Are you craving the warm, gooey goodness of cinnamon rolls but want something a little…different? Then prepare yourself for a flavor explosion! These cinnamon roll doughnuts are the perfect blend of classic comfort food and fun, innovative baking. They're surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner bakers, and offer a delicious twist on a beloved dessert. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy recipe for a truly unforgettable treat! This recipe is perfect for a weekend baking project or a special occasion, offering a unique and delicious alternative to traditional doughnuts. It’s a quick dinner alternative for those with a sweet tooth!
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 ½ - 4 cups all-purpose flour
For the Cinnamon Filling:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-4 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Step 1: Making the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add the egg, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Whisk until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if needed to prevent sticking.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Preparing the Filling
- In a medium bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
Step 3: Assembling and Frying the Doughnuts
- Punch down the risen dough and roll it out to about ½ inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.
- Spread the cinnamon filling evenly over the dough.
- Using a 3-inch doughnut cutter (or a biscuit cutter and a smaller round cutter to make the hole), cut out doughnuts.
- Heat about 2 inches of oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place a few doughnuts in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Making the Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency.
Step 5: Glazing and Serving
- While the doughnuts are still warm, drizzle the glaze over them.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Roll Doughnuts:
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy doughnuts. Fry in batches.
- Use a thermometer: An oil thermometer ensures the oil is at the correct temperature for even cooking.
- Let the doughnuts cool slightly: This prevents the glaze from melting immediately.
- Get creative with the glaze: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cocoa powder to the glaze for extra flavor.
Variations:
- Chocolate Glaze: Replace the powdered sugar glaze with a melted chocolate glaze.
- Maple Glaze: Use maple syrup instead of milk in the glaze for a delicious maple flavor.
- Nutty Filling: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the cinnamon filling.
Nutritional Information (per doughnut, approximate):
- Calories: 250-300
- Fat: 12-15g
- Saturated Fat: 6-8g
- Cholesterol: 30-40mg
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Sugar: 15-20g
- Protein: 4-5g
These values are estimates and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Enjoy your delicious and homemade cinnamon roll doughnuts!