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Classic Cinnamon Sugar Donuts

Recipe by Honey bakes on InstagramAdded 14 November 2026.

30 minutes to prep, 10 to cook. These classic cinnamon‑sugar donuts are light and fluffy, made with a yeasted dough enriched with butter and vanilla. After frying, they are rolled in a sweet cinnamon‑sugar coating, making them a perfect treat for breakfast or a snack.

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Method

  1. In a large bowl whisk together the warm milk, warm water, 1 tbsp granulated sugar and yeast; let sit 5 minutes until fluffy.

  2. Whisk in the remaining 1/2 cup granulated sugar, the eggs, and vanilla extract.

  3. Add 5 cups flour and 1.5 tsp salt (add an extra 0.5‑0.75 cup flour as needed a couple of tbsp at a time) and knead for 10 minutes until the dough is tacky, not sticky.

  4. Cover the dough and rest for 10 minutes.

  5. Add the softened butter a couple of tbsp at a time and knead for another 10‑15 minutes.

  6. Place the kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover and proof for 45‑60 minutes or until doubled in size.

  7. Turn the dough out, roll or cut into donut shapes (about 55 g each) and place on parchment paper.

  8. Cover and proof for 30‑45 minutes until almost doubled in size.

  9. Heat oil to 350°F and fry the donuts until golden brown on each side.

  10. While still hot, roll the donuts in the cinnamon sugar mixture.

  11. Allow to cool and enjoy.

Tips while you cook

Rest before butter
After the first 10‑minute knead, let the dough rest for 10 minutes before adding the butter.
Add butter gradually
Incorporate the softened butter a couple of tablespoons at a time while kneading for 10‑15 minutes.
Second proof covered
Cover the shaped donuts and proof for 30‑45 minutes until almost doubled in size before frying.
Fry at correct temperature
Heat oil to 350 °F and fry the donuts until golden brown on each side.

Notes from ReelsMeals, based on this recipe's ingredients, times and method. They are not the creator's instructions.

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The recipe comes from Honey bakes’s Instagram reel. ReelsMeals wrote it down from the caption and the voiceover. Check the original if something looks off, and for anything about allergens.

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