Cinnamon Roll Donuts are a delightful fusion of two beloved sweet treats. Imagine the classic, spiral shape of a cinnamon roll, with its soft, fluffy dough. Now, merge that with the deep-fried, slightly crispy exterior of a donut. The result is a cinnamon roll donut, a treat that’s quickly gaining popularity among dessert aficionados.

Cinnamon Roll Donuts

At first bite, the cinnamon roll donuts offers a satisfying crunch, leading to a melt-in-your-mouth interior. The dough, rich and buttery, is layered with a generous sprinkling of cinnamon and sugar, creating a warm, spicy aroma that’s utterly irresistible. The cinnamon’s earthy sweetness perfectly complements the dough’s richness, making each cinnamon roll donut a delightful experience.

The exterior of the cinnamon roll donuts, usually glazed or dusted with powdered sugar, adds a touch of elegance. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also balances the flavors. Some cinnamon roll donuts are even filled with a cinnamon-infused cream or topped with cream cheese frosting, adding another layer of decadence.

Cinnamon Roll Donuts are perfect for a cozy morning treat or as a special dessert. Their unique blend of textures and flavors makes cinnamon roll donuts a standout in the world of pastries. Whether you’re a fan of cinnamon rolls, donuts, or both, these treats are sure to captivate your taste buds.

Prep time2 hours (including dough rising)
Cooking time15 minutes
Resting time1 hour 20 minutes 

Tools Needed for Cinnamon Roll Donuts

  • Mixing Bowls: For preparing dough and fillings.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure ingredients.
  • Dough Mixer: A stand mixer with a dough hook is ideal, but hand mixing works too.
  • Rolling Pin: For rolling out the dough.
  • Dough Cutter or Sharp Knife: To cut the dough into strips or shapes.
  • Deep Fryer or Heavy Bottomed Pan: For frying the donuts.
  • Slotted Spoon or Spider Strainer: To safely remove the donuts from hot oil.
  • Cooling Rack: Placed over a baking sheet to catch drips while cooling and glazing.
  • Pastry Brush: If applying a butter or glaze coating.
  • Piping Bag (Optional): For any fillings or precise frosting application.
Cinnamon Roll Donuts

Ingredients for Cinnamon Roll Donuts

Dough

  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour: For the dough base.
  • 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough.
  • 1 tsp Salt: Balances the flavors.
  • 2 1/4 tsp Instant Yeast (1 packet): Helps the dough rise.
  • 3/4 cup Warm Milk: Activates the yeast and adds moisture.
  • 1 Egg: Adds richness and structure to the dough.
  • 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter, melted: Provides flavor and tender texture.

Cinnamon Sugar Filling

  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar: For a deep, molasses-like sweetness.
  • 2 tbsp Ground Cinnamon: Gives the classic cinnamon flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter, softened: Helps to bind the cinnamon sugar to the dough.

Glaze

  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar: For a sweet glaze.
  • 1-2 tbsp Milk or Cream: Adjusts glaze consistency.
  • 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract: Adds flavor to the glaze.

For Frying

  • Vegetable Oil: Enough for deep frying, depending on the size of your pan.

How to make Cinnamon Roll Donuts

Prepare the Dough

  • Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1 tsp salt.
  • Activate the Yeast: In a separate bowl, mix 3/4 cup of warm milk with 2 1/4 tsp of instant yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  • Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the yeast mixture, 1 beaten egg, and 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
  • Knead the Dough: Knead on a floured surface or in a mixer with a dough hook for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  • First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Cinnamon Roll Donuts

Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Filling

  • Mix Filling: Combine 1/2 cup brown sugar with 2 tbsp ground cinnamon.

Shape the Donuts

  • Roll the Dough: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
  • Apply Filling: Spread 1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top.
  • Roll the Dough: Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from the long edge.
  • Cut into Strips: Slice the log into 1-inch thick strips.
  • Form Donuts: Take each strip and coil it into a round donut shape, pinching the end to secure.
Cinnamon Roll Donuts

Second Rise

  • Let Donuts Rise: Place the shaped donuts on a baking sheet, cover them, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

Fry the Donuts

  • Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pan to 350°F (175°C).
  • Fry Donuts: Fry the donuts in batches, cooking each side for about 2 minutes or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to carefully turn them and remove them from the oil.
  • Drain: Place the fried donuts on a cooling rack over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.

Glaze the Donuts

  • Make Glaze: Mix 1 cup powdered sugar, 1-2 tbsp milk or cream, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract to make a smooth glaze.
  • Apply Glaze: While the donuts are still warm, drizzle or brush them with the glaze.

How to Garnish and Serve Cinnamon Roll Donuts

Creative Glazing

  • Classic Vanilla Glaze: Drizzle a classic vanilla glaze over the warm donuts. You can add a splash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the glaze for an extra kick of spice.
  • Maple Syrup Glaze: For a twist, mix a bit of maple syrup into your glaze. It adds a rich, autumnal flavor that pairs wonderfully with cinnamon.
  • Chocolate Drizzle: A thin drizzle of melted chocolate over the top of the donuts can add a luxurious touch.
Cinnamon Roll Donuts

Sprinkle Toppings

  • Nuts: Sprinkle finely chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
  • Sugar Dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar adds a sweet, decorative finish.
  • Toasted Coconut: For a tropical twist, sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes on top.

Fruity Flair

  • Fresh Berries: Garnish with fresh raspberries, blueberries, or thinly sliced strawberries for a refreshing contrast.
  • Citrus Zest: Grate some orange or lemon zest over the donuts for a zesty, fragrant touch.

Creamy Additions

  • Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on the side of the plate makes for a creamy complement.
  • Cream Cheese Frosting: For a richer garnish, add a swirl of cream cheese frosting on top of each donut.

Serve with Style

  • Individual Plating: Serve each donut on a small plate with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of syrup.
  • Coffee or Tea Pairing: Offer a warm cup of coffee or tea to complement the sweet and spicy flavors of the donuts.
  • Display on a Tiered Stand: For gatherings, display the donuts on a tiered cake stand for an elegant presentation.

Seasonal Touches

  • Edible Flowers: In the spring, garnish with edible flowers for a colorful and festive look.
  • Seasonal Fruits: Depending on the season, add slices of apple, pear, or peaches.
Cinnamon Roll Donuts

Common Mistakes and Tips

Common Mistakes

  • Overworking the Dough: Over-kneading the dough can result in tough donuts. This happens when the gluten in the flour becomes overdeveloped.
  • Incorrect Yeast Temperature: If the milk is too hot or too cold, it can either kill the yeast or fail to activate it, leading to dough that doesn’t rise.
  • Skimping on Filling: Not using enough cinnamon-sugar filling can make the donuts less flavorful.
  • Oil Temperature Fluctuations: Frying at the wrong temperature can result in donuts that are either too greasy or undercooked inside.
  • Overcrowding the Pan: Frying too many donuts at once can lower the oil’s temperature and lead to uneven cooking.

Tips for Success

  • Gentle Kneading: Knead your dough just until it’s smooth and elastic. It should be soft but not overly sticky.
  • Temperature Check: Use a thermometer to ensure your milk is around 110°F (43°C) before adding the yeast. This is the optimal temperature for yeast activation.
  • Generous Filling: Don’t hesitate to use a liberal amount of cinnamon and sugar. It’s the star of your donut!
  • Maintain Oil Temperature: Keep the oil consistently between 350°F to 375°F (175°C to 190°C). Use a cooking thermometer to monitor.
  • Batch Frying: Fry donuts in small batches to maintain oil temperature and ensure even cooking.
  • Proper Glazing: Glaze the donuts while they are still warm but not hot. This allows the glaze to stick well without melting off.
  • Allow Dough to Rise: Be patient with the rising process. The dough should be allowed to double in size both after kneading and shaping.
  • Even Thickness: When rolling out the dough, aim for an even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
  • Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh yeast and check the expiration dates on your baking powder or soda if used.
  • Rest the Dough: If the dough snaps back while rolling, let it rest for a few minutes. This relaxes the gluten and makes it easier to shape.

How to store leftover Cinnamon Roll Donuts?

  • Cool Down Quickly: Don’t leave leftovers out at room temperature for more than two hours. Cool them down quickly to prevent bacterial growth. For large quantities, divide them into smaller portions to cool faster.
  • Use Airtight Containers: Transfer leftovers to airtight containers. This not only helps in keeping the food fresh but also prevents it from absorbing odors from other foods in the refrigerator.
  • Label and Date: Always label your containers with the content and date it was stored. This helps in tracking how long the food has been in storage and prevents the mystery of unidentified leftovers.
  • Refrigerate Promptly: Place leftovers in the refrigerator as soon as they have cooled. The ideal fridge temperature is below 40°F (4°C) to slow down the growth of harmful bacteria.
  • Freezing Option: If you don’t plan to eat the leftovers within a few days, consider freezing them. Most cooked dishes can be frozen well, extending their shelf life for several months. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers.
  • Reheat Safely: When reheating Cinnamon Roll Donuts, ensure the food reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any harmful bacteria. Use a food thermometer to check the temperature.
  • Avoid Repeated Reheating: Try to reheat only the portion you plan to eat. Repeated reheating can degrade the food quality and increase the risk of foodborne illness.
  • Organize the Refrigerator: Keep your leftovers in an easily visible area of the refrigerator. This not only helps in remembering to consume them but also ensures better air circulation in the fridge.
  • Mind the Shelf Life: Generally, cooked leftovers should be consumed within 3-4 days when refrigerated. If you’re unsure about a particular item’s shelf life, it’s safer to err on the side of caution and discard it.
  • Be Cautious with High-Risk Foods: Foods like rice, chicken, and seafood are more susceptible to bacteria if not stored properly. Take extra care with these, ensuring they’re cooled and refrigerated quickly.
Cinnamon Roll Donuts

Here are some more dessert recipes, you will definitely going to love them

Perfect Ina Garten Banana Bread Recipe

Delicious Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cake Recipe

Nutritional Facts per Serving

Calories: 250-350 kcal

Total Fat: 10-15 g ( Saturated Fat: 3-5 g , Trans Fat: 0-0.5 g)

Cholesterol: 20-30 mg

Sodium: 150-250 mg

Total Carbohydrates: 35-45 g (Sugars: 15-25 g, Dietary Fiber: 1-2 g)

Protein: 3-5 g

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ’s

A cinnamon roll is a sweet pastry made from a yeast-leavened dough, rolled with a cinnamon-sugar mixture, and typically baked. A cinnamon roll donut, on the other hand, combines the flavors of a cinnamon roll with the texture and cooking method of a donut, resulting in a sweet, fried pastry that’s often glazed or frosted.

Yes, cinnamon roll donuts can be baked for a lighter alternative. Baking them at around 350°F (175°C) until golden brown will give a slightly different texture, more akin to traditional cinnamon rolls, but with less fat than the fried version.

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to a week, though this may alter their texture. They can also be frozen for up to a month. To reheat, warm them in a microwave or oven until slightly toasty.

Traditional recipes include dairy and eggs, making them unsuitable for vegans. However, you can modify the recipe using plant-based milk, vegan butter, and egg substitutes to create a vegan version.

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with fillings like cream cheese, fruit jams, or chocolate. Toppings such as nuts, icing, or even a drizzle of caramel can add an extra dimension of flavor and texture to your cinnamon roll donuts.

Super Yummy Cinnamon Roll Donuts Recipe
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Super Yummy Cinnamon Roll Donuts Recipe

Recipe by JesseCourse: DessertsCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Calories

470

kcal

Ingredients

  • Dough

  • 2 cups All-Purpose Flour: For the dough base.

  • 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to the dough.

  • 1 tsp Salt: Balances the flavors.

  • 2 1/4 tsp Instant Yeast (1 packet): Helps the dough rise.

  • 3/4 cup Warm Milk: Activates the yeast and adds moisture.

  • 1 Egg: Adds richness and structure to the dough.

  • 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter, melted: Provides flavor and tender texture.

  • Cinnamon Sugar Filling

  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar: For a deep, molasses-like sweetness.

  • 2 tbsp Ground Cinnamon: Gives the classic cinnamon flavor.

  • 1/4 cup Unsalted Butter, softened: Helps to bind the cinnamon sugar to the dough.

  • Glaze

  • 1 cup Powdered Sugar: For a sweet glaze.

  • 1-2 tbsp Milk or Cream: Adjusts glaze consistency.

  • 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract: Adds flavor to the glaze.

  • For Frying

  • Vegetable Oil: Enough for deep frying, depending on the size of your pan.

Directions

  • Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1 tsp salt.
  • Activate the Yeast: In a separate bowl, mix 3/4 cup of warm milk with 2 1/4 tsp of instant yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
  • Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the yeast mixture, 1 beaten egg, and 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
  • Knead the Dough: Knead on a floured surface or in a mixer with a dough hook for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
  • First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
  • Mix Filling: Combine 1/2 cup brown sugar with 2 tbsp ground cinnamon.
  • Roll the Dough: Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick.
  • Apply Filling: Spread 1/4 cup of softened unsalted butter over the dough, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly on top.
  • Roll the Dough: Carefully roll the dough into a log, starting from the long edge.
  • Cut into Strips: Slice the log into 1-inch thick strips.
  • Form Donuts: Take each strip and coil it into a round donut shape, pinching the end to secure.
  • Second Rise
  • Let Donuts Rise: Place the shaped donuts on a baking sheet, cover them, and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
  • Fry the Donuts
  • Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pan to 350°F (175°C).
  • Fry Donuts: Fry the donuts in batches, cooking each side for about 2 minutes or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to carefully turn them and remove them from the oil.
  • Drain: Place the fried donuts on a cooling rack over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
  • Make Glaze: Mix 1 cup powdered sugar, 1-2 tbsp milk or cream, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract to make a smooth glaze.
  • Apply Glaze: While the donuts are still warm, drizzle or brush them with the glaze.

Conclusion

Cinnamon roll donuts are a delightful fusion of two classic treats, combining the soft, spiraled elegance of cinnamon rolls with the satisfying crispness of a fried donut. Cinnamon Roll Donuts offer a perfect balance of sweet, spicy cinnamon and sugar, wrapped in a tender, fluffy dough, often crowned with a smooth glaze or frosting. Ideal for special occasions or a cozy weekend treat, these donuts bring joy and warmth to any table.

Cinnamon Roll Donuts’s versatility in toppings and garnishes allows for creativity, making them a favorite among both bakers and those with a sweet tooth. Truly, cinnamon roll donuts are a gourmet twist on traditional flavors, embodying comfort and indulgence in every bite.

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