Deep Fried Cinnamon Puffs
Crispy deep-fried cinnamon puffs with a soft, fluffy interior, perfect for a sweet snack or dessert that appeals to both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Mix well.
- In a saucepan, heat milk, water, and butter until warm (120-130°F). The butter does not need to melt.
- Add the warm milk mixture to the flour mixture, then add eggs and beat at low speed until moistened.
- Beat for 3 minutes at medium speed.
- Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm oven (turn oven on lowest setting for one minute, then turn off) for 20 minutes.
- Once risen, punch down the dough and form into small balls.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 350°F.
- Fry the dough balls until golden brown and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
- Serve warm, optionally dusted with additional cinnamon sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, ensure your milk mixture is at the right temperature; too hot can kill the yeast. If you don't have butter, margarine works well as a substitute. You can also experiment with flavored extracts like vanilla or almond for added depth. If you're short on time, skip the rising step and fry immediately for denser puffs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these warm cinnamon puffs dusted with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar for an extra sweet touch. They pair beautifully with coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or snack. You can also drizzle them with honey or maple syrup for added sweetness, or serve alongside a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cinnamon puffs in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Deep Fried Cinnamon Puffs contains roughly 1870 calories, with 11g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 178g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), protein (22% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1257mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it may result in a denser texture. You might want to adjust the liquid slightly, adding a bit more milk or water to maintain the dough's consistency.
What if I don't have instant dry yeast?
If you don't have instant dry yeast, you can use active dry yeast instead. Just activate it in warm water with a bit of sugar for about 5-10 minutes before adding it to the dry ingredients, ensuring it becomes frothy.
Can I make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it after the first rise. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before shaping and frying. This makes it a great option for last-minute gatherings or brunch.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).