Making a classic cinnamon sugar doughnut is a fun and simple process that results in a delicious, warm treat. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you prepare these delightful doughnuts from scratch.
Ingredients for Doughnuts:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Oil for frying (vegetable oil works well)
Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
Equipment:
- Deep frying pan or a deep fryer
- Doughnut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one larger and one smaller)
- Cooling rack or paper towels
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients:
- Flour
- Sugar
- Baking powder
- Ground cinnamon
- Salt
Stir these ingredients together to ensure they are well mixed.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine until the mixture is smooth.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the wet mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold everything together until a sticky dough forms. Be careful not to overwork the dough to maintain a light texture.
4. Roll the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about 1/2-inch thickness. You want it thick enough to create a sturdy doughnut that won’t fall apart when frying.
5. Cut Out Doughnuts:
Use a doughnut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one large and one small) to cut out your doughnuts. If you don’t have a doughnut cutter, a simple alternative is using a larger round cutter for the outer ring and a smaller one for the center.
6. Heat the Oil:
In a large frying pan or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should reach 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of dough into the oil—if it bubbles and rises to the surface, the oil is ready.
7. Fry the Doughnuts:
Carefully lower the doughnuts into the hot oil, a few at a time, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Fry each side for about 1-2 minutes or until they are golden brown. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to flip the doughnuts halfway through frying.
Once done, remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on a cooling rack or a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
8. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar:
While the doughnuts are still warm, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a shallow dish. Roll each doughnut in the cinnamon sugar mixture until they are fully coated. Be generous for that perfect cinnamon-sugar crunch.
Serving Tips:
- Serve immediately while the doughnuts are still warm for the best flavor and texture.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- For an extra touch, you can drizzle some glaze on top or stuff the doughnuts with jam, chocolate, or cream filling.
Variations:
- Baked Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: Instead of frying, you can bake the doughnuts at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Chocolate Coating: For a chocolatey twist, dip the doughnuts in melted chocolate and then coat with the cinnamon sugar.
- Apple Cinnamon: Add finely chopped apples and a bit more cinnamon to the dough for an apple cinnamon flavor.
By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious batch of classic cinnamon sugar doughnuts that will impress anyone with a sweet tooth!