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Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are soft, fluffy, and coated in a perfect cinnamon sugar blend. Ready in under 30 minutes with no fancy equipment needed, these donuts offer an irresistible sweet treat that is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or anytime indulgence. Light inside and slightly crisp outside, they can be easily customized with different toppings, fillings, or vegan alternatives, making them a versatile and quick recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Dough Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or cake flour for more tender donuts)
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup milk (or plant-based milk for vegan)
  • 1 large egg (or flaxseed/chia gel for vegan substitute)
  • 4 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cinnamon Sugar Coating

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • Oil for shallow frying (such as vegetable or canola oil)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix to keep the donuts tender.
  2. Shape the Donuts: Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two cookie cutters of different sizes to cut the dough into donut shapes. Place the shaped donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they have space to rise slightly.
  3. Cook the Donuts: Heat oil in a pan to approximately 350°F (175°C). Fry the donuts in batches for about 2 minutes per side or until they turn golden brown. Remove donuts with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
  4. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: While still warm, toss the fried donuts in a bowl filled with the cinnamon sugar mixture to ensure an even coating. The warmth helps the sugar stick perfectly to the surface.

Notes

  • Use fresh baking powder for the best rise and fluffy texture.
  • Maintain consistent oil temperature to avoid greasy or undercooked donuts.
  • Mix dough only until combined to keep donuts light and tender.
  • Work quickly to shape and fry donuts soon after mixing to retain dough freshness.
  • Drain donuts thoroughly on paper towels to keep the exterior crisp.

Nutrition

Keywords: cinnamon sugar donuts, easy donut recipe, homemade donuts, quick donuts, fried donuts, sweet treats