There’s something undeniably comforting about cinnamon and sugar wrapped in golden fried dough. These Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts combine the ease of crescent roll dough with a nostalgic homemade flavor that feels like a warm hug.
Perfect for brunch, breakfast, or a cozy snack, these twists come together in just 20 minutes and deliver a crispy exterior with a soft, fluffy inside. Serve them hot with coffee or cold with a scoop of ice cream—either way, they’re a sweet little indulgence that’s impossible to resist.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough (8 oz)
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1/4 cup granulated sugar
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1 tbsp ground cinnamon
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2 tbsp butter, melted
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Vegetable oil, for frying
Directions:
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In a small bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon. Set aside.
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Roll out the crescent roll dough on a lightly floured surface and press the seams together to form a single sheet.
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Brush the dough with melted butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top.
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Fold the dough in half lengthwise, then cut into 1-inch wide strips.
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Twist each strip gently and pinch the ends to secure the shape.
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Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
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Fry the twists in batches, turning occasionally, for 1–2 minutes per side or until golden brown.
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Remove from oil and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
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While warm, toss each donut twist in additional cinnamon-sugar to coat.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 210 kcal | Servings: 6–8 donut twists
The Comfort of Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts
There’s something deeply nostalgic about the combination of cinnamon and sugar, especially when it’s wrapped around soft, golden dough and served fresh from the fryer. Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts embody everything people love about homemade treats—comfort, warmth, and that melt-in-your-mouth sweetness. This simple yet indulgent recipe is a fantastic way to bring a bit of bakery-style magic into your home kitchen without needing any special equipment or extensive baking skills.
These donuts are especially popular because they combine the ease of using refrigerated crescent roll dough with the rich flavors and textures of deep-fried desserts. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a weekend kitchen explorer, the simplicity and payoff of this recipe make it a staple for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert tables.
Why Cinnamon and Sugar Work So Well Together
Cinnamon and sugar have been a beloved combination for centuries, used in cuisines around the world from Middle Eastern baklava to Mexican churros. The warmth of the cinnamon pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the sugar, creating a balance that feels cozy and familiar. In this donut recipe, that combo is elevated by the crispy outer layer of the fried dough, which absorbs just enough of the cinnamon sugar to create a crave-worthy crust.
Beyond the flavor, cinnamon has its own set of appealing properties. It’s naturally aromatic and comforting, evoking feelings of nostalgia and warmth. Many people associate it with family gatherings, holidays, and home-baked treats, making it a perfect ingredient to include in feel-good recipes.
The Appeal of Twist Donuts
Twist donuts are visually stunning and uniquely satisfying to eat. Their spiral shape gives them more surface area, which means more crispy edges and more opportunity for that delicious cinnamon-sugar coating to cling to every nook and cranny. The twist also adds a playful, artisanal aesthetic that makes them look more complex than they actually are to make.
Twisting the dough not only helps trap air and keep the inside fluffy, but it also adds to the overall texture and contrast—crispy on the outside, soft and pillowy inside. And thanks to the use of crescent dough, there’s no need to worry about proofing yeast or waiting for long rises. The result is a fast, visually appealing, and flavor-packed treat that doesn’t compromise on homemade charm.
Perfect for Any Time of Day
One of the best things about Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts is their versatility. While they make an excellent breakfast or brunch addition (especially when paired with coffee or chai), they’re also perfect for an afternoon snack, a sweet surprise in lunchboxes, or even a last-minute dessert for guests.
They’re quick enough to whip up on a lazy weekend morning but impressive enough to serve during a brunch gathering or special occasion. You can even repurpose them creatively: serve them warm with a dipping sauce like chocolate ganache or vanilla glaze, or use them as a base for an indulgent ice cream sandwich.
A Great Recipe for Beginners and Kids
This recipe is ideal for families or beginner cooks. Because it uses pre-made crescent dough, you eliminate some of the more intimidating aspects of traditional donut-making, such as kneading, rising, and precise temperature control for yeast. The steps are approachable and fun, making this a perfect recipe for kids to get involved with under supervision.
The twisting and shaping process is engaging and hands-on, offering a chance for kids to learn basic kitchen techniques while having fun with dough. Plus, the almost-instant gratification of seeing the donuts fry up golden and puffed makes it a very rewarding experience.
Tips for the Best Results
While the recipe is simple, a few tips can elevate your final result:
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Use fresh oil for frying. This ensures your donuts are clean-tasting and crisp.
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Monitor your oil temperature. Too hot, and the donuts will burn on the outside and stay raw inside. Too cool, and they’ll absorb too much oil.
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Coat the donuts while they’re still warm. This helps the cinnamon sugar stick better and melt slightly into the surface.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan. Frying too many at once can drop the oil temperature and result in greasy donuts.
You can also experiment with variations, such as adding a touch of nutmeg to the sugar mix, brushing the donuts with a butter glaze, or even filling them with a sweet cream or jam using a piping bag.
Storage and Reheating
Though these twist donuts are best served fresh, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days. To reheat, simply pop them in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes or warm them in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator, as that can make the dough tough and dry.
If you’re planning to serve them later, you can also prep the twists ahead of time and refrigerate them uncooked for a few hours. Fry them just before serving for that fresh-from-the-skillet texture.
Adding a Personal Touch
What makes this recipe even more appealing is how easy it is to customize. Want to turn it into a fall dessert? Add a little pumpkin pie spice to the sugar. Need a holiday twist? Add orange zest or dip them in white chocolate and crushed peppermint.
You can even get creative with toppings—drizzle the twists with caramel, dust them with powdered sugar, or roll them in a mix of cinnamon and brown sugar for deeper flavor. Add a dash of cardamom or vanilla bean for an unexpected gourmet twist.
This is a recipe that can be adjusted and adapted to suit nearly any flavor profile or seasonal mood, making it a great base for culinary creativity.
The Joy of Sharing Homemade Donuts
In today’s fast-paced, convenience-driven world, there’s something extra special about offering guests or loved ones something you made with your own hands. These donuts may be quick and simple, but they deliver that “made with love” quality that resonates with people.
Serve them at brunch with a fresh pot of coffee, bring a batch to work for a morning treat, or surprise the kids on a weekend morning. No matter the setting, these Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts bring smiles and that unmistakable comfort-food joy.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Sugar Twist Donuts are more than just a recipe—they’re an experience. From the delightful aroma of cinnamon in the kitchen to the satisfying crunch of the first bite, they evoke joy and nostalgia in every sense. They’re a reminder that you don’t need fancy tools or extensive skills to make something truly special.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend treat, a fun recipe to make with kids, or a new addition to your brunch lineup, this recipe is as flexible as it is delicious. It celebrates the simplicity of home baking and the beauty of turning ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.
So go ahead—twist, fry, and sprinkle your way to sweet satisfaction. These donuts may just become your new favorite tradition.