Cinnamon Roll Cake Donuts
A delicious mashup of cinnamon rolls and donuts, these Cinnamon Roll Cake Donuts feature a fluffy, buttery dough swirled with a cinnamon-sugar filling and are deep-fried for a perfect crispy texture.
Ingredients
For the Donut Dough
- 1 cup Whole Milk, warmed to 110°F (43°C) Warmed milk activates the yeast.
- 2 ¼ tsp Active Dry Yeast (1 packet) Ensure yeast is fresh for activation.
- ¼ cup Granulated Sugar Balances the flavors in the dough.
- 2 Large Eggs, room temperature Brings richness to the dough.
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract Enhances the flavor.
- 4 cups All-Purpose Flour Essential for the structure.
- 1 tsp Salt Balances sweetness.
- 6 tbsp Unsalted Butter, softened Adds richness.
For the Cinnamon-Sugar Filling
- ½ cup Light Brown Sugar, packed Gives a rich caramel flavor.
- 1 ½ tbsp Ground Cinnamon Key flavor component.
- 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter, softened Mix into a paste for filling.
For the Irresistible Cream Cheese Glaze
- 4 oz Cream Cheese, softened Base of the glaze.
- 1 ½ cups Powdered Sugar Sweetens the glaze.
- ¼ cup Heavy Cream or Milk Adjusts consistency of the glaze.
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract Adds flavor to the glaze.
For Frying
- 48-64 oz Neutral Oil (like canola or vegetable) Used for frying.
Instructions
Preparation
- Activate the Yeast: In a stand mixer bowl, combine warm milk, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Mix the Dough: Add eggs and vanilla. With the dough hook on low, gradually add the flour and salt mixture until combined.
- Knead the Dough: Knead on medium for 5-7 minutes. Add softened butter one piece at a time. Knead for another 5-8 minutes until the dough is smooth.
- First Rise: Form dough into a ball, place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1-1.5 hours until doubled.
Filling and Shaping
- Prepare the Filling: Mix softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon into a paste.
- Shape the Donuts: Roll the dough into a 12x18 inch rectangle and spread the filling. Roll into a tight log.
- Slice the Rolls: Slice the log into 12-15 equal rolls.
- Second Rise: Place the rolls on a parchment-lined sheet, cover, and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
Frying
- Heat the Oil: Heat 2 inches of oil in a heavy pot to 360°F (180°C).
- Fry the Donuts: Carefully fry 2-3 donuts at a time for 60-90 seconds per side, until golden brown.
- Drain and Cool: Remove donuts to a wire rack.
Glaze
- Make the Glaze: Whisk cream cheese, powdered sugar, cream, and vanilla for the glaze.
- Glaze and Serve: Dip the warm cinnamon roll donuts into the glaze. Serve immediately.
Notes
These donuts are best enjoyed the day they are made. Prepare the dough the night before for more flavor.