Delightfully Soft and Fluffy Donut Twists Recipe

Introduction

The allure of a freshly made donut twist is hard to resist. Soft, fluffy, and lightly sweetened, these delightful pastries can transform any ordinary morning into a special occasion. Regardless of whether you are preparing breakfast for your family or simply indulging yourself, these donut twists offer a charming and satisfying treat.

Crafted with simple ingredients and an easy technique, this recipe invites home cooks of all skill levels to dive into the joys of baking. The dough, enriched with just the right amount of sweetness, is particularly forgiving, yielding delicious results every time. Once you take the first bite, you'll understand why these donut twists are such a beloved choice among dessert lovers.

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
• 1/2 cup warm milk (110°F or 43°C)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Oil for frying
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon (optional)

Directions & Preparation

1. In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm milk along with a teaspoon of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining sugar, salt, and flour. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, beaten egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
3. Mix until a dough begins to form. Knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area until doubled in size, approximately 1 hour.
5. Once risen, punch down the dough to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle of about 1/2 inch thickness.
6. Cut the dough into strips approximately 1 inch wide. Twist each strip several times to create a spiraled shape and place them on a floured baking sheet.
7. Cover the shaped donut twists with a towel and let them rest for about 30 minutes to rise slightly.
8. In a deep skillet or fryer, heat oil over medium heat. Carefully place a few donut twists in the hot oil, frying until golden brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
9. Remove the twists and drain on paper towels. While still warm, dust them with powdered sugar and cinnamon, if desired, before serving.

FAQs

What if my donut twists don’t rise properly?

Ensure that your yeast is fresh and the milk is at the correct temperature; too hot or too cold milk can hinder the yeast's activation.

Can I shape the dough into something other than twists?

Yes, you can cut the dough into rings or even small balls if you prefer different shapes of fried donuts.

What if my donut twists end up too greasy?

Make sure that the oil is at the right temperature before frying. If it's too low, the donuts will absorb more oil.

How can I tell when the oil is hot enough for frying?

You can drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it sizzles and rises to the surface within a few seconds, the oil is ready.

Can I make a glaze instead of dusting with sugar?

Absolutely! A simple glaze can be made with powdered sugar and milk mixed to your desired consistency, then drizzled over the warm donuts.

What if I want to add a filling to the donut twists?

You can inject your twisted donuts with jam or custard after frying, using a piping bag fitted with a nozzle.

Conclusion

Creating soft and fluffy donut twists at home is an enjoyable experience that rewards your patience and effort with delightful aromas and flavors. Once you master this basic recipe, feel free to get creative with flavors, glazes, and fillings.

Enjoy these treats warm, or share them with friends and family for a delightful dessert occasion. Each bite will reflect your hard work and the joy of homemade baking. Happy frying!

Recipe Card

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.