Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts Recipe
Introduction
Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts are a delightful treat that combines a light, fluffy dough with a sweet and spicy cinnamon sugar coating. Perfect for breakfast or a snack, these homemade donuts are easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 1/2 cup warm water
- Oil for frying
- Additional cinnamon sugar mix for coating (1/4 cup sugar + 1 tablespoon cinnamon)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water and let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and cinnamon. Add the yeast mixture and stir until a soft dough forms.
- Step 3: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Step 4: Roll the dough into a log and cut it into equal pieces. Twist each piece into a spiral shape.
- Step 5: Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the twisted dough pieces in batches for 2–3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
- Step 6: Remove the donuts with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. While still warm, toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat evenly.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg to the dough.
- Use a candy thermometer to maintain the oil temperature for perfect frying results.
- Try glazing the twists with a simple powdered sugar glaze instead of cinnamon sugar for a different twist.
Storage
Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes to regain crispiness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the twists at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes until golden brown, but frying gives them a more traditional texture and flavor.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Absolutely. After the first rise, punch down the dough, wrap it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature and rise again before shaping and frying.
PrintCinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts Recipe
Delight in these homemade Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts, featuring a soft, fluffy dough twisted to perfection, fried until golden, and generously coated with a sweet cinnamon sugar blend. This classic treat combines warm spices with a crispy exterior and tender interior, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 donuts 1x
- Category: Dessert, Snack, Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm milk (110°F/43°C)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
For Frying
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
- Prepare the yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in the warm milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sugar, salt, egg, melted butter, and yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let dough rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
- Shape the twists: Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Cut the dough into strips and twist each strip into the desired shape.
- Heat the oil: In a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain the temperature.
- Fry the donuts: Carefully place the twisted dough pieces into the hot oil. Fry them, turning occasionally, for about 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through. Do not overcrowd the pot.
- Drain excess oil: Remove the donuts with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Coat with cinnamon sugar: While the donuts are still warm, toss them in a bowl filled with cinnamon sugar to ensure even coating.
- Serve warm: Enjoy the Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts fresh and warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Ensure the oil temperature is steady at 350°F to avoid greasy or undercooked donuts.
- You can adjust the cinnamon to sugar ratio according to your preference for sweetness or spice.
- These donuts are best eaten the same day but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Leftover dough can be refrigerated and used within 24 hours.
Keywords: cinnamon sugar donuts, twisted donuts, fried donuts, homemade donuts, sweet snacks
