How to Make Twisted Donuts
Twisted Donuts! Making twisted donuts is a fun and delicious process! Growing up in Jamaica twists donuts were a major part of lunch time we had it with a side of Jamaican cheese. To make these golden, twisted treats from scratch myself was so fun and brought back many memories. Now it is time for you to create your memories with this simple recipe.
What is in Twisted Donuts?
Twisted donuts, like any other type of donut, typically consist of basic ingredients such as flour, sugar, eggs, milk or water, yeast or baking powder, salt, and butter.
What is the History of Twisted Donuts?
Believe it or not, the roots of twisted pastries trace back centuries. In ancient civilizations, the dough was twisted and fried as a simple yet satisfying treat. From the Mediterranean to Asia, variations of twisted dough emerged, each reflecting the unique culinary traditions of its region.
European Influence on Twisted Donuts
As trade routes expanded and cultures mingled, twisted pastries found their way to Europe.
In medieval times, bakers across the continent perfected the art of twisting dough, creating intricate shapes and flavors fit for kings and queens.
These indulgent treats became synonymous with celebrations and festivities, symbolizing abundance and joy.
The American Twist on Twisted Donuts
Fast forward to the New World, where immigrants brought their culinary traditions to the bustling streets of America.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, bakeries in cities like New York and Philadelphia began churning out twisted donuts, drawing inspiration from their European roots.
These humble pastries quickly captured the hearts (and taste buds) of Americans, becoming a beloved staple of diners and coffee shops nationwide.
The Evolution of the Twisted Donuts
In the age of innovation, the humble twisted donut has undergone a renaissance of sorts. From artisanal bakeries to trendy cafes, chefs and bakers alike are putting their twist on this classic treat.
Creative flavors, eye-catching toppings, and Instagram-worthy presentations have transformed the humble twisted donut into a culinary sensation fit for the digital age.
Twisted Donuts Ingredients
- Flour: Provides structure and texture to the donut. All-purpose flour is commonly used. You can use gluten-free flour such as King Arthur’s Gluten-Free Flour.
- Sugar: Adds sweetness to the donut and helps with browning during the baking/frying process.
- Eggs: Act as a binding agent and help to provide structure and richness to the donut. Feel free to substitute for a vegan binder like flax gel.
- Milk or Water: Adds moisture to the dough, contributing to its texture and tenderness. Milk also adds flavor and richness.
- Yeast: Yeast is used to help the dough rise by fermenting sugars present in the dough.
- Salt: Enhances the flavor of the donut and helps to balance the sweetness of the other ingredients. It also strengthens the gluten structure in the dough.
- Butter: Adds moisture and tenderness to the donut, as well as flavor. Butter makes everything better! Use vegan butter as an alternative if you’re vegan.
- Vanilla and Nutmeg: We love adding these in because they enhance flavor and taste.
How to Make Twisted Donuts
- Getting Started: To kick things off, let’s gather our ingredients. You’ll need flour, sugar, yeast, salt, warm milk, butter, eggs, nutmeg, and a touch of vanilla extract.
- Mixing & Kneading: Now, let’s get mixing. Combine the dry ingredients and then add the wet ones, watching as the dough comes together.
- Prepare the Dough: Start by preparing your donut dough according to your chosen recipe. Let the dough rise until it has doubled in size.
- Roll out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, gently deflate it and roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle of even thickness.
- Cut the Dough: Use a sharp knife or a pizza cutter to cut the dough into strips of equal width. The width of the strips will determine the thickness of the twists.
Form the Donuts
- Twist the Dough: Take one strip of dough and gently stretch it out slightly. Then, hold each end of the strip and twist it in opposite directions until it forms a spiral or twisted shape. Repeat with the remaining strips of dough.
- Shape the Twists: After twisting each strip, you can shape them into a traditional twisted donut shape by bringing the ends together to form a circle or oval. Press the ends together firmly to seal them.
- Let them Rise Again: Place the twisted donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between each one to allow for expansion. Cover them loosely with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for a second time until they become puffy.
- Fry or Bake the Donuts: Once the twisted donuts have risen again, you can fry them in hot oil until golden brown on both sides.
- Cool and Glaze: Allow the twisted donuts to cool slightly on a wire rack before glazing them with your favorite toppings, such as sugar, powdered sugar, icing, or chocolate glaze.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are twisted donuts called?
Twisted donuts are often referred to simply as “twisted donuts” or “twist donuts.”
They are a variation of the classic donut shape, featuring a twisted or braided design that adds visual appeal to the treat.
Sometimes, they might be called “twist doughnuts” or “braided donuts” depending on the specific recipe or regional preferences.
In essence, the name may vary, but all in all the concept remains the same: a donut with a twisted shape.
How do you twist donuts?
- To twist donuts first take one strip of dough and gently stretch it out slightly.
- Then, hold each end of the strip and twist it in opposite directions until it forms a spiral or twisted shape.
- Repeat with the remaining strips of dough.
- After twisting each strip, you can shape them into a traditional twisted donut shape by bringing the ends together to form a circle or oval.
- Press the ends together firmly to seal them.
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How to Make Twisted Donuts
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2/3 cup warm milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter , melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Optional toppings:
- Cinnamon sugar
- Glaze
- Powdered sugar
- Sprinkles
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, nutmeg and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air bubbles and divide it into equal portions.
- Roll each portion into a rope about 10-12 inches long.
- Twist each rope into a loose knot or braid, tucking the ends underneath.
- Place the twisted donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover them with a kitchen towel, and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the twisted donuts in the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry them for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the donuts from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate or wire rack to drain.
- While the donuts are still warm, you can coat them in cinnamon sugar, dip them in glaze, or dust them with powdered sugar.
- Serve the twisted donuts warm and enjoy!
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