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Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts

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Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts are soft, fluffy, golden-fried donuts twisted into fun shapes and coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar mix. A perfect homemade treat that’s crunchy on the outside, tender on the inside, and full of warm, cozy flavor.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 10–12 donuts
  • Category: Breakfast, Dessert
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup whole milk (warm)
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • Oil for deep frying (vegetable or canola)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
  • 2 tbsp melted butter (optional, for coating)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit until foamy (about 5–10 minutes).
  2. Add egg, vanilla, and softened butter. Stir to combine.
  3. Gradually add flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
  6. Roll out the dough into a large rectangle and cut into strips.
  7. Twist two strips together and pinch the ends to seal. Repeat with all strips.
  8. Let shaped donuts rise again for about 30 minutes.
  9. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or pot.
  10. Fry donuts in batches for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and puffed.
  11. Drain on paper towels.
  12. While warm, brush with melted butter (if using) and roll in cinnamon sugar to coat.

Notes

  • For a variation, stuff strips with Nutella or cream cheese before twisting.
  • Drizzle with glaze or dip in chocolate for a richer treat.
  • Mini versions make great bite-sized snacks.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes.
  • Can be baked at 375°F for 12–15 minutes instead of frying.
  • Use neutral oil with a high smoke point like canola or vegetable oil.
  • Freeze before coating; reheat and sugar-coat before serving.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://elladishes.com/cinnamon-sugar-twist-donuts/