Easy Cinnamon Twisted Donuts Recipe

Craving a sweet, crispy, and fluffy treat? This Cinnamon Twisted Donuts recipe delivers perfectly golden donuts with a warm cinnamon-sugar coating. Simple to make and beginner-friendly, these homemade donuts are ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack. Follow this step-by-step guide for delicious results every time.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• ½ cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)

For Frying

• Vegetable oil (enough for deep frying)

Optional Glaze (Alternative to Cinnamon-Sugar)

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a small bowl, mix warm milk and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture, softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients.
4. Knead by hand for 8-10 minutes or use a stand mixer with a dough hook until the dough is smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Donuts

1. Gently punch down the risen dough to release air.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a ¼-inch thick rectangle.
3. Cut the dough into strips (1 inch wide, 6-7 inches long) using a knife or pizza cutter.
4. Take two strips, gently twist them together, and pinch the ends to seal.
5. Place twisted donuts on a parchment-lined tray, cover, and let rise for 30-45 minutes.

Step 3: Fry the Donuts

1. Heat 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
2. Fry 2-3 donuts at a time, cooking for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.
3. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Add Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

1. While donuts are warm, brush lightly with melted butter.
2. In a shallow bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon.
3. Roll or toss each donut in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.

Optional Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
2. Drizzle over cooled donuts or dip them for a glossy finish.

Tips for Success

• Check Yeast Freshness: Ensure your yeast is active by confirming it foams during the initial step.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep oil at 350°F for even frying.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dough the night before, cover, and refrigerate after the first rise. Shape and fry the next day.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cinnamon twisted donuts warm with coffee, hot chocolate, or milk. They’re perfect for brunches, parties, or a fun family baking project.

Storage

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unfrosted donuts for up to 1 month. Thaw and coat before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Donut, Approximate)

• Calories: 220
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 4g

Enjoy these irresistible homemade cinnamon twisted donuts! Perfectly crispy, fluffy, and coated in sweet cinnamon goodness, they’re sure to be a hit.