm, dip their tops into the cinnamon sugar mix. Press lightly for a nice coating. Enjoy your delightful donuts!

Tips & Tricks

Baking Tips for Perfect Donuts

To make the best baked cinnamon sugar donuts, follow these simple tips. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before you start mixing. This ensures even baking. Grease the donut pan well. This helps the donuts come out easily. Next, don’t overmix the batter. A few lumps are fine. This keeps your donuts soft and fluffy. Lastly, bake until they spring back when touched and a toothpick comes out clean.

Tools Needed for the Recipe

You will need a few tools for this recipe. Here’s your list:

– Donut pan

– Mixing bowls

– Whisk

– Spatula

– Piping bag or zip-lock bag

– Toothpick

These tools will help you create these yummy treats with ease.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure great donuts. First, don’t skip greasing the donut pan. This can cause sticking. Second, measure your ingredients carefully. Too much flour or sugar can change the texture. Third, let the donuts cool slightly before coating. This helps the cinnamon sugar stick better. Finally, remember to coat them while warm. This creates a delicious, sweet crust.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your egg and milk to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a more uniform batter and promotes even baking.
  2. Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts instead of fluffy ones.
  3. Check Donuts for Doneness: Every oven is different, so start checking your donuts at the lower end of the baking time. They’re ready when they spring back lightly when touched.
  4. Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store your donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them and reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.

Variations

Flavor Variations: Spices and Extracts

You can easily change the flavor of your donuts. Try adding different spices. For instance, cardamom or ginger can give a warm twist. You might even add a splash of almond extract for a nutty taste. Vanilla is a great base, but explore adding lemon or orange zest for a citrus kick.

Toppings and Glazes Options

The classic cinnamon sugar topping is delightful, but you can get creative. Consider a chocolate glaze for a rich taste. Just melt some chocolate and dip the tops of the donuts. You can also use a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Drizzle this over the cooled donuts for added sweetness.

Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Alternatives

If you need gluten-free donuts, almond flour or a gluten-free mix works well. Just make sure to adjust the liquid if needed. For dairy-free options, replace Greek yogurt with a non-dairy yogurt. Coconut yogurt is a tasty choice. Use almond or oat milk in place of regular milk to keep it dairy-free. These swaps let everyone enjoy these delicious treats!

Storage Info

How to Store Baked Donuts

To keep your baked cinnamon sugar donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps them stay soft and tasty. You can keep them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want them to last longer, consider the fridge, but note they may get a bit dry.

Freezing and Thawing Instructions

You can freeze these donuts for a longer shelf life. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay good for about three months. When you want to enjoy them, take them out and let them thaw at room temperature. You can also warm them in the oven for a few minutes to get them nice and cozy again.

Shelf Life

Baked cinnamon sugar donuts have a short shelf life when stored properly. At room temperature, they last about two days. In the fridge, they can last for about a week. If frozen, they can last up to three months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use different flours. Almond flour or oat flour work well. Keep in mind that the texture may change. Each flour absorbs liquid differently, so adjust liquids as needed.

How do I know when the donuts are done?

The donuts are done when they spring back to touch. You can also check with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, they are ready. Overbaking can make them dry, so watch closely.

Can I make these donuts ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the batter ahead. Keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake them fresh when you are ready. You can also bake them ahead and store them.

What can I serve with baked cinnamon sugar donuts?

These donuts are great with coffee or tea. You can add a side of fruit too. Apples or berries pair nicely. Serve with a light glaze for an extra treat.

Are baked donuts healthier than fried donuts?

Yes, they are usually healthier. Baked donuts have less fat and fewer calories. Frying adds extra oil, which increases calories. Baked donuts still taste delicious while being lighter.

In this post, I covered how to make delicious baked donuts. We discussed the right ingredients and measurements, plus helpful substitutes. I provided a step-by-step guide for mixing and baking your treats. You also learned tips for perfect results and ways to store your donuts. Lastly, I shared variations and answered common questions. Now, you have all you need to bake tasty, homemade donuts. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and topping

- 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for coating) - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional) - 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt - 1 large egg - 1/4 cup milk (whole or low-fat) - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating) - 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating) When measuring ingredients, be precise. Use a dry measuring cup for flour and sugar. Level off the top with a straight edge for accuracy. For sticky ingredients like yogurt and butter, use a liquid measuring cup. Pour in the milk and yogurt, then add melted butter carefully. If you need to make changes, here are some ideas: - Flour: Use whole wheat flour for a heartier donut. - Sugar: Coconut sugar works well, but it changes the color. - Greek yogurt: Substitute sour cream for a similar texture. - Milk: Almond or oat milk can be used for a dairy-free option. - Butter: Coconut oil is a great dairy-free alternative. - Nutmeg: Skip it if you prefer a simpler flavor. Feel free to mix and match these options to suit your taste! {{ingredient_image_2}} To make baked cinnamon sugar donuts, start by gathering your ingredients. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your donut pan well with cooking spray or melted butter. This step ensures the donuts come out easily after baking. In a large bowl, add the dry ingredients. Combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, if you like. Whisk these together until they blend well. This mix gives the donuts their light texture. In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients. Add 1/2 cup of plain Greek yogurt, 1 large egg, 1/4 cup of milk, 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step adds moisture and flavor to your donuts. Now, combine the wet and dry mixtures. Gently pour the wet mix into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to fold them together. Be careful not to overmix. A few lumps are okay. Next, fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full with the batter. Bake the donuts for 10-12 minutes. They are ready when they spring back when touched and a toothpick comes out clean. Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool a bit more. While they cool, mix 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. While the donuts are still warm, dip their tops into the cinnamon sugar mix. Press lightly for a nice coating. Enjoy your delightful donuts! To make the best baked cinnamon sugar donuts, follow these simple tips. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) before you start mixing. This ensures even baking. Grease the donut pan well. This helps the donuts come out easily. Next, don't overmix the batter. A few lumps are fine. This keeps your donuts soft and fluffy. Lastly, bake until they spring back when touched and a toothpick comes out clean. You will need a few tools for this recipe. Here’s your list: - Donut pan - Mixing bowls - Whisk - Spatula - Piping bag or zip-lock bag - Toothpick These tools will help you create these yummy treats with ease. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure great donuts. First, don't skip greasing the donut pan. This can cause sticking. Second, measure your ingredients carefully. Too much flour or sugar can change the texture. Third, let the donuts cool slightly before coating. This helps the cinnamon sugar stick better. Finally, remember to coat them while warm. This creates a delicious, sweet crust. Pro Tips Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your egg and milk to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a more uniform batter and promotes even baking. Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts instead of fluffy ones. Check Donuts for Doneness: Every oven is different, so start checking your donuts at the lower end of the baking time. They’re ready when they spring back lightly when touched. Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store your donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them and reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy. {{image_4}} You can easily change the flavor of your donuts. Try adding different spices. For instance, cardamom or ginger can give a warm twist. You might even add a splash of almond extract for a nutty taste. Vanilla is a great base, but explore adding lemon or orange zest for a citrus kick. The classic cinnamon sugar topping is delightful, but you can get creative. Consider a chocolate glaze for a rich taste. Just melt some chocolate and dip the tops of the donuts. You can also use a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Drizzle this over the cooled donuts for added sweetness. If you need gluten-free donuts, almond flour or a gluten-free mix works well. Just make sure to adjust the liquid if needed. For dairy-free options, replace Greek yogurt with a non-dairy yogurt. Coconut yogurt is a tasty choice. Use almond or oat milk in place of regular milk to keep it dairy-free. These swaps let everyone enjoy these delicious treats! To keep your baked cinnamon sugar donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps them stay soft and tasty. You can keep them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want them to last longer, consider the fridge, but note they may get a bit dry. You can freeze these donuts for a longer shelf life. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay good for about three months. When you want to enjoy them, take them out and let them thaw at room temperature. You can also warm them in the oven for a few minutes to get them nice and cozy again. Baked cinnamon sugar donuts have a short shelf life when stored properly. At room temperature, they last about two days. In the fridge, they can last for about a week. If frozen, they can last up to three months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating! Yes, you can use different flours. Almond flour or oat flour work well. Keep in mind that the texture may change. Each flour absorbs liquid differently, so adjust liquids as needed. The donuts are done when they spring back to touch. You can also check with a toothpick. If it comes out clean, they are ready. Overbaking can make them dry, so watch closely. Yes! You can make the batter ahead. Keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake them fresh when you are ready. You can also bake them ahead and store them. These donuts are great with coffee or tea. You can add a side of fruit too. Apples or berries pair nicely. Serve with a light glaze for an extra treat. Yes, they are usually healthier. Baked donuts have less fat and fewer calories. Frying adds extra oil, which increases calories. Baked donuts still taste delicious while being lighter. In this post, I covered how to make delicious baked donuts. We discussed the right ingredients and measurements, plus helpful substitutes. I provided a step-by-step guide for mixing and baking your treats. You also learned tips for perfect results and ways to store your donuts. Lastly, I shared variations and answered common questions. Now, you have all you need to bake tasty, homemade donuts. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and toppings!

Deliciously Soft Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

These donuts are soft, fluffy, and coated in a delightful cinnamon sugar mixture.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for coating)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 0.25 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for a hint of warmth)
  • 0.5 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 large egg
  • 0.25 cup milk (whole or low-fat)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 0.25 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and generously grease a donut pan with cooking spray or melted butter.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and optional nutmeg. Whisk together until well combined.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, large egg, milk, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • Gently pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and fold them together until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  • Transfer the donut batter into a piping bag or a plastic zip-lock bag and fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full.
  • Place the filled donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes until the donuts spring back lightly to the touch.
  • While the donuts are baking, mix together the remaining 1/4 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon in a small bowl for coating.
  • Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly further.
  • While the donuts are still warm, dip the tops of each donut into the cinnamon sugar mixture, pressing lightly for an even coating.
  • Present the warm cinnamon sugar donuts on a lovely platter and enjoy with friends and family!

Notes

Consider garnishing the plate with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few fresh apple slices for a charming touch that pairs well with the donuts!
Keyword baked, cinnamon sugar, donuts

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