Cinnamon Sugar Twist Doughnuts Recipe

If you have a sweet tooth and love a little twist on classic treats, the Cinnamon Sugar Twist Doughnuts Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. These golden, airy doughnut twists are crispy on the outside, pillowy soft inside, and rolled in a perfect blend of cinnamon and sugar that makes every bite pure bliss. Whether you’re serving them at brunch, a weekend treat, or simply craving something warm and comforting, this recipe promises a delightful homemade experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cinnamon Sugar Twist Doughnuts Recipe lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients that come together to create something truly special. From warming milk to fragrant cinnamon sugar, each component plays a vital role in the doughnuts’ irresistible taste and perfect texture.

• Whole milk, warmed to 110°F: Adds moisture and richness, helping the yeast activate perfectly for a fluffy dough.
• Active dry or instant yeast: The essential leavening agent to give your doughnuts that light, airy rise.
• Granulated sugar: Used both in the dough and coating, it brings sweetness and a delightful caramelization during frying.
• Large egg, room temperature: Adds structure and richness to the dough for a tender crumb.
• All-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, providing just the right amount of gluten for chewiness without toughness.
• Kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
• Unsalted butter, softened: Adds moisture and tenderness to the dough.
• Vegetable oil for frying: Neutral and stable oil that’s perfect for crisping the doughnuts evenly.
• Ground cinnamon and extra granulated sugar: The iconic finishing touch blending warmth and sweetness on the outside of each twist.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Twist Doughnuts Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Combine Wet Ingredients

Start by warming your whole milk to a cozy 110°F—this temperature is just right to wake up the yeast without killing it. Stir the yeast and sugar into the milk and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the surface is foamy and bubbly. This is your dough’s secret to rise and fluffiness. Once the yeast is active, whisk in the egg until everything is well mixed, setting the stage for a rich, tender dough.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately

While your wet ingredients get bubbly, whisk together the flour and kosher salt in a large bowl. Combining these dry elements separately ensures even seasoning and helps control the dough’s consistency during mixing.

Step 3: Combine Flour and Butter Into the Dough

Attach your dough hook and start mixing on low speed by gradually adding one-third of the flour mixture to the wet ingredients. When the dough starts forming, add another third. Then add the softened butter bit by bit, thoroughly mixing after each addition—this helps incorporate fat evenly for tender, rich dough. Finish by adding the remaining flour. Your dough will be sticky but that’s exactly how it should be.

Step 4: Knead the Dough Until Smooth

Crank up the mixer to medium speed and knead for 3 to 5 minutes. You’ll notice the dough becomes smooth and elastic, perfect for a tender bite. Resist the urge to add more flour; the slight stickiness ensures your doughnuts remain light.

Step 5: First Rise the Dough

Transfer your silky dough ball to a greased bowl, cover it with plastic or a clean towel, and let it rise at room temperature for 30 to 45 minutes until it doubles in size. This rise develops flavor and texture, so be patient—the wait is worth every minute.

Step 6: Shape the Doughnut Twists

After the dough has risen, gently deflate it on a floured surface and divide into 12 equal pieces. Cover the extras so they don’t dry out. Roll each piece into a 14-inch rope, then grab both ends and twist one hand upward and the other downward—this classic twist creates the signature shape and delightful texture of these doughnuts. Pinch the ends securely and place each twist on parchment paper, loosely covered to rest.

Step 7: Rest Before Frying

Let your formed twists rest for 8 to 10 minutes. This short second rise lets the dough relax and puff up slightly, ensuring a lighter, airier final product.

Step 8: Fry Until Golden and Perfect

Heat 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottom pot until it reaches 350°F. Carefully fry two to three doughnut twists at a time, cooking each side for about 95 seconds until golden brown and crisp. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined pan to drain excess oil, maintaining the oil temperature steady between batches for even frying.

Step 9: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While the doughnuts cool just enough to handle, mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a shallow dish. This iconic combo will give your twists their signature sweet-spicy crust.

Step 10: Toss and Serve

Roll the warm twists in the cinnamon sugar until completely coated. The warmth helps the sugar stick and intensifies the flavor, creating a beautifully fragrant, mouthwatering coating that’s hard to resist. Serve immediately for the best texture and fresh-from-the-fryer magic.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Twist Doughnuts Recipe

Garnishes

If you want to add a little something extra, a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm glaze complements the cinnamon sugar beautifully. Fresh berries and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can balance the sweetness with a touch of fruitiness and crunch.

Side Dishes

These doughnuts pair wonderfully with a steaming cup of coffee or tea, making any morning feel like a café experience. For a heartier brunch, serve alongside scrambled eggs or fresh fruit salad to balance the indulgence with freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, stack your Cinnamon Sugar Twist Doughnuts Recipe in a tower or skewer them on sticks for a party platter. You could also serve them with small ramekins of dipping sauces like chocolate ganache, caramel, or cream cheese frosting to create a DIY dipping station.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any doughnuts left (though that might be a rare event), keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to preserve their softness and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze your doughnut twists before or after frying. To freeze before frying, shape them, flash-freeze on a tray, then transfer to a sealed bag. Shake off any frost before frying later. For fried doughnuts, freeze in airtight containers with parchment separators, then thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Reheating

To revive your doughnuts, warm them gently in a 300°F oven for 5 to 8 minutes. This brings back crispness outside while keeping the inside tender and soft, almost like fresh-made.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely! This Cinnamon Sugar Twist Doughnuts Recipe works perfectly with either type of yeast. Just mix instant yeast directly with the flour and adjust the proofing time slightly if needed.

What’s the best oil for frying doughnuts?

Vegetable oil is ideal because it has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, allowing your doughnuts to fry crisp without imparting unwanted flavors or burning easily.

How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature?

Using a kitchen thermometer is your best bet—aim for 350°F. If the oil’s too cool, doughnuts soak up oil and become greasy; too hot, and they burn outside before cooking inside.

Why are my doughnuts not fluffy?

Fluffiness depends on proper yeast activation, kneading, and proofing. Make sure your milk is warm enough to activate yeast, knead to develop the gluten without adding too much flour, and allow enough time for the dough to rise fully.

Can I make these doughnuts gluten-free?

It’s tricky because the texture relies heavily on gluten development, but you can try a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum. Be prepared for a slightly different texture, and adjust liquid and rising times accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Your kitchen deserves the magic of the Cinnamon Sugar Twist Doughnuts Recipe. With simple ingredients, a bit of time, and a lot of love, you’ll create doughnuts that feel like warm hugs wrapped in cinnamon and sugar. Give it a go and watch your family and friends delight in every twist and bite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it might just become your new favorite comfort treat.

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