Ingredients
– 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast – activates the dough for perfect rise and fluffiness
– 1/4 cup warm water (110°F) – hydrates yeast without killing it
– 3/4 cup warm milk – adds moisture and tenderness to the dough
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar – sweetens and feeds the yeast
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened – creates rich, flaky layers
– 1 large egg – binds and adds structure
– 1 teaspoon salt – balances flavors
– 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour – forms the dough base (adjust for consistency)
– Vegetable oil for frying – ensures golden, crispy exteriors
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted – for the cinnamon filling
– 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed – provides caramel-like sweetness
– 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon – delivers warm, aromatic spice
– 2 cups powdered sugar – base for smooth glaze
– 1/4 cup milk – thins the glaze to drizzle consistency
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances overall flavor depth
Instructions
1-First Step: Dissolve yeast in warm water in a large bowl. Let sit 5-10 minutes until foamy. This confirms yeast is alive.
2-Second Step: Add warm milk, sugar, softened butter, egg, salt, and 2 cups flour. Mix with a wooden spoon or stand mixer until smooth. Gradually add remaining flour 1/2 cup at a time until dough pulls away from bowl sides. Knead 5-7 minutes on floured surface or with dough hook until elastic.
3-Third Step: Place dough in greased bowl, cover with damp cloth. Let rise in warm spot 30-45 minutes until doubled. Punch down to release air.
4-Fourth Step: Roll dough to 1/2-inch thickness on floured surface. Cut into 3-inch rounds with biscuit cutter. Re-roll scraps. Place on parchment-lined tray, cover, rise 20 minutes.
5-Fifth Step: Mix brown sugar and cinnamon. For each donut, make small slit, pipe or spread 1 tsp melted butter inside, then sprinkle cinnamon mix. Pinch to seal swirl.
6-Sixth Step: Heat 2 inches vegetable oil in deep skillet to 350°F. Fry donuts 1-2 minutes per side until golden. Use slotted spoon to remove; drain on paper towels. For baked: place on lined baking sheet, bake 10-12 minutes at 375°F.
7-Seventh Step: Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Dip warm donuts in glaze or drizzle. Let set 5 minutes.
8-Final Step: Serve fresh. Pair with coffee for busy professionals or pack for students. Inspired by classic takes like this cinnamon roll donuts inspiration.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🥐 Proof the yeast properly in warm milk to ensure fluffy, well-risen donuts every time.
🍩 If no donut pan, shape rings on a parchment-lined baking sheet for free-form baked donuts.
💡 Add chopped pecans to the filling for extra texture and a nutty twist on the classic flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 hour
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg