Name: Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts That Take You Back to Childhood
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free flour.); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar (Consider coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.); 1 tbsp Baking Powder (Check for freshness.); 1/2 tsp Salt; 1 tbsp Ground Cinnamon (Replace with nutmeg for a unique flavor.); 3/4 cup Whole Milk (Use almond milk for a dairy-free option.); 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter (melted) (Vegetable oil can be a lighter alternative.); 1 large Egg (A flax egg can be used for a vegan option.); 1/2 cup Sugar (for coating); 1 tbsp Ground Cinnamon (for coating) (Adjust to taste.)

As I pulled the warm Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts from the oven, the familiar aroma wrapped around me like a cozy blanket, transporting me back to my childhood. These delightful homemade treats are not just about their fluffy texture and sweet, crunchy cinnamon coating; they embody nostalgia and comfort in every bite. Best of all, they’re incredibly easy to prepare—perfect for those busy mornings when you want to bring a touch of magic to your breakfast table, or when you’re looking to impress friends at brunch. Whether enjoyed on lazy weekends or at festive gatherings, these donuts promise to create lasting memories with loved ones. Curious about crafting your own batch of these nostalgic delights? Let’s dive into the simple steps together!

Why Are Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts Irresistible?

Nostalgic Flavor: The enchanting aroma of cinnamon and sugar instantly transports you back to carefree childhood days, making these donuts a delightful treat for all ages.

Easy to Make: No advanced baking skills required—these donuts come together in just a few simple steps, allowing you more time to savor every bite.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual breakfast, a weekend brunch, or a festive gathering, these donuts are sure to impress your guests and bring smiles all around.

Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips or fruit fillings, or even trying variations like our Cinnamon Swirl Banana for a unique twist!

Quick Bake Time: With just 10-12 minutes in the oven, you can enjoy fresh, warm donuts without the hassle of deep frying.

Each bite of these warm treats provides that comforting crunch, perfect with a cup of coffee or alongside a scoop of ice cream for a sweet dessert!

Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts Ingredients

For the Donuts

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and stability; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to the dough; consider coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index alternative.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring your donuts rise beautifully; check for freshness to get the best results.
Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness, giving a more rounded taste.
Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warm, aromatic flavor; replace with nutmeg for a unique spin.
Whole Milk – Adds richness and moisture; use almond milk for a dairy-free version.
Unsalted Butter (melted) – Contributes flavor and moisture; vegetable oil can also be used for a lighter alternative.
Large Egg – Serves as a binder to hold the donuts together; a flax egg can be used for a vegan touch.

For the Coating

Sugar (for coating) – Adds sweetness and a delightful crunch to the outside.
Ground Cinnamon (for coating) – Boosts the flavor of the outer coating; adjust to taste for an extra kick!

Crafting these Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts will surely evoke fond memories of your favorite childhood treats while bringing a comforting warmth to your home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts bake evenly, developing that perfect golden-brown color. As the oven warms up, your kitchen will fill with the exciting aroma of cinnamon and sugar—an inviting prelude to the deliciousness to come!

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Stir these dry ingredients together until they are well combined and fluffy, making sure to break up any lumps. This step creates a solid foundation for your donut batter and helps to bring out the warm flavors of the cinnamon.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, melted unsalted butter, and the egg until smooth. Take your time with this step to ensure the butter cools slightly, preventing the egg from curdling. The combination of these wet ingredients adds moisture and richness to the Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts, making them fluffy and delightful.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, folding them together carefully. Mix until just combined, being cautious not to over-mix, as this could lead to dense donuts. The batter should remain a bit lumpy, which helps maintain the airy texture of the finished Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts—just the way we like them!

Step 5: Shape the Donuts
Dust your work surface with a little flour and roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thick. Using a donut cutter or two circular cutters, cut out your donuts, twisting the dough for that signature shape. Make sure to gather and re-roll any leftover dough to create more delightful treats while keeping your hands dusted to avoid stickiness.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts
Arrange the shaped donuts on a greased baking sheet, ensuring they have space to rise without touching. Bake them in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown on top and a toothpick comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen during this stage will be simply irresistible—just wait until you taste!

Step 7: Prepare the Coating
While the donuts bake, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating by mixing granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a shallow dish. This step enhances the delicious flavor of your Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts and creates that signature sweet, crunchy exterior. Adjust the cinnamon amount to your taste for an extra warm kick!

Step 8: Coat the Donuts
As soon as the donuts are out of the oven, let them cool for a minute before rolling them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. While they are still warm, this will ensure the coating sticks perfectly. Give each donut a good shake in the sugary mix until well coated, adding that delightful crunch that makes these treats extra special.

What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts

There’s nothing like a warm donut to bring comfort, but elevating your experience with the perfect sides can create a truly memorable meal.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of berries and melons adds a burst of color and balances the sweetness with fruity acidity.
Rich Coffee: The dark, bold notes of freshly brewed coffee complement the cinnamon flavor beautifully, making each bite more indulgent.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serving these donuts with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast in temperature and texture, enhancing the sweet experience.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream offers a light, airy companion that enhances the donut’s richness without overwhelming it.
Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm chocolate sauce over the donuts injects a decadently sweet touch, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
Maple Syrup: The warm maple notes add a different layer of sweetness that beautifully pairs with the cinnamon flavor, ideal for brunch settings.
Milk: Cold milk offers a classic touch and helps to wash down the sweet, sticky goodness of these donuts, ensuring a complete treat.

These choices will help you craft a delightful spread that celebrates the warm, nostalgic flavors of your Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts!

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts

Room Temperature: Keep the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This will maintain their softness and flavor while avoiding any staleness.

Fridge: If you want to extend their freshness, store the donuts in the fridge for up to 5 days. Be sure to seal them well to prevent them from drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag and enjoy them within 2-3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy thawed or refrigerated donuts, warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-8 minutes to re-crisp the outer layer.

Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts Variations

Feel free to sprinkle some creativity into your Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts for a delightful twist!

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour instead of all-purpose flour for a lighter option that everyone can enjoy.
Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch that beautifully complements the cinnamon flavor.
Fruit-Filled: Try incorporating jam or fresh fruit, such as blueberries or apples, right into the dough for a juicy surprise in every bite. It adds a touch of freshness and whimsy!
Spicy Kick: Experiment with adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat in the cinnamon sugar coating—it adds a surprising twist to the sweetness.
Chocolaty Bliss: Stir in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the dough for a decadent chocolate-cinnamon pairing that will satisfy any sweet tooth. Each donut becomes a fun surprise!
Pumpkin Spice: Swap out half of the flour for pumpkin puree and include pumpkin spice instead of ground cinnamon for a seasonal delight. Imagine the cozy warmth in each bite!
Coconut Bliss: Use coconut sugar in place of granulated sugar for a slight caramel flavor, and add shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical feel. It’s a sweet escape to paradise!

Feel excited to personalize your donuts? Check out our Cinnamon French Toast Biscuits for more fun flavor combinations!

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts

Avoid Over-Mixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to keep your donuts soft and fluffy. Over-mixing can lead to dense donuts.
Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the baking time! Start checking your Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts at the 10-minute mark to prevent over-baking and to maintain that perfect golden color.
Cooling Time: Allow the donuts to cool slightly before coating them in cinnamon sugar. This helps the sugar mixture adhere better for a deliciously crunchy exterior.
Adjust Coating to Taste: Don’t hesitate to customize the sugar-cinnamon ratio in the coating! A little extra cinnamon can enhance flavor, making each bite more memorable.
Use Fresh Baking Powder: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for the best rise in your donuts. Old baking powder can result in flat donuts that don’t have that desired fluffy texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts are fantastic for busy familes looking to save time! You can prepare the donut dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the steps to mix the dry and wet ingredients, then combine them just until moist. Next, tightly wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to enjoy, roll out the dough, cut it into shapes, and bake as directed. If you’d like to make them even further ahead, shape the donuts and freeze them for up to 3 days, then bake straight from the freezer, adding a minute or two to the baking time. The result will be just as delicious, allowing you to savor sweet memories without the hassle on busy mornings!

Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts Recipe FAQs

What type of flour is best for making Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for the best results, but you can substitute with gluten-free flour to accommodate dietary needs. Ensure that the gluten-free flour blend contains xanthan gum for that perfect structure.

How should I store leftover Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts?
Store these donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can also refrigerate them for up to 5 days, making sure to seal them properly to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the baked donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and reheat.

What are some common troubleshooting tips for making these donuts?
If your donuts turn out dense, it may be due to over-mixing the batter. Always mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Additionally, check the freshness of your baking powder—using stale baking powder can lead to lackluster rise in your donuts. If they are too dry, ensure you are measuring your ingredients accurately, especially the flour.

Are there any dietary considerations for the Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts?
Yes! For a dairy-free option, substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk, and replace unsalted butter with vegetable oil or coconut oil. For a vegan version, you can use a flax egg made from 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water instead of a regular egg.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Very! You can prepare the donut dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover it tightly so it doesn’t dry out. This makes it super convenient for quick baking when you’re ready!