If you ever crave a treat that feels like a warm hug in dessert form, let me introduce you to the magical world of the Cinnamon-Sugar Donuts with Chocolate Drizzle Recipe. These donuts perfectly balance a crispy, golden exterior with a tender, fluffy interior, rolled generously in cinnamon-sugar and topped with a luscious chocolate drizzle that takes every bite to the next level. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or shared with friends, this recipe brings out all the cozy flavors of cinnamon and chocolate, making your kitchen smell irresistible and your taste buds dance with joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Believe it or not, the magic behind these Cinnamon-Sugar Donuts with Chocolate Drizzle Recipe starts with simple, everyday ingredients. Each one has a special role—flour lays the foundation, cinnamon adds that signature spice, while butter and eggs bring richness and tenderness. Together, they create a harmonious blend of flavor, texture, and irresistible aroma.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: The backbone of the donuts, providing structure and a soft crumb.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning for a perfect golden crust.
- 2 tsp baking powder: Your secret weapon for fluffy, airy donuts that aren’t dense.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings that warm, spicy aroma and flavor that defines these donuts.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and contributes to a tender crumb.
- 2 large eggs (room temperature): Adds richness and helps bind everything together.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted): Enhances flavor and creates a moist, soft texture inside.
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting): Gives a delicate, sweet finishing touch to the donuts.
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for drizzle): Used for a decadent chocolate topping that perfectly complements the cinnamon sugar.
How to Make Cinnamon-Sugar Donuts with Chocolate Drizzle Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. This dry mix sets the foundation by evenly distributing the rising agents and cinnamon to ensure every bite has consistent flavor and fluffiness.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, blend the whole milk, melted butter, and eggs until you get a smooth, unified mixture. This step is key for creating moisture and richness that will make your donuts tender and soft inside.
Step 3: Gently Fold Wet into Dry
Now, gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined. Don’t overmix here—you want a few lumps to keep the donuts light and airy once fried.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
Heat your oil in a deep pot to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Maintaining the right temperature is crucial for frying the donuts perfectly golden without them absorbing too much oil.
Step 5: Fry the Donuts
Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of batter carefully into the hot oil. Fry each side for about 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown. Use tongs to remove the donuts and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. This method guarantees a crispy exterior while the inside stays soft and fluffy.
Step 6: Coat with Cinnamon-Sugar
While the donuts are still warm, toss them in a cinnamon and granulated sugar mixture. The warmth helps the sugar stick beautifully and adds that signature sparkle and sweetness that dances on your tongue.
Step 7: Drizzle with Melted Chocolate
Lastly, melt the chocolate chips in short bursts in the microwave, stirring in between so they don’t burn. Drizzle the warm, glossy chocolate over your donuts generously to create a rich and irresistible finish.
How to Serve Cinnamon-Sugar Donuts with Chocolate Drizzle Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop, sprinkle a dash of powdered sugar or add a pinch of finely chopped nuts like pecans or hazelnuts on top of the chocolate drizzle. It adds texture and a bit of crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft donut and silky chocolate.
Side Dishes
These donuts pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, creamy latte, or even a cold glass of milk. For a brunch spread, serve them alongside fresh fruit or yogurt parfaits, balancing sweetness with freshness and creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the donuts in a pyramid on a decorative platter and drizzle with extra chocolate sauce just before serving for a stunning centerpiece. You can also thread them on skewers for a playful donut “kabob,” perfect for parties or gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them tender while preventing the cinnamon-sugar coating from getting too soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze these donuts by placing them in a sealed freezer bag or container. When properly wrapped, they’ll stay fresh for up to one month. Just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating
To refresh your donuts, reheat them in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 minutes. This revives their crispy outer layer and warm, fluffy interior without melting the chocolate drizzle completely.
FAQs
Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?
Absolutely! You can bake spoonfuls of batter in a greased donut pan at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10–12 minutes until golden. The texture will be slightly different but just as delicious.
What can I use if I don’t have semi-sweet chocolate chips?
Feel free to swap in dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate chips for the drizzle. Each variety brings its own unique twist to the flavor profile.
Is it necessary to use whole milk?
Whole milk provides richness and moisture, but you can substitute with 2% or even a non-dairy alternative like almond milk if needed—just expect minor changes in texture and flavor.
How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature?
Using a kitchen thermometer is the best way to maintain 375°F. If you don’t have one, drop a small bit of batter in the oil—if it sizzles and rises to the surface quickly without burning, you’re good to go.
Can I make these donuts gluten-free?
Yes, swap all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend, but check that it contains xanthan gum or another binder to maintain the donut’s structure and chewiness.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so satisfying about the Cinnamon-Sugar Donuts with Chocolate Drizzle Recipe that makes it a truly memorable treat, whether you’re making them for a cozy morning or a special gathering. They’re simple yet indulgent, with flavors that bring joy from the first bite to the last. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and enjoy these warm, fluffy donuts with that dreamy chocolate finish as much as I do!
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Cinnamon-Sugar Donuts with Chocolate Drizzle Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cinnamon-Sugar Donuts with Chocolate Drizzle are a delightful treat combining fluffy fried donuts coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar blend and finished with a rich chocolate drizzle. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or indulgent snack, they offer a crunchy exterior with a soft, tender inside.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
Toppings
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
- 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (for drizzle)
- Additional granulated sugar and cinnamon mixture for coating donuts
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the milk, melted butter, and eggs together until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Combine Batter: Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to maintain donut fluffiness.
- Heat Oil: Pour oil into a deep pot and heat it to 375°F (190°C), ensuring the oil is hot enough for frying.
- Fry Donuts: Using a spoon, drop spoonfuls of batter carefully into the hot oil. Fry the donuts for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until a golden brown color develops. Use tongs to remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
- Coat Donuts: While the donuts are still warm, toss them in a cinnamon-sugar mixture (granulated sugar and ground cinnamon) to fully coat each piece evenly.
- Melt Chocolate: Microwave the semi-sweet chocolate chips in short bursts, stirring between, until melted and smooth.
- Drizzle Chocolate: Generously drizzle the melted chocolate over the coated donuts to finish.
Notes
- Ensure the oil temperature stays consistent at 375°F for even frying without greasy donuts.
- Use room temperature eggs for better mixing and batter consistency.
- Do not overmix the batter; lumps are okay to keep the donuts tender.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.
- Store donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for best freshness.
