Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts Recipe

All-purpose flour: The base for the dough, providing structure and texture.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough and is also used for the cinnamon sugar coating.

Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the doughnuts rise and become fluffy.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the dough.

Melted butter: Adds flavor and helps to create a tender texture.

Vanilla extract: Adds a hint of vanilla flavor to the dough.

Cinnamon: Mixed with sugar to create the classic cinnamon sugar coating.

Vegetable oil: Used for frying the doughnuts to a golden brown.

When mixing the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix the dough. Overmixing can lead to tough doughnuts. Stir just until the ingredients are combined to ensure a light and fluffy texture.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the doughnuts denser.

• sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.

• baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon cream of tartar for every 1 teaspoon of baking powder.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a more complex flavor profile.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in baking.

• melted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a dairy-free option that adds a subtle coconut flavor.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor.

• cinnamon sugar - Substitute with pumpkin spice sugar: Pumpkin spice sugar adds a seasonal twist with spices like nutmeg and cloves.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and a high smoke point, making it suitable for frying.

• To keep your doughnuts fresh and delightful, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and tasty for up to two days.

• If you wish to extend their shelf life, place the doughnuts in the refrigerator. This will keep them fresh for about a week. Remember to bring them to room temperature or warm them slightly before serving to enjoy their full flavor.

• For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option. First, let the doughnuts cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer. Once they are frozen solid, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. This method prevents them from sticking together.

• When you're ready to enjoy your frozen doughnuts, simply take out the desired amount and let them thaw at room temperature. For a freshly-made taste, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

• If you prefer a quicker method, you can also use the microwave. Place a doughnut on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for about 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the doughnut tough.

• To maintain the delightful cinnamon sugar coating, you might want to re-roll the doughnuts in a fresh mixture of sugar and cinnamon after reheating. This will revive their irresistible sweetness and spice.

• Avoid storing doughnuts in plastic bags at room temperature, as this can make them soggy. Always opt for an airtight container to preserve their texture.

• If you have a large batch, consider dividing them into smaller portions before freezing. This way, you can thaw only what you need, keeping the rest perfectly preserved for future cravings.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Heat for about 5-7 minutes or until they are warmed through. This method helps maintain the doughnuts' crispy exterior while ensuring the inside is soft and delicious.

• Microwave Method: Place a doughnut on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the doughnuts rubbery. This method is quick and convenient for a fast treat.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Place the doughnuts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for 3-4 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are not overcooking. This method gives a nice crisp to the doughnuts.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat. Place the doughnuts in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This method helps retain the doughnuts' moisture while giving them a slight crisp.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the doughnuts on the toaster oven tray. Heat for 5-6 minutes or until warmed through. This method is great for reheating a small batch of doughnuts without using a full-sized oven.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the dry ingredients like flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

• Mixing bowl: Used to mix the wet ingredients such as milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.

• Whisk: Helps to thoroughly mix the wet ingredients together.

• Wooden spoon: Useful for combining the wet and dry ingredients to form the dough.

• Frying pan: Used to heat the oil for frying the doughnuts.

• Slotted spoon: Essential for removing the doughnuts from the hot oil and allowing excess oil to drain off.

• Cooling rack: Allows the fried doughnuts to cool and drain any remaining oil.

• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurement of ingredients like flour, sugar, and milk.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients such as baking powder, salt, and vanilla extract.

• Thermometer: Helps to monitor the oil temperature to ensure it is at the right heat for frying.

• Shallow dish: Used to mix the remaining sugar with cinnamon for coating the doughnuts.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Measure and mix dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately the night before.

Use a cookie scoop: This ensures uniform doughnut sizes and speeds up the process of dropping dough into the hot oil.

Preheat oil while mixing: Start heating the vegetable oil as you combine the dough to save time.

Use a cooling rack: Place a cooling rack over a baking sheet to quickly drain excess oil from the doughnuts.

Mix cinnamon sugar ahead: Prepare the cinnamon sugar coating in advance so you can roll the doughnuts immediately after frying.