| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 10 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 280 | 15g | 7g | 34g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 17g | 1g | 4g | 0.45g |
If you’ve ever wondered how to bring a touch of cultural harmony to your dessert table, look no further than my Vietnamese Cinnamon Donuts. This recipe effortlessly fuses East and West, creating an aromatic treat that’s both comforting and invigorating. Drawing from the rich culinary traditions of Vietnam, these donuts are enhanced with the distinctive spice of Vietnamese cinnamon, giving them an extra burst of flavor.
The Magic of Vietnamese Cinnamon
One of the standout ingredients in these donuts is the Vietnamese cinnamon. Unlike its milder cousins, Vietnamese cinnamon delivers a robust and almost spicy kick that can transform even the simplest recipes into something extraordinary. Health-wise, cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its potential to lower blood sugar levels, making these donuts a surprisingly balanced treat. For more on the benefits of different types of cinnamon, you can check out this [article](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-proven-benefits-of-cinnamon) on the health benefits of cinnamon.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
What makes these Vietnamese Cinnamon Donuts truly special is the way they encapsulate the comfort of homemade donuts with a twist of exotic flair. When you bite into one, the crispy exterior gives way to a soft, flavorful interior, coated with a blend of sugar and cinnamon that explodes with every chew. The process of making them is as delightful as eating them, blending together common pantry ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and milk into a cohesive, delicious dough. The recipe also brings a bit of nostalgia, reminiscent of my own childhood in California, where the fresh produce and unique spices always brought out the best in traditional recipes.
These donuts bear some similarity to traditional cinnamon sugar donuts but with an interesting twist. Their subtly spiced flavor profile also makes them an excellent companion to other Asian-inspired dishes. For instance, they pair beautifully with a cup of chai tea or even a Vietnamese Iced Coffee, mimicking the warm, spicy notes of these beloved beverages. If you’re looking for a savory counterpart, consider serving them alongside a dish like Bahn Mi sandwiches. The contrast in flavors—sweet cinnamon with spicy, tangy meat—creates a well-rounded meal experience.
Ultimately, these Vietnamese Cinnamon Donuts are not just a dessert; they are a celebration of the fusion that reflects my own culinary journey. They encapsulate the essence of both my Californian upbringing and my rich Gujarati heritage, demonstrating that the right blend of cultures can indeed create something magical. So, give these donuts a try, and let them take you on a flavor journey that resonates with warmth, nostalgia, and a sense of culinary adventure.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground Vietnamese cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tbsp ground Vietnamese cinnamon (for coating)
Method
Step One
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, 1/2 teaspoon ground Vietnamese cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
Step Two
In another bowl, mix together the whole milk, melted and cooled unsalted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well blended.
Step Three
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined to form a dough. Be careful not to overmix.
Step Four
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently until the dough is smooth. Roll the dough out to about 1/2-inch thickness.
Step Five
Using a donut cutter or two round cutters (one large and one small), cut out donuts and donut holes from the dough. Re-roll any scraps and repeat.
Step Six
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the donuts and donut holes in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Step Seven
Remove the donuts with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Step Eight
In a shallow bowl, mix together the 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground Vietnamese cinnamon.
Step Nine
While the donuts are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until well coated. Serve immediately and enjoy!
