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Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Easy Cinnamon Sugar Donuts are a quick and simple treat made from pantry staples that deliver a warm, sugary crunch with soft, fluffy centers. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or anytime snacking, these donuts can be fried or baked and customized to suit dietary preferences or flavor variations.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free)
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Wet Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup milk (or any plant-based milk for vegan)
  • 1 large egg (or flax egg for vegan)
  • 4 tablespoons melted butter (or vegan margarine/coconut oil)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Frying and Coating

  • Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 inches deep)
  • 1/2 cup sugar (additional, for coating)
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (additional, for coating)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, sugar, and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, combine the wet ingredients: milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Slowly mix the wet ingredients into the dry until a soft dough forms.
  2. Shape the Donuts: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (one larger and one smaller) to cut out donut shapes. Save any scraps to re-roll and cut more donuts.
  3. Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain a consistent temperature for best results.
  4. Fry the Donuts: Carefully place the donuts into the hot oil, a few at a time without crowding. Fry for about 1-2 minutes per side or until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  5. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: While the donuts are still warm, generously toss them in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. Make sure every surface is coated for that classic, addictive finish.

Notes

  • Oil Temperature is Key: Keep the oil steady at 350°F to ensure even cooking and avoid greasy donuts.
  • Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the donuts tender and light.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cinnamon and baking powder make a big flavor and texture difference.
  • Dry the Donuts Slightly: After frying, let donuts rest on paper towels to prevent sogginess before coating.
  • Serve Warm: These donuts taste best fresh and warm, so plan to enjoy them soon after frying.

Nutrition

Keywords: cinnamon sugar donuts, easy donuts, fried donuts, sweet treats, breakfast donuts, gluten free donuts, cinnamon donuts