Are you craving a warm, fluffy donut dusted with sweet cinnamon sugar? Forget those store-bought options! This recipe will guide you through making homemade cinnamon sugar donuts that are unbelievably delicious and surprisingly easy. It's the perfect recipe for a weekend treat, a special occasion, or even a quick, satisfying weeknight dessert. This recipe is all about achieving that perfect balance of crispy exterior and soft, pillowy interior. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm milk (105-115°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 ½ - 4 cups all-purpose flour
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and granulated sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This activates the yeast, crucial for a light and airy donut.
- Whisk in the egg, melted butter, and salt.
Making the Dough:
- 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. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shaping and Frying the Donuts:
- Punch down the dough to release the air. Roll it out to about ½ inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.
- Use a 2 ½ - 3 inch donut cutter (or a biscuit cutter and a smaller round cutter for the hole) to cut out the donuts.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Use a candy thermometer to monitor the temperature accurately.
- Carefully place a few donuts in the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
- Remove the donuts with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
Sweet Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- While the donuts are still warm, toss them in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon. Ensure they are evenly coated.
Tips for Perfect Donuts:
- Yeast is Key: Use fresh yeast for the best results. Old yeast may not activate properly.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy donuts. Fry in batches.
- Temperature Control: Maintaining the correct oil temperature is vital for even cooking and a light, crispy texture.
- Drain Well: Draining the donuts on a wire rack prevents them from becoming soggy.
Variations:
- Glazed Donuts: Instead of cinnamon sugar, drizzle melted chocolate or a simple glaze (powdered sugar mixed with milk or lemon juice) over the warm donuts.
- Spiced Donuts: Add a teaspoon of nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger to the dough for extra flavor.
- Fruity Donuts: Add ½ cup of blueberries or chopped apples to the dough before frying.
Nutritional Information (per donut, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Protein: 3-4g
(Note: Nutritional information may vary depending on ingredients used and portion size.)
Making these fried cinnamon sugar donuts is a rewarding experience. The aroma filling your kitchen as they fry is heavenly! Enjoy this delicious homemade treat – a perfect combination of sweet, crunchy, and soft. They're fantastic served warm, alongside a cup of coffee or milk. These easy recipes and healthy meals are sure to become a family favorite. This quick dinner idea is perfect for any occasion. Homemade cooking has never been so satisfying!