Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts Recipe

Trust me, once you try this Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts Recipe, you’ll never look at store-bought doughnuts the same way again. These treats have that perfect balance of soft, fluffy dough with a crackling cinnamon sugar coating that melts in your mouth. I’m excited to share all the tips and little kitchen secrets I’ve gathered making this recipe over and over — because homemade doughnuts really don’t have to be intimidating, and the payoff is seriously next level.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

The ingredients in this Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts Recipe are simple and familiar, but each plays a crucial role. From the creamy milk that tenderizes to the yeast that gives the dough its perfect rise, knowing why they’re here helps you nail it every time.

• Whole Milk: Lukewarm milk activates the yeast gently while adding richness to the dough.
• Granulated Sugar: Feeds the yeast and sweetens the dough slightly, also key in the cinnamon sugar coating.
• Active Dry Yeast: This is the magic that makes the dough fluffy—make sure it’s fresh and proof properly.
• All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the dough providing structure but still tender enough for softness.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Egg: Adds moisture and richness, making the dough light but stable.
• Neutral or Light Olive Oil: Keeps the dough tender and is for frying—choose a neutral oil to avoid overpowering the doughnuts’ flavor.
• Cinnamon: The star spice in the coating that brings warmth and aroma.
• Ground Cardamom (optional): Adds a nuanced flavor that’s subtle but special—try it once and you’ll love it.
• Salt (in sugar coating): Just a pinch rounds out sweetness and heightens the spices.

Make It Your Way

One of my favorite things about this Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts Recipe is how easy it is to tweak to your tastes or lifestyle. Whether you love them extra spicy, prefer a healthier twist, or want a simpler version, this dough handles it all like a champ.

• Spice Variation: If you prefer lighter spice, reduce the cinnamon to 1 teaspoon or skip the cardamom. I did this once for a big family brunch, and it was a hit with the kids!
• Gluten-Free Swap: Try a blend of gluten-free flours with xanthan gum, but know the texture will be more delicate—still tasty though!
• Baking Instead of Frying: For a lighter version, you can bake these doughnuts at 375°F for about 12 minutes — just keep an eye so they don’t dry out!
• Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract into the dough for a friendly twist that I adore for afternoon tea.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts Recipe

Step 1: Proof the Yeast and Mix the Dough

Start by mixing lukewarm milk with sugar and yeast in your stand mixer bowl. I always make sure the milk is just warm to the touch—not hot or the yeast dies on you. Let it sit 5-10 minutes until it’s foamy, signaling the yeast is happy and awake. Then add flour, salt, egg, and oil, mixing on low speed until dough forms. Keep mixing for 10-12 minutes until it’s soft, smooth and passes the “window pane” test — that stretchiness means good gluten development, the key to fluffy doughnuts.

Step 2: Chill and Shape the Dough

Shape your dough into a ball and cover it with plastic wrap. Pop it in the fridge for at least 3 hours or overnight if you can—to me, this slow chill is where the flavor deepens and the dough becomes easier to handle. When ready, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about half an inch thick. Cut circles with your favorite cutter (I use a 3¼-inch one) and then cut smaller holes from the center (around 1 inch) to get that classic doughnut shape.

Step 3: Proof the Doughnuts Before Frying

Place your doughnuts and holes on parchment squares laid on a baking sheet. Give them some breathing room so they can puff up. Cover loosely and let proof about 35 to 45 minutes. When you gently press a finger, the dough should spring back slowly, indicating they’re perfectly risen.

Step 4: Heat Oil and Fry

While the doughnuts proof, heat your oil to 350°F (180°C)—a candy or deep-fry thermometer really helps here to keep steady heat. I fry two doughnuts at a time, carefully dropping them in with tongs (the parchment helps them slide right off). Fry each side for about 1.5 minutes until golden. Remove and place on a wire rack to drain and cool just slightly before tossing in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Repeat until you’ve fried all of them.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep it classic with a generous toss in cinnamon sugar just after frying — that amazing spicy-sweet crunch is what makes these doughnuts sing. But for fancy occasions, I’ve dipped some in melted chocolate or drizzled caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch.

Side Dishes

Try pairing these doughnuts with a rich cup of coffee or spicy chai latte to complement the cinnamon. For brunch, fresh fruit or yogurt on the side balances the sweetness nicely and keeps the meal feeling fresh.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, arranging doughnuts stacked on a tiered stand with little paper flags or edible flowers makes a stunning display. I once rolled doughnut holes in colored sugar for a festive look — guests loved picking and sharing those tiny bites!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. I cover mine lightly with a clean kitchen towel to keep the sugar coating crisp. They won’t be quite as perfect as fresh, but still delicious.

Freezing

I’ve successfully frozen fully cooled doughnuts in a single layer on parchment in a sealed container. When I’m ready to eat them, I thaw at room temp and refresh quickly in the microwave or oven.

Reheating

To revive that fresh-from-the-fryer magic, I heat doughnuts in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or pop them in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes. This heats through without drying them out, and I toss them in cinnamon sugar again if needed.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts Recipe is my go-to whenever I want to impress friends or just treat myself to a cozy, nostalgic moment at home. They’re straightforward to make, yet totally indulgent and comforting. You’ll appreciate every step and bite—and don’t be surprised if you find yourself making them again soon. Seriously, grab your ingredients and start the fun; your kitchen (and taste buds) will thank you!

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