If you have a soft spot for homemade delights that bring warmth and a little bit of magic to your kitchen, then the Cinnamon Sugar Twist Doughnuts Recipe is your next must-try. These doughnuts combine the irresistible sweetness of cinnamon sugar with a light, fluffy dough that is perfectly twisted for that classic, eye-catching look. They’re fried to golden perfection and coated in a sparkling blend of cinnamon and sugar that you want to dive into immediately. Whether you’re serving these for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy afternoon treat, they never fail to impress and satisfy with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is the secret to making these delectable twists unforgettable. Each item plays a vital role—from enriching the dough’s texture and flavor to achieving that perfect golden crunch on the outside.
- Whole milk, 1 ½ cups, warmed to 110°F: This nourishes the yeast and adds richness for a tender dough.
- Active dry or instant yeast, 1 Tablespoon: Essential for making the dough rise light and fluffy.
- Granulated sugar, 3 Tablespoons: Feeds the yeast and begins the subtle sweetness in the dough.
- Large egg, room temperature: Binds ingredients together ensuring the dough is tender yet structured.
- All-purpose flour, 4 cups: The foundation of the dough providing substance and chewiness.
- Kosher salt, 2 teaspoons: Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Unsalted butter, 6 Tablespoons, softened: Adds richness and moisture to the dough.
- Vegetable oil, for frying: The perfect frying medium for golden, crisp exteriors.
- Granulated sugar, ½ cup, for coating: Combines with cinnamon for that irresistible outer layer.
- Ground cinnamon, 1 ½ teaspoons: Brings warm spice and classic flavor.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Twist Doughnuts Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by warming the milk to about 110°F—nice and cozy but not hot. Mix in your yeast and sugar, then let it sit for 5 minutes until it’s foamy. This signals the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic. Whisk in the egg next, fully incorporating it to create a smooth mixture that will be the base of your dough.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
While your yeast mixture is activating, whisk together the all-purpose flour and kosher salt in a large bowl. This combination gives structure to your dough while balancing out the sweetness and enhancing the flavor palette.
Step 3: Incorporate Flour and Butter
Using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, add the flour mixture gradually in thirds to the yeast mixture on low speed. Once about two-thirds of the flour is combined, add the softened butter one tablespoon at a time, ensuring it blends evenly. The dough will be sticky at this stage, which is exactly right—resist the urge to add more flour. Finish with the last portion of flour.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Turn your mixer to medium speed and knead the dough for about 3 to 5 minutes until it’s smooth, elastic, and slightly sticky. It should pull away from the bowl easily when scraped but still stick slightly to your hands. This texture is exactly what makes your doughnuts tender inside with a slight chew.
Step 5: First Rise
Transfer the dough into a large greased bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Let it rest at room temperature for about 30 to 45 minutes until it doubles in size. This resting time is crucial for that fluffy, airy texture we all love.
Step 6: Shape the Doughnuts
Gently deflate the dough on a lightly floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Work with one piece at a time by rolling each into a 14-inch rope. Twist the rope by rolling one hand upward and the other downward, then pinch the ends together to secure. This twisting technique forms the classic shape and texture that makes these doughnuts so special.
Step 7: Second Rise
Place your twisted doughnuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover loosely with a towel. Let them rest for 8 to 10 minutes, allowing the dough to relax and puff up slightly before frying.
Step 8: Fry the Doughnuts
Heat 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F, precisely monitored for perfect frying. Fry 2-3 doughnuts at a time for about 95 seconds per side or until golden brown. Drain excess oil on paper towels, maintaining consistent oil temperature throughout to avoid greasiness or burning.
Step 9: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar and Coat
While the twists cool slightly, mix the granulated sugar with cinnamon in a shallow dish. Toss each warm doughnut twist generously in the cinnamon sugar until coated. This final touch creates that delicious, sweet-spicy crust that defines the Cinnamon Sugar Twist Doughnuts Recipe.
How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Twist Doughnuts Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant hint of sweetness and mimics fresh snow, perfect for colder months. Freshly ground cinnamon sprinkled on top amplifies the warm spice aroma that’s irresistible. For a playful crunch, try crushed nuts or toasted coconut flakes.
Side Dishes
Pair these doughnuts with a cup of strong coffee or a rich chai latte to complement the cinnamon’s warmth. Fresh fruit salad or a small bowl of mixed berries balances the richness of the doughnuts. For a more indulgent brunch, sides of creamy yogurt or whipped cream work beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the twists on a rustic wooden board lined with parchment for a cozy, inviting feel. Stack them high in a glass cake dome to keep warmth and an air of anticipation. For parties, place individual twists in cupcake liners or mini paper bags tied with twine for a charming homemade gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Cinnamon Sugar Twist Doughnuts Recipe fresh by placing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay best within 1 to 2 days, preserving that tender interior and crispy exterior. Avoid refrigeration as it can dry out the doughnuts quickly.
Freezing
To enjoy these twists later, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a zipped freezer bag. This prevents sticking and helps maintain their shape. Frozen doughnuts can be kept up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
Reheat by placing frozen or room-temp twists in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 to 7 minutes or until warm and slightly crisp. Avoid microwaving to preserve the fried crust. A toaster oven works beautifully for single servings to retain texture.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Absolutely! Instant yeast works just as well and doesn’t require proofing, so you can add it directly to the flour. Either form will give you that perfect rise needed for the doughnuts in this Cinnamon Sugar Twist Doughnuts Recipe.
What if I don’t have a stand mixer?
No worries at all! You can mix and knead the dough by hand. It might take a bit more elbow grease, but the dough’s sticky texture will guide you. Just be sure to knead long enough until it’s smooth and elastic.
Can I bake these doughnuts instead of frying?
Baking is an option, though frying gives that signature crisp crust and tender center. If you bake, the twists might be less crispy but still delicious—bake at 375°F for about 15 to 18 minutes until golden.
Why is the dough sticky? Should I add more flour?
Sticky dough is exactly what you want here to keep your doughnuts light and airy inside. Adding too much flour can make them dense. Trust the recipe’s texture and use a floured surface to handle the dough as needed.
How do I tell when the oil is the right temperature for frying?
A kitchen thermometer is your best friend for accurate frying. The ideal temperature is 350°F. If it’s too low, doughnuts absorb oil and get greasy; too hot, and they burn on the outside before cooking through inside.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about making Cinnamon Sugar Twist Doughnuts Recipe from scratch—it fills your home with cozy aromas and offers a comforting treat like no other. Whether you share them over morning coffee or as a surprise snack, these doughnuts bring joy with every twist and bite. Give this recipe a go, and I promise it will become a cherished favorite in your kitchen too!
Print
Cinnamon Sugar Twist Doughnuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Deliciously soft and fluffy homemade Cinnamon Sugar Twist Doughnuts, fried to golden perfection and coated with a fragrant cinnamon sugar blend. This recipe uses a yeasted dough that is twisted into beautiful shapes, providing a fun and impressive treat perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 ½ cups whole milk, warmed to 110°F
- 1 Tablespoon active dry yeast or instant yeast
- 3 Tablespoons granulated sugar (38g)
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (520g)
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter (84g), softened, room temperature
Frying & Coating
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- ½ cup granulated sugar (100g)
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until foamy, then whisk in the egg until fully incorporated, ensuring the yeast is properly activated for a good rise.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour and kosher salt to evenly distribute the salt and prepare for mixing into the wet ingredients.
- Incorporate Flour and Butter: Attach the dough hook to your stand mixer. With the mixer on low, gradually add one-third of the flour mixture. When the dough starts coming together, add another third. Next, add the softened butter one tablespoon at a time, mixing well after each addition; the dough will be sticky at this point. Scrape down the bowl as needed. Finally, add the remaining flour mixture and continue mixing.
- Knead the Dough: Once the dough forms, increase the mixer speed to medium and knead for 3-5 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and soft. It may still stick slightly to the sides but should pull away easily. Avoid adding extra flour to maintain softness.
- First Rise: Transfer the dough to a large greased bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel, and let it rise at room temperature for 30-45 minutes until it has doubled in size.
- Shape the Doughnuts: Gently deflate the risen dough and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide it into 12 equal pieces and loosely cover them with a towel. Take one piece at a time and roll it into a 14-inch rope. To twist, hold both ends and roll one hand upward while the other rolls downward, creating a natural braid. Pinch the ends to seal and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with remaining pieces.
- Second Rise: Allow the shaped doughnut twists to rest for 8-10 minutes at room temperature while you prepare the oil for frying.
- Fry the Doughnuts: Heat 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (use a kitchen thermometer for precision). Fry two to three twists at a time, cooking each side for approximately 95 seconds or until golden brown. Transfer to a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain excess oil. Adjust heat between batches as needed to maintain temperature.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: While the doughnuts drain and slightly cool, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a shallow dish.
- Coat and Serve: Toss the warm doughnut twists in the cinnamon sugar mixture until well coated. Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use a kitchen thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for perfect frying results.
- Do not add additional flour during kneading; the dough should remain slightly sticky for optimal texture.
- Letting the twists rest before frying helps them retain shape and result in a light, airy inside.
- Fry doughnuts in small batches to prevent the oil temperature from dropping too low.
- Serve immediately after coating for the best taste and freshness.
