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Cinnamon Twists Homemade Doughnuts Recipe for Soft and Fluffy Results

These homemade cinnamon twist doughnuts are golden on the outside and perfectly soft and fluffy on the inside. Twisted by hand and coated in cinnamon sugar, they’re a deliciously satisfying treat that’s ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Fry them fresh and serve warm for the ultimate bakery-style experience at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • ¾ cup warm milk (about 110°F or 43°C)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • Oil for frying

For coating:

  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and salt.
  3. Add the egg, softened butter, and the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
  6. Punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions (about 12).
  7. Roll each portion into a rope and twist two ropes together to form a twist shape. Pinch the ends to seal.
  8. Place the twists on a parchment-lined tray, cover, and let rise again for about 30 minutes.
  9. Heat oil in a deep fryer or deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
  10. Fry the donut twists in batches until golden brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  11. Drain on paper towels and while still warm, roll in granulated sugar or cinnamon sugar.
  12. Serve fresh and enjoy.

Notes

  • For extra lightness, ensure the dough proofs in a warm, draft-free area.

  • Always coat the doughnuts while warm to help the sugar stick evenly.

  • Use a thermometer for oil to ensure a consistent 350°F frying temperature.

  • To glaze instead of sugar-coat, let the doughnuts cool slightly before dipping.

  • Feel free to experiment with spices like cardamom, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice in the sugar coating for seasonal variations.