Cinnamon Roll Donuts are a delightful treat that combines the nostalgic comfort of cinnamon rolls with the irresistible charm of donuts. Imagine sinking your teeth into these golden-brown delights, with their warm, fluffy texture and a sweet glaze that lovingly coats each piece. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, these donuts are incredibly easy to make, offering a rewarding baking experience that will have your family and friends coming back for more. In this step-by-step recipe, we’ll explore how to create this mouthwatering treat right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

To make Cinnamon Roll Donuts, you’ll need a selection of simple yet flavorful ingredients that will elevate your treat to the next level:

• 2 & 1/2 to 3 cups (325-390g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 2 & 1/4 teaspoons (1 package) instant yeast
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup (180mL) water, warm and comforting
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, cut into 4 slices, for richness
• 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar, light or dark, to add sweetness
• 1 large egg, at room temperature, bringing richness
• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature, for spreading
• 1/3 cup (70g) packed brown sugar, light or dark, for flavor
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, aromatic and warming
• Oil for frying, to create a crispy exterior
• 2 cups (260g) powdered sugar, for a sweet glaze
• 1/3 cup (80mL) pure maple syrup, adding depth of flavor
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, for the glaze

These ingredients come together to form a delicious, comforting treat that is perfect for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Directions

Creating Cinnamon Roll Donuts is a fulfilling process that will have your kitchen smelling lovely. Follow these simple steps:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 & 1/2 cups of flour (to start), instant yeast, and salt. This initial mixture lays the foundation for your donuts.

2. In a microwave-safe cup, combine the water and butter. Microwave in 10-second bursts until the butter just melts, ensuring the mixture is warm but not hot. Alternatively, you can achieve this on low heat in a small pot.

3. Whisk the brown sugar and egg into the warm water and butter mixture until well combined. This introduces sweetness and richness to your dough.

4. Pour the wet ingredients into the flour mixture. Use a wooden spoon to mix until it starts to form a very sticky dough. Gradually add the remaining flour as needed until the mixture holds together.

5. Knead the dough in the bowl or on a floured surface until it’s smooth and slightly tacky but no longer sticky. If you poke the dough, it should spring back slowly.

6. Cover the dough and let it rest for 20 minutes, allowing it to puff slightly and become easier to roll out.

7. Lightly flour a work surface and roll the rested dough into a 9×13 inch rectangle. Sprinkle with flour to prevent sticking.

8. Spread the softened butter over the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.

9. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter, followed by the ground cinnamon.

10. Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log and pinch the seam to seal well. Trim the ends of the log and cut the remaining dough into 12 rolls, each about 1 inch thick.

11. Arrange the rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet with enough space in between for expansion. Cover them and set aside in a warm spot to rise for 45-60 minutes, until they have nearly doubled in size.

12. Preheat a heavy pot with at least 2 inches of oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F. Test readiness by dropping a small ball of dough; it should bubble and rise to the surface.

13. Using the parchment to lift, carefully drop 3 to 4 rolls into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding. Fry them for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown.

14. Remove the donuts and place them on a wire rack. Continue frying the rest, adjusting the heat as needed.

15. For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and cinnamon in a medium bowl until smooth. Adjust thickness by adding more maple syrup or powdered sugar as needed.

16. Dip the top of each warm donut into the glaze and gently shake off the excess. Let them set for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Tips & Tricks

1. Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results, particularly the egg and butter.
2. To keep your donuts light and fluffy, avoid over-kneading the dough.
3. Use a thermometer to keep an eye on the oil temperature while frying; it’s crucial for perfect donuts.
4. Taste-test your glaze after mixing and adjust sweetness and flavor to your liking.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Cinnamon Roll Donuts are incredibly versatile. Serve them fresh and warm with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast treat. They also make a delightful dessert when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzled with additional maple syrup. Perfect for baking buddies or family brunches, these donuts can be a fun centerpiece.

Nutritional Information

Each Cinnamon Roll Donut is a delicious indulgence. Typically, they have around 200 calories each, depending on the size and exact ingredients used. While enjoying treats like these, try balancing them with healthier meals throughout the day.

Storing Tips & Variations

To store your Cinnamon Roll Donuts, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They can also be frozen for longer storage; simply ensure they’re well-sealed to prevent freezer burn. To reheat, pop them in a microwave for a few seconds. For variations, experiment with different fillings, such as chocolate chips, or top them with cream cheese frosting for a delightful twist.

Conclusion

Cinnamon Roll Donuts are the perfect blend of two beloved treats, offering both ease and enjoyment in every bite. Whether you’re creating them for a special occasion or just a cozy day at home, they’ll surely impress your household. Don’t hesitate to get started on this sweet adventure—share your experience and perfect your technique with each batch!

FAQs

1. Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?

   • Yes, bread flour will give the donuts a chewier texture but may require slight adjustments in liquid.

2. Is it necessary to let the dough rise before frying?

   • Yes, allowing the dough to rise helps create a lighter texture and flavor.

3. Can I substitute another sweetener for maple syrup in the glaze?

   • Absolutely! You can use honey or agave syrup, but the flavor will change slightly.

4. What can I do with leftover dough scraps?

   • You can form them into dough balls and fry them as donut holes—delicious and enjoyable!

5. How can I enhance the cinnamon flavor?

   • Consider adding more cinnamon to the filling or incorporating cinnamon into the glaze for a double dose of flavor.

Cinnamon Roll Donuts

Delightful treats that combine the warmth of cinnamon rolls with the charm of donuts, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 12 pieces

Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 200

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Dough Ingredients

• 2.5 cups 2 & 1/2 to 3 cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 2.25 teaspoons 2 & 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast (1 package)
• 0.5 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup 3/4 cup water, warm and comforting
• 0.25 cup 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cut into 4 slices for richness
• 3 tablespoons 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar light or dark, to add sweetness
• 1 large 1 large egg, at room temperature for richness
• 0.25 cup 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature for spreading
• 1/3 cup 1/3 cup packed brown sugar light or dark, for flavor
• 2 teaspoons 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon aromatic and warming
• Oil Oil for frying to create a crispy exterior

Glaze Ingredients

• 2 cups 2 cups powdered sugar for a sweet glaze
• 1/3 cup 1/3 cup pure maple syrup adding depth of flavor
• 0.5 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon for the glaze

Method

 

Dough Preparation

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 & 1/2 cups of flour (to start), instant yeast, and salt.
2. In a microwave-safe cup, combine the water and butter. Microwave in 10-second bursts until the butter just melts.
3. Whisk the brown sugar and egg into the warm water and butter mixture until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the flour mixture. Mix until it starts to form a very sticky dough. Gradually add the remaining flour as needed.
5. Knead the dough until it’s smooth and slightly tacky but no longer sticky.
6. Cover the dough and let it rest for 20 minutes.

Forming the Donuts

1. Lightly flour a work surface and roll the rested dough into a 9×13 inch rectangle.
2. Spread the softened butter over the dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
3. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter, followed by the ground cinnamon.
4. Roll the dough tightly from the long side into a log and pinch the seam to seal well. Trim the ends and cut the remaining dough into 12 rolls.
5. Arrange the rolls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover them and set aside to rise for 45-60 minutes.

Frying the Donuts

1. Preheat a heavy pot with at least 2 inches of oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F.
2. Using the parchment to lift, carefully drop 3 to 4 rolls into the hot oil and fry them for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
3. Remove the donuts and place them on a wire rack. Continue frying the rest, adjusting the heat as needed.

Glazing

1. Whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and cinnamon until smooth.
2. Dip the top of each warm donut into the glaze and gently shake off the excess. Let them set for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Ensure ingredients are at room temperature, avoid over-kneading dough, and use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature while frying.