Twisted Doughnuts

Golden, soft, and delightfully twisted, these doughnuts bring a perfect balance of pillowy interior and light crisp exterior, kissed with a sweet coating that makes each bite feel like a warm hug. Imagine the aroma of freshly fried dough filling the kitchen, the gentle sizzle as they turn golden, and the irresistible sight of their whimsical spirals stacked high on a plate. These aren’t just treats; they’re little moments of joy, ready to be shared.

Behind the Recipe

The story of twisted doughnuts in my kitchen began on a rainy afternoon, when the idea of baking just didn’t have the same comforting pull as frying something indulgent. My grandmother used to make simple fried dough for us as children, but I wanted to give it a playful twist—literally. That’s how these spiraled delights came to life, each one shaped with care and carrying a nostalgic charm.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Twisted doughnuts are a beloved street snack in many parts of Asia, particularly in Korea where they are called “kkwabaegi.” They’re known for their springy texture, light sweetness, and beautiful shape. Variations exist across cultures—Japan, China, and even some European regions have their own take on twisted, fried pastries. This recipe borrows the best of those worlds, combining a soft enriched dough with the visual fun of a spiral twist.

Why You’ll Love Twisted Doughnuts

Versatile: Enjoy them plain, dusted with sugar, or dipped in chocolate.

Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples, they’re inexpensive yet feel special.

Quick and Easy: The dough comes together in under 20 minutes, and the twists fry up in minutes.

Customizable: Add cinnamon, cardamom, or even citrus zest for a flavor boost.

Crowd-Pleasing: Their fun shape and irresistible taste make them a hit with all ages.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough in advance and fry fresh when ready to serve.

Great for Leftovers: A quick warm-up in the oven brings back their just-made magic.

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Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

A little insider advice goes a long way when making doughnuts this good.

1. Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing and better yeast activation.
2. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free spot for the fluffiest texture.
3. Shape gently to avoid deflating the dough before frying.
4. Keep oil temperature steady at around 170°C (340°F) to avoid greasy doughnuts.
5. Toss them in sugar while still warm so it sticks beautifully.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Before you start, make sure your kitchen is equipped for doughnut-making success.

Mixing Bowls: For combining and proofing the dough.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy matters in baking.
Stand Mixer with Dough Hook: Saves time and effort in kneading.
Rolling Pin: For gently shaping the dough before twisting.
Sharp Knife or Dough Cutter: To cut even strips for twisting.
Deep Frying Pan or Dutch Oven: Ensures even frying.
Slotted Spoon: To lift doughnuts from hot oil safely.
Wire Rack: For cooling without sogginess.

Ingredients in Twisted Doughnuts

The magic of these doughnuts comes from a balance of softness, richness, and gentle sweetness.

1. All-Purpose Flour: 3 ½ cups (440g) for structure and a soft crumb.
2. Granulated Sugar: ¼ cup (50g) to sweeten the dough.
3. Active Dry Yeast: 2 ¼ teaspoons (7g) for that beautiful rise.
4. Whole Milk: ¾ cup (180ml), warm, to activate the yeast and enrich the dough.
5. Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons (60g), softened, for richness.
6. Large Egg: 1, for binding and tenderness.
7. Salt: ½ teaspoon to balance sweetness.
8. Vegetable Oil: For frying, neutral in flavor.
9. Extra Granulated Sugar: For coating after frying.

Ingredient Substitutions

Even without every exact ingredient, you can still make delicious twists.

All-Purpose Flour: Bread flour for a chewier texture.
Whole Milk: Any plant-based milk for a dairy-free version.
Unsalted Butter: Margarine or coconut oil for a different richness.
Granulated Sugar: Light brown sugar for a deeper sweetness.

Ingredient Spotlight

Active Dry Yeast: The driving force behind the dough’s airy rise and soft bite.
Unsalted Butter: Adds not just richness but also a tender crumb.

Instructions for Making Twisted Doughnuts

Making these doughnuts is a joyful process, from mixing the dough to watching them turn golden in the oil.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Heat oil in a deep pan to 170°C (340°F).
2. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, dissolve yeast in warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar. Let it bloom for 5 minutes. Add flour, sugar, salt, egg, and butter. Knead until smooth and elastic.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Keep the frying pot stable and oil at constant temperature.
4. Assemble the Dish: After the first rise (about 1 hour), punch down the dough, roll it out, and cut into strips. Twist each strip gently.
5. Cook to Perfection: Fry in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown.
6. Finishing Touches: Drain on a wire rack, then roll in sugar while warm.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Stack them on a plate and serve immediately for best taste.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The perfect twisted doughnut should have a soft, slightly chewy interior and a delicate crisp on the outside. The frying seals in the dough’s moisture, while the sugar coating gives a gentle crunch. The flavor is lightly sweet, buttery, and warm, with subtle yeast notes that make them truly addictive.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Keep your hands lightly floured when twisting to prevent sticking.
• Work with one strip at a time so they don’t lose their shape.
• If sugar coating isn’t sticking, toss them in sugar immediately after draining.

What to Avoid

• Letting the oil get too hot, which will brown the outside before the inside cooks.
• Over-kneading the dough, which can make it tough.
• Skipping the proofing time, as it’s key to the light texture.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 210

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the dough a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge for a slow rise. Fried doughnuts taste best fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container for up to two days. Reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for a few minutes to restore their warmth. They also freeze well for up to a month.

How to Serve Twisted Doughnuts

Serve them warm with coffee or tea for breakfast, dusted with powdered sugar for a light finish, or paired with chocolate dipping sauce for dessert. They’re also fun for parties—just arrange them in a tall spiral tower for a playful centerpiece.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Turn leftover doughnuts into a decadent bread pudding, slice and toast them for a sweet breakfast side, or chop into cubes for a dessert trifle with cream and fruit.

Additional Tips

Use fresh oil for best flavor, experiment with flavored sugars like cinnamon or vanilla sugar, and always let them cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your tongue.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve on a cake stand with fresh flowers around the base, or dust with edible glitter for festive occasions. Their twists naturally catch the light, making them photogenic from every angle.

Variations to Try

1. Cinnamon Sugar Twists: Roll in cinnamon sugar instead of plain sugar.
2. Citrus Zest Doughnuts: Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for brightness.
3. Chocolate Drizzle Twists: Drizzle with melted chocolate once cooled.
4. Matcha Sugar Twists: Coat with sugar mixed with matcha powder.
5. Filled Twists: Inject with pastry cream or jam after frying.

FAQ’s

1. Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, but they will be less crisp. Bake at 180°C (350°F) until golden.

2. Can I make the dough in a bread machine?

Yes, use the dough cycle for mixing and first rise.

3. Can I freeze the dough before frying?

Yes, freeze after shaping. Thaw and proof before frying.

4. Why are my doughnuts greasy?

The oil temperature may be too low.

5. How do I keep them soft?

Store in an airtight container once cooled.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just keep batches small when frying.

7. What oil is best for frying?

Vegetable or canola oil for a neutral flavor.

8. How do I get even twists?

Cut even strips and twist with gentle tension.

9. Can I add spices to the sugar coating?

Yes, cinnamon, cardamom, or nutmeg work beautifully.

10. Are they suitable for vegans?

Yes, if you use plant-based milk and vegan butter.

Conclusion

Twisted doughnuts are more than just a sweet snack—they’re an invitation to slow down, enjoy the simple pleasure of frying up something special, and share that joy with the people around you. Trust me, you’re going to love this recipe from the very first twist to the last bite.