Name: Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts for a Cozy Breakfast Treat
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Warm Milk (110°F, activates yeast); 2 teaspoons Active Dry Yeast (for rising); 1 large Egg (adds richness and structure); 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted and cooled); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (for flavor enhancement); 3-3.5 cups All-Purpose Flour (adjust for dough consistency); ⅔ cup Granulated Sugar (for sweetness); ¾ teaspoon Fine Sea Salt (balances flavor); ½ teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (for spice); ½ cup Granulated Sugar (for coating); 3 tablespoons Light Brown Sugar (packed, for added flavor); 1.5 tablespoons Ground Cinnamon (enhances coating flavor)

As the golden sunrise spills through my kitchen window, the tantalizing aroma of freshly fried donuts whisks me away to a cozy café. These Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts are not just your average morning treat; they’re a warm embrace of indulgence that turns your everyday breakfast into a delightful event. With their light, fluffy texture and playful twists, making this homemade doughnut recipe is a joyful adventure that’s surprisingly easy to undertake. Plus, they’re quick to prepare and guaranteed to impress! Whether you’re warming up for a family brunch or simply treating yourself, these donuts will be a cherished addition to your kitchen repertoire. Are you ready to discover the simple joy of creating these sweet, crunchy delights?

Why Are These Donuts So Irresistible?

Fuzzy Warmth: The delightful smell of cinnamon sugar wafting through your kitchen creates an irresistible atmosphere of comfort and coziness.

Easy to Make: You don’t need to be a professional chef to prepare these donuts; they’re beginner-friendly and require simple ingredients!

Customizable Options: Want to add a twist? Experiment with different toppings or fillings like jam or cream cheese, just like you can with our Refreshing Cucumber Twist!

Perfect for Sharing: These donuts are crowd-pleasers; they’ll impress family and friends during brunch gatherings or casual get-togethers.

Fresh and Fluffy: Enjoy the satisfaction of biting into a light, fluffy donut, expertly coated in a crunchy cinnamon-sugar mix that’s simply heavenly.

Quick Treat: Ready in under two hours, these donuts turn your simple breakfast into a festive occasion without taking up your entire morning!

Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donut Ingredients

For the Dough

Warm Milk (110°F) – Activates the yeast for fluffy cinnamon sugar twist donuts; make sure the temperature is just right!
Active Dry Yeast – Vital for the dough to rise, creating that delightful texture we all love.
Large Egg – Adds richness and structure, giving the donuts a beautiful interior.
Unsalted Butter (melted and cooled) – Introduces moisture and enhances flavor, helping create a luscious bite.
Vanilla Extract – Boosts the overall flavor; consider almond extract if you’re feeling adventurous!
All-Purpose Flour (3-3.5 cups) – Provides the essential structure; adjust depending on dough consistency for best results.
Granulated Sugar (⅔ cup) – Sweetens the dough to perfection, ensuring every bite is delectable.
Fine Sea Salt (¾ teaspoon) – Balances the sweetness and elevates the flavor profile.
Ground Cinnamon (½ teaspoon) – Introduces warmth and spice into the dough itself.

For the Coating

Granulated Sugar – Gives donuts their delightful sweet exterior after frying.
Light Brown Sugar (packed, 3 tablespoons) – Adds a hint of caramel flavor to the crunchy coating.
Ground Cinnamon (1.5 tablespoons) – Enhance the flavor of the coating, creating that irresistible classic taste.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts

Step 1: Activate Yeast
Begin by stirring together warm milk (110°F) and active dry yeast in a small bowl. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly, signaling that your yeast is alive and ready to work its magic in your Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, melted butter (cooled), and vanilla extract until fully combined. This rich mixture will add depth to the flavor of your donuts, making them not only fluffy but also delightfully indulgent.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a stand mixer, combine 3 cups of all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, fine sea salt, and ground cinnamon. Pour the frothy yeast mixture into the wet ingredients, followed by transferring it to the dry ingredients. Mix on low speed until a dough forms, ensuring everything is well incorporated as you prepare for your scrumptious donut adventure.

Step 4: Knead Dough
Increase the mixer speed to medium-low and knead the dough for about 5 minutes. The dough should become smooth and slightly sticky, ready to rise. If needed, gradually add extra flour until the dough pulls away from the bowl’s sides but remains soft and pliable.

Step 5: First Rise
Place your kneaded dough in a greased bowl, turning it once to coat. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. This step encourages those fluffy layers that make your Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts truly irresistible.

Step 6: Second Rise
After an hour, gently punch down the dough to release excess air. Transfer it back to a floured surface and knead it slightly, then allow it to rise again, covered, for another hour. This second rise will ensure a fluffy texture by creating more air pockets in the donuts.

Step 7: Shape Donuts
Once risen, cut the dough into 16 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope shape approximately 12 inches long, then twist them into a spiral and pinch the ends firmly together to secure the shape. This fun process will result in charming twists that are perfect for frying.

Step 8: Rest Twists
Arrange the twisted donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover them with a towel, and let them rest for about 30 minutes. This resting period allows the donuts to puff up slightly before they transform into golden delights in the fryer.

Step 9: Fry Donuts
Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 325°F, ensuring you have enough oil to submerge the donuts. Carefully fry each donut for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they achieve a gorgeous golden-brown color. Monitor them closely to avoid overcooking.

Step 10: Coat
Once fried, transfer the warm donuts to a plate lined with paper towels briefly to catch excess oil. Then, toss each in a cinnamon-sugar mixture while still warm to create that signature, sweet crust. Set them on a wire rack to let cool slightly and enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts

Yeast Activator: Ensure your warm milk is precisely at 110°F; too hot will kill the yeast, preventing your donuts from rising.
Kneading Technique: Knead your dough until smooth and slightly sticky; over-kneading can lead to tough donuts. Use a stand mixer for the best results!
Shaping Precision: Pinch the ends of your twisted donuts securely to avoid unravelling during frying. This keeps them perfectly shaped and delicious!
Fresh is Best: Enjoy your Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts right after frying for maximum fluffiness. Refrain from freezing to maintain that delightful texture.
Avoid Overcrowding: Fry a few donuts at a time in hot oil; overcrowding can lower the temperature, resulting in greasy donuts. Keep the frying temperature consistent for golden perfection!

What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts

Indulging in these delightful donuts opens up a world of possibilities for creating the perfect breakfast spread that tantalizes the senses.

Rich Coffee: The bold flavor of freshly brewed coffee perfectly complements the sweetness of the donuts, enhancing the overall breakfast experience.
Creamy Hot Chocolate: A comforting choice, hot chocolate with a hint of vanilla brings a joyful sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon-sugar coating.
Fresh Fruits: Brightly colored berries or slices of citrus add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors, balancing out the indulgence of the donuts.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds an extra layer of creaminess, making each bite a little slice of heaven.
Maple Syrup: Drizzling warm maple syrup over these donuts elevates them to a new level of sweetness, adding a rich, caramelized flavor that’s absolutely heavenly.
Fruit Compote: A fruity topping like strawberry or peach compote offers a tangy burst that beautifully contrasts the sweet cinnamon notes, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkling some crunchy granola alongside your donuts adds texture and heartiness to your breakfast, making it feel more complete and satisfying.

Explore these delightful pairings and turn your homemade cinnamon sugar twist donuts into a breakfast experience everyone will remember!

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by completing the first rise and then refrigerating it in a greased bowl covered with plastic wrap. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavor as the dough slowly develops overnight. When you’re ready to make the donuts, shape and let them undergo the second rise for about 30 minutes before frying. Simply follow through with frying and coating in cinnamon-sugar as usual. Enjoy the delightful taste of homemade donuts, effortlessly prepared to curb those cravings!

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts

Room Temperature: Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the donuts for up to 4 days, but this may alter their texture slightly.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncoated donuts for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag before freezing.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for restored fluffiness.

Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize these donuts to suit your tastes!

Gluten-Free: Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend to substitute for all-purpose flour, ensuring everyone can enjoy the deliciousness.
Sweetened with Honey: Swap out granulated sugar in the dough for honey, adding a warm touch of natural sweetness that complements the cinnamon.
Fruity Twist: Incorporate a handful of finely chopped apples or berries into the dough for a pop of fruity flavor and moisture in every bite. The chewy bits of fruit make each donut a delightful surprise!
Spiced Up: Enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of cardamom or nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar coating for a unique, warm aroma that dances in the air as you fry.
Chocolate Drizzle: After rolling the donuts in cinnamon sugar, melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over the top for an indulgent twist that will satisfy every chocolate lover’s craving. Just imagine the glossy finish!
Filled Delights: Create filled donuts by injecting your favorite jam or chocolate ganache into the center of each donut before coating them. This adds an exciting surprise inside that’ll have everyone coming back for more.
Nutty Coating: Roll the warm donuts in crushed nuts, such as pecans or almonds, along with the cinnamon-sugar for a delightful crunch and rich flavor contrast that brightens your morning.
Spicy Cinnamon: For a little heat, blend some cayenne pepper into the cinnamon sugar coating. It’s an adventurous choice that takes the sweet-spicy combo to another level!

With these ideas, your Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts will never get dull! For more inspirations, check out our Classic Churros with a Twist on how to create fun variations.

Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts Recipe FAQs

What type of milk should I use for these donuts?
You should use warm milk heated to about 110°F to properly activate the yeast. This temperature is essential because if the milk is too hot, it can kill the yeast, preventing the donuts from rising. Always use a kitchen thermometer to be precise!

How should I store leftover Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts?
Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness. If you find that they’re not going to be eaten within that timeframe, consider refrigerating them, but keep in mind that cold storage might alter their delightful texture.

Can I freeze these donuts?
Absolutely! To freeze your Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.

What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?
If your dough hasn’t risen, it could be due to inactive yeast. Make sure your yeast is fresh and the water or milk isn’t too hot. If you suspect it’s not activating, you can perform a quick “yeast test” by adding yeast to warm water with a little sugar and waiting 5-10 minutes for it to bubble; this ensures it’s good to use.

Are these donuts suitable for people with allergies?
These Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts contain common allergens like eggs and wheat (gluten). If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can experiment with egg substitutes like flaxseed meal or applesauce and use gluten-free flour; keep in mind, results may vary. Always check allergen information for all ingredients you use!