Emma’s Story: How I Fell in Love with Cinnamon Roll Donuts?
I still remember the first time I made cinnamon roll donuts in my tiny kitchen. It was a rainy Sunday morning, and I had been craving something warm, sweet, and nostalgic. Growing up, my grandmother used to make the fluffiest cinnamon rolls, filling the house with that irresistible aroma of cinnamon and sugar. I wanted to recreate that magic but with a twist—something lighter, crispier, yet just as indulgent. That’s when I thought, “Why not turn cinnamon rolls into donuts?”
After some trial and error (and a few flour-covered disasters), I finally nailed the perfect cinnamon roll donut—golden-brown, soft inside, slightly crispy outside, and coated with a heavenly glaze. Since then, it has become my go-to treat for cozy mornings and special brunches. Now, I’m excited to share this homemade recipe with you, so you can experience the same joy and nostalgia with every bite!
What This Article Covers
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the best homemade cinnamon roll donuts from scratch. You’ll learn:
- The essential ingredients and tools you’ll need
- A step-by-step process to make them soft, fluffy, and flavorful
- Pro tips for perfecting the dough and glaze
- How to store and reheat them for later
Introduction to Cinnamon Roll Donuts
What Are Cinnamon Roll Donuts?
A cinnamon roll donut is exactly what it sounds like—a delicious fusion of a classic cinnamon roll and a donut. Instead of baking traditional cinnamon rolls, we shape the dough into a donut form, then either fry or bake them to golden perfection. The result? A soft, fluffy donut with all the gooey, cinnamon-sugar goodness of a roll.
What makes these donuts special is their texture. Unlike regular donuts, which can be airy and light, cinnamon roll donuts have a slightly denser, chewier bite—just like a fresh cinnamon roll. And let’s not forget the toppings! Whether you prefer a simple dusting of cinnamon sugar, a thick vanilla glaze, or a rich cream cheese frosting, these donuts are an absolute treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Still not convinced? Here’s why you need to try this recipe:
- Easy to make – No complicated techniques, just simple steps for bakery-style donuts.
- Customizable – Bake or fry, glaze or dust with sugar, you choose!
- Irresistible flavor – The combination of cinnamon, butter, and sugar is pure magic.
- Perfect for any occasion – Breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these donuts never disappoint.
Brief History & Popularity of Cinnamon Roll Donuts
While cinnamon rolls have been around for centuries (with origins tracing back to Sweden), the concept of a cinnamon roll donut is relatively new. It gained popularity as food bloggers and home bakers began experimenting with classic recipes, looking for creative ways to enjoy traditional treats. The idea of frying or baking cinnamon roll dough into a donut shape quickly took off, and today, it’s a trending favorite in many bakeries and home kitchens alike.
Now that we know what makes these donuts so special, let’s talk about what you’ll need to make them!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Dough
The secret to soft and fluffy cinnamon roll donuts starts with a well-balanced dough. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- ½ cup warm milk (about 110°F)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Filling
This is where all the flavor comes from! A rich, buttery cinnamon sugar filling makes these donuts taste just like classic cinnamon rolls.
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Glaze & Toppings
A glaze takes these donuts to the next level. Whether you prefer classic vanilla, cream cheese, or a maple drizzle, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk (or heavy cream for richness)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 2 ounces cream cheese (for a cream cheese glaze)
Ingredient Substitutes for Dietary Preferences
- Gluten-free: Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix.
- Dairy-free: Use almond milk and plant-based butter.
- Lower sugar: Reduce brown sugar and replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar.
Essential Kitchen Tools
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Donuts
To make the best cinnamon roll donuts, having the right tools makes the process easier:
- Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients.
- Stand mixer (optional) – Speeds up the dough kneading process.
- Rolling pin – Helps roll the dough evenly.
- Round cookie cutter or donut cutter – To shape perfect donuts.
- Baking sheet & parchment paper – For resting and proofing the dough.
- Deep fryer or large pot – If you’re frying the donuts.
- Wire rack – For cooling and glazing the donuts evenly.
Alternative Tools If You Don’t Have a Donut Cutter
- A drinking glass can be used for cutting out donuts.
- A bottle cap or piping tip works well for the center hole.
- If you’re baking instead of frying, a muffin tin can create a different (but equally delicious) version of these treats.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making the Dough – Yeast Activation & Kneading
The foundation of a soft and fluffy cinnamon roll donut is properly activated yeast. Start by warming the milk to about 110°F—warm but not too hot. Stir in 1 teaspoon of sugar and the yeast, then let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step ensures the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
Once activated, mix the yeast mixture with melted butter, egg, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Gradually add flour while stirring, then knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, mix on medium speed with a dough hook for about 5 minutes.
Letting the Dough Rise – Timing & Best Practices
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until it doubles in size. If your kitchen is cold, place the bowl inside a slightly warm oven (turned off) for better results.
Shaping the Donuts – Classic vs. Twisted Style
After the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface to about ½-inch thickness.
- For classic round donuts: Use a donut cutter or a round cookie cutter with a smaller cutter for the center hole.
- For twisted cinnamon roll donuts: Cut long strips of dough, spread cinnamon sugar filling, roll them up, and twist into a donut shape.
Frying vs. Baking – Choosing the Best Method
- Frying: Heat oil in a deep fryer or pot to 350°F. Fry each donut for about 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on a wire rack lined with paper towels.
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Arrange donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
Cooling and Preparing for Glazing
Let your cinnamon roll donuts cool slightly before adding glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting completely and keeps the texture just right.
For more baking inspiration, check out this Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake Recipe—a perfect blend of cinnamon and creamy goodness!
The Perfect Cinnamon Glaze & Toppings
How to Make the Classic Cinnamon Sugar Coating?
If you love the classic cinnamon sugar coating, here’s how to do it:
- Melt ¼ cup of butter in a bowl.
- Mix ½ cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of cinnamon in another bowl.
- Dip each warm cinnamon roll donut in melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
Cream Cheese vs. Vanilla Glaze – Which to Choose?
A glaze takes these donuts to the next level. Whether you prefer a classic vanilla glaze or a rich cream cheese drizzle, both work beautifully.
Vanilla Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Whisk together until smooth and drizzle over donuts.
Cream Cheese Glaze:
- 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Beat until smooth and creamy before drizzling over the donuts.
Fun Toppings to Elevate Your Donuts
Want to make your cinnamon roll donuts even more irresistible? Try these topping ideas:
- Maple drizzle – Mix powdered sugar with maple syrup for a sweet, smoky flavor.
- Chopped nuts – Add crushed pecans or walnuts for crunch.
- Chocolate drizzle – Melt dark or white chocolate and drizzle on top.
- Caramel sauce – A rich caramel topping makes these donuts extra indulgent.
Now that your cinnamon roll donuts are perfectly coated and topped, it’s time to enjoy them! Up next, I’ll share expert tips for making sure they stay fresh and delicious.
Expert Tips for Fluffy & Flavorful Cinnamon Roll Donuts
The Secret to Soft & Airy Donuts
If you want your cinnamon roll donuts to be soft, fluffy, and full of flavor, follow these key tips:
- Use fresh yeast – Old or expired yeast won’t rise properly, making your donuts dense.
- Let the dough rise fully – Don’t rush the proofing process! Allow the dough to double in size for the best texture.
- Don’t over-knead – Kneading too much can make the dough tough. Stop once it’s smooth and elastic.
- Fry at the right temperature – If frying, keep the oil at 350°F. Too hot? The outside will burn before the inside is cooked. Too cold? The donuts will soak up oil and turn greasy.
How to Store and Keep Them Fresh?
Homemade cinnamon roll donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before eating.
- Freezer: Freeze unglazed donuts in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Skipping the resting time – The dough needs time to rise for light, airy donuts.
- Adding too much flour – Extra flour makes the dough heavy and dry. Stick to the recipe!
- Glazing too soon – Let donuts cool slightly before glazing to avoid a runny mess.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make cinnamon roll donuts without yeast?
Yes! If you’re short on time or prefer a no-yeast version, substitute the yeast with 2 teaspoons of baking powder. However, keep in mind that the texture will be more like a cake donut rather than a soft, fluffy yeast-raised donut.
2. What’s the best way to reheat cinnamon roll donuts?
To keep them soft and fresh, warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes. If they are glazed, reheat gently to avoid melting the topping too much.
3. How can I make these donuts healthier?
To make a lighter version:
- Use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free substitute.
- Swap regular sugar for coconut sugar or a sugar alternative.
- Bake instead of frying to reduce oil content.
- Use Greek yogurt in the glaze instead of heavy cream.
4. Can I freeze homemade cinnamon roll donuts?
Absolutely! For best results, freeze unglazed cinnamon roll donuts in an airtight bag for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven before adding the glaze.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Sweet Treat
There you have it—your ultimate guide to making the perfect cinnamon roll donut at home! From the soft, pillowy dough to the rich cinnamon sugar filling and dreamy glaze, these donuts are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you bake or fry them, serve them fresh or freeze for later, they’re an indulgent treat worth making.
Now it’s your turn! Try this recipe, experiment with different toppings, and let me know how they turn out. If you’re looking for more cinnamon-spiced delights, check out this Dirty Cinnamon Roll Recipe for another delicious twist.