If you’ve ever craved the ultimate blend of cloudlike softness on the inside and a gloriously crisp golden crust on the outside, TWISTED DONUTS will completely steal your heart. Imagine that first bite: sweet, pillowy dough fused with a gentle crunch, a whiff of warm vanilla, and a sparkling sugar finish. TWISTED DONUTS aren’t just a treat—they’re an experience, equal parts nostalgic and sensational. Whether you’re baking them for a festive brunch or as a comforting weekend project, these playful fritters never fail to deliver smiles around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of TWISTED DONUTS begins with incredibly simple, everyday ingredients. Each plays its part in achieving that classic, irresistible taste and perfectly soft, pull-apart texture. Don’t be tempted to substitute or skip—these basics are the secret!
- Warm milk: Helps activate the yeast and gives a rich, tender crumb to every donut.
- Melted unsalted butter: Adds necessary fat for delicious flavor and a touch of luxury in the dough.
- Active dry yeast: This is what delivers that lovely lift, making the donuts light and airy.
- Sugar: Sweetens the dough and also fuels the yeast for a better rise.
- Large egg: Adds moisture, color, and structure—absolutely key for fluffy donuts.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies all the flavors.
- All-purpose flour: Gives the TWISTED DONUTS their tender structure; dusting extra flour keeps them from sticking.
- Oil for frying: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point; it makes the donuts crisp without overpowering their flavor.
How to Make TWISTED DONUTS
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Begin by combining warm milk, melted butter, sugar, and yeast in a mixing bowl. Let this sit for 5 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and aromatic. This step is crucial—getting the yeast lively ensures your TWISTED DONUTS will rise beautifully and have that signature pillow-soft texture.
Step 2: Make and Knead the Dough
In a separate bowl, stir together the flour and salt. Pour in your foamy yeast mixture plus that whisked egg. Stir everything with a wooden spoon and then knead by hand until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms. If the dough seems a bit dry, just add a splash more milk. This tactile ingredient adjustment helps you nail down the perfect consistency.
Step 3: First Dough Rise
Cover your dough and tuck it somewhere cozy and warm. Let it rise for an hour until it’s doubled in bulk and satisfyingly puffy. This initial rise develops all those incredible flavors and guarantees a tender finished donut.
Step 4: Punch Down the Dough
After rising, press down the dough gently to release any air bubbles. Give it a quick knead until it’s smooth again. Cover and let it rest for 30 to 60 minutes more to further develop that irresistible fluffiness.
Step 5: Shape the TWISTED DONUTS
Once the dough has risen a second time, knead briefly to get rid of air pockets. Divide the dough into 8 even pieces. Roll each one into a rope about 10 inches long, then twist each rope and pinch the ends together—it’s fun and adds genuine street-style character to every donut.
Step 6: Final Proof
Arrange your shaped TWISTED DONUTS on a floured tray. Let them rest for a generous 30 minutes so they get extra plush. After 15 minutes, give each donut a gentle flip—that trick helps them puff evenly for a beautiful shape when they fry.
Step 7: Fry the Donuts
Heat your oil to 350°F in a deep, heavy pot. Reduce the heat just a little to keep things steady, then carefully slide in the donuts, taking care not to crowd the pan. Fry for about 5 minutes, turning them gently with tongs, until they’re a deep golden brown on all sides—the kitchen will smell absolutely intoxicating.
Step 8: Sugar Coating
Once fried, drain your TWISTED DONUTS briefly on a rack or paper towels. While they’re still warm, roll them in granulated sugar for classic sparkle, or wait until cooled to dust with powdered sugar. Each coating delivers its own magical finishing touch.
How to Serve TWISTED DONUTS
Garnishes
For a truly beautiful finish, toss your TWISTED DONUTS in cinnamon sugar or add a veil of powdered sugar for a snow-dusted look. If you’re feeling decadent, drizzle with honey or melted chocolate, or even scatter a few edible flower petals or crushed nuts on top for an elegant touch.
Side Dishes
Pair these donuts with a big mug of hot chocolate, a foamy latte, or a cold glass of milk. They’re also amazing served alongside a bowl of fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream, turning your plate into a real showstopper dessert or brunch centerpiece.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack TWISTED DONUTS on a pretty cake stand for a festive party look, or arrange them in a rustic basket lined with colorful tea towels. For a playful twist, skewer mini versions on sticks or arrange them in a wreath shape for special occasions. No matter how you serve them, they’re guaranteed to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you miraculously have leftover TWISTED DONUTS, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’ll stay tender, though they’re always at their very best fresh on the day they’re made.
Freezing
These donuts freeze remarkably well! Let them cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to two months. Just don’t roll in sugar before freezing—add that after reheating for the freshest finish.
Reheating
To bring your donuts back to peak deliciousness, warm them in a 325°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes. They’ll regain their light, fresh-from-the-fryer flavor and texture. After reheating, roll in fresh sugar or dust with powdered sugar for that just-made magic.
FAQs
Can I make TWISTED DONUTS without a stand mixer?
Absolutely! This dough is soft and easy to knead by hand. Just make sure to work it until it’s smooth and stretchy—it’s a great way to connect with the process.
What if I don’t have instant yeast?
Active dry yeast, as listed, works beautifully and just needs proofing as shown in the recipe. If all you have is instant yeast, you can skip the proofing step and mix everything right in, but the texture may be ever so slightly different.
How can I tell if my oil is hot enough?
The best way is with a kitchen thermometer—350°F is your target. Without one, drop in a small bit of dough; it should sizzle and rise to the surface, browning in about 5 minutes.
Can I make the TWISTED DONUTS dough in advance?
Yes! You can let the shaped and twisted dough rise in the fridge overnight. In the morning, let it come to room temperature for about 45 minutes before frying.
What kind of oil works best for frying?
Go for a neutral oil like canola, vegetable, or sunflower. Olive oil is too flavorful and buttery oils can burn—stick with something mild for that crisp, clean taste.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a homemade treat that wows both in looks and flavor, TWISTED DONUTS are truly worth every fluffy, golden bite. There’s something pure and joyful about shaping each one and sharing them fresh with your favorite people. Give this recipe a try and let TWISTED DONUTS become a new tradition in your kitchen!
Print
TWISTED DONUTS Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 8 twisted donuts
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make delicious twisted donuts at home with this simple and easy recipe. These donuts are fluffy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and coated in a sweet sugar glaze.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter
- 1¼ tsp active dry yeast
- 3 tbsp sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
Other:
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Mix wet ingredients: In a bowl, combine warm milk, melted butter, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Prepare dough: In a separate bowl, mix flour and salt. Add yeast mixture and whisked egg. Knead into a soft dough, adding more milk if needed.
- Let dough rise: Cover and let the dough rise in a warm spot for 1 hour until doubled in size.
- Knead and shape: Release air bubbles, knead dough until smooth. Let rise for another 30-60 minutes. Divide dough, shape into ropes, twist, and form into donuts.
- Final rise and fry: Let donuts rise for 30 minutes, then fry in oil at 350°F until golden brown and crispy.
- Coat and serve: Drain donuts and coat in sugar while warm, or dust with powdered sugar after cooling.
Notes
- For best results, ensure the oil is at the correct temperature before frying.
- Be cautious when working with hot oil to avoid burns.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 twisted donut
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
