🍩 Cinnamon Sugar Donuts – Warm, Fluffy & Irresistibly Sweet
There’s something utterly nostalgic about biting into a warm, homemade cinnamon sugar donut. These donuts are soft, fluffy on the inside, with a beautifully golden exterior coated in a sparkling mix of cinnamon and sugar. Whether you’re enjoying them with your morning coffee or serving them as a comforting treat for guests, these donuts bring the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. No need for fancy equipment—this recipe is approachable for home cooks and baking enthusiasts alike. With a light, yeasted dough and a quick frying method, you’ll have bakery-quality donuts ready to impress.
And the best part? The heavenly scent of cinnamon will linger in your kitchen long after they’re gone.
👩🍳 Ingredients
For the Dough:
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2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
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3/4 cup whole milk, warm (about 110°F)
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 large egg
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3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
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1/2 tsp salt
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2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
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Oil for frying (vegetable oil)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
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1 cup of granulated sugar
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1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
🍴 Execution
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, mix together the warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. It’s a clear sign your yeast is awake and ready to work its magic.
Step 2: Make the Dough
In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg, melted butter, and salt. Add in the foamy yeast mixture. Slowly incorporate the flour until a dough begins to come together. Knead by hand or mixer for 5–7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
Step 3: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Donuts
Roll the dough out to ½ inch thick on a floured surface. Use a 3-inch round cutter, along with a smaller cutter for the hole. Arrange the donuts on parchment paper and allow them to rise for an additional 30 minutes.
Step 5: Fry the Donuts
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot until it reaches 350°F (175°C). ook 2 to 3 donuts at a time, frying each side for 1–2 minutes until they’re perfectly golden. Use a slotted spoon to lift them out, then drain on paper towels.
Step 6: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
While warm, toss each donut generously in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
🧁 Additional Tips
No cutter? Use a glass and a bottle cap!
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For extra fluffy donuts, let the dough rise in a warm (but turned off) oven.
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Storage: Best eaten fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes.
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Add-ins: Mix a dash of nutmeg or cardamom into the dough for a flavor twist.
⏱️ Details
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Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
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Preparation Time: 20 minutes
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Rising Time: 90 minutes
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Cooking Time: 15 minutes
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Total Time: ~2 hours
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Servings: 10 donuts
❓ Q&A About This Recipe
Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A: You can, but expect a different texture—more like a bread roll. For best results, brush with melted butter before baking and again after for the cinnamon sugar to stick.
Q: Can I freeze the dough?
A: Absolutely. After the first rise, shape and freeze on a tray. Once solid, store in a freezer bag. Let thaw and rise before frying.
Q: What oil is best for frying?
A: Neutral oils like canola, vegetable, or sunflower work great. Make sure the oil stays at 350°F for best results.
Happy Cooking
Diana
