Fried Cinnamon Recipe
Introduction
Fried cinnamon treats are a delightful indulgence, perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth. These golden, crispy bites are infused with the warmth of cinnamon, making them an ideal snack or dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick treat, or wanting to explore something new in your kitchen, this recipe will guide you through making delicious fried cinnamon snacks.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- ¾ cup warm milk (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 4 cups)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is activated and ready to use.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the flour mixture. Pour in the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, and the egg. Stir the ingredients together using a wooden spoon or a dough hook until a rough dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
Step 2: Shape the Dough
- Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a floured surface and roll it out to about ½ inch thickness.
- Cut the Dough: Using a sharp knife or a dough cutter, cut the dough into small squares or strips, depending on your preference. You can also use a round cutter if you prefer circular shapes.
Step 3: Fry the Dough
- Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan or pot, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to maintain this temperature to ensure the dough fries evenly without absorbing too much oil.
- Fry the Dough: Carefully drop a few pieces of dough into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry the dough for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and puffed up.
- Drain the Fried Dough: Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried dough from the oil. Place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Coat the Fried Dough: While the dough pieces are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until they are fully coated. The warmth of the dough will help the sugar mixture stick better.
Step 5: Glazing (Optional)
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, add a little more milk, a teaspoon at a time.
- Drizzle the Glaze: Drizzle the glaze over the cinnamon-coated fried dough using a spoon or a small piping bag. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
These fried cinnamon treats are best served warm, either on their own or with a side of dipping sauces like chocolate ganache, caramel, or a fruit compote. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. For a festive twist, you can sprinkle them with a bit of powdered sugar or serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Conclusion
Fried cinnamon treats are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dessert that can be enjoyed year-round. With their crispy exterior, soft interior, and the irresistible flavor of cinnamon, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just as a treat for yourself, this recipe is a delightful way to bring a little extra sweetness into your day.