Cinnamon twisted donuts

### Instructions for Making Cinnamon Twisted Donuts

#### Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. **Activate the Yeast**: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy. This step ensures that the yeast is activated and ready to make your donuts rise.

2. **Mix Wet Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and eggs until smooth and well combined.

3. **Combine Dry Ingredients**: In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, salt, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon.

4. **Make the Dough**: Gradually add the activated yeast mixture and the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Stir until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a soft and smooth consistency.

5. **Knead the Dough**: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until the dough is elastic and smooth.

6. **Let the Dough Rise**: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

#### Step 2: Shape the Donuts

1. **Punch Down the Dough**: After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air bubbles. Then, turn it out onto a floured surface.

2. **Roll the Dough**: Roll the dough out to about 1/2-inch thickness. Using a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one large and one small for the hole), cut out donut shapes. If you don’t have a donut cutter, you can also use a sharp knife to cut the dough into strips, twist them into a coil shape, and seal the ends to form donut rings.

3. **Let the Donuts Rise Again**: Place the shaped donuts on a lightly floured tray or baking sheet and cover them with a kitchen towel. Let them rise for another 30 minutes, or until slightly puffed.

#### Step 3: Fry the Donuts

1. **Heat the Oil**: In a deep frying pan or pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You’ll need enough oil to submerge the donuts halfway.

2. **Fry the Donuts**: Carefully lower a few donuts into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

3. **Drain the Donuts**: Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

#### Step 4: Coat the Donuts in Cinnamon Sugar

1. **Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar**: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and optional ground nutmeg.

2. **Coat the Donuts**: While the donuts are still warm, immediately toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture, coating them thoroughly. The warmth of the donuts will help the sugar stick, creating a perfectly sweet and spicy coating.

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### Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Twisted Donuts

– **Temperature of Milk**: Make sure the milk is warm, but not too hot. Milk that’s too hot can kill the yeast. Aim for about 110°F (43°C), which is just warm to the touch.
– **Fry at the Right Temperature**: Maintaining the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) is key for frying perfect donuts. If the oil is too hot, the donuts will burn; too cool, and they will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
– **Flavor Variations**: While cinnamon sugar is a classic topping, you can experiment with other coatings, such as powdered sugar, chocolate glaze, or maple syrup for a fun twist.
– **Donut Hole Option**: Don’t throw away the small circles you cut out to create the holes. You can fry them just like the donuts and coat them in cinnamon sugar for mini donut holes!

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### Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon Twisted Donuts are perfect on their own, but you can also serve them with a variety of accompaniments:
– **Coffee or Hot Chocolate**: Pair these donuts with a warm cup of coffee or hot chocolate for the ultimate cozy breakfast or snack.
– **Fruit Jam**: Serve with your favorite fruit preserves or jam, such as strawberry, raspberry, or blueberry, for a sweet contrast.
– **Whipped Cream**: A dollop of fresh whipped cream can add an extra touch of indulgence to these delightful donuts.

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### Why You’ll Love Cinnamon Twisted Donuts

– **Irresistible Flavor**: The combination of the soft, fluffy donut and the sweet, spicy cinnamon sugar coating makes each bite a heavenly treat.
– **Perfect for Any Occasion**: These donuts are great for breakfast, a special brunch, or as a sweet treat for a gathering or holiday celebration.
– **Customizable**: The base recipe is versatile, allowing you to switch up the coating or fillings based on your preferences. Try different glazes, frostings, or toppings for a new twist on a classic favorite.

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### Conclusion

Cinnamon Twisted Donuts are an indulgent, comforting treat that’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With their warm, spicy cinnamon coating and fluffy texture, these donuts are a perfect addition to your breakfast or dessert table. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or shared with friends and family, these homemade donuts are bound to become a beloved recipe in your kitchen. Try them today, and experience the sweet, irresistible magic of homemade cinnamon donuts!