Soft and Fluffy Donut Twists Recipe – The Perfect Sweet Treat

If you’ve ever walked past a bakery and smelled the irresistible aroma of freshly fried donuts, you know how tempting they can be. Now imagine being able to make that same bakery magic in your own kitchen. These Soft and Fluffy Donut Twists are everything you could ever want in a donut—light, airy, slightly chewy, and coated in a sweet layer of sugar or cinnamon sugar. The golden crust gives the perfect crisp bite, while the inside stays tender and fluffy like a pillow.

Unlike regular round donuts with holes in the middle, donut twists have a unique twisted design that makes them visually stunning and fun to eat. They’re the kind of treat that instantly makes you smile, whether you’re enjoying them at breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a late-night indulgence with coffee or tea.

This recipe is designed to be beginner-friendly, using simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps. With just a bit of patience during the rising time, you’ll be rewarded with donuts that are even better than the ones you buy at the bakery.

What Are Donut Twists?

Donut twists are yeast-raised donuts shaped into long ropes of dough, twisted together before frying. This gives them their signature look and creates layers that trap sugar or glaze beautifully. Unlike dense cake donuts, these are made with yeast, which gives them that light, airy texture and chewy bite.

They’re very popular in Asian bakeries, but you’ll also find them in American donut shops. Some versions are glazed, others are dusted with powdered sugar, and some are rolled in cinnamon sugar for extra warmth and flavor.

Why You’ll Love These Soft and Fluffy Donut Twists

Homemade bakery-quality: You’ll get the same flavor and texture as professional donuts.
Fun to shape: Twisting the ropes is simple and gives them a beautiful look.
Customizable: You can coat them in sugar, cinnamon sugar, or even dip them in glaze.
Perfect texture: Soft and fluffy on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside.
Family favorite: Both kids and adults will devour them quickly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a detailed breakdown of what goes into making these delicious donut twists:

3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour – Provides the structure of the dough. You’ll need a little extra for dusting when shaping.
2 ¼ tsp instant yeast (1 packet) – Helps the dough rise and gives the donuts their airy texture.
½ cup warm milk – Adds richness and activates the yeast.
¼ cup warm water – Keeps the dough hydrated without making it too heavy.
⅓ cup sugar – Sweetens the dough and feeds the yeast.
1 large egg (room temperature) – Binds the ingredients and adds softness.
3 tbsp unsalted butter (softened) – Brings richness and tenderness.
½ tsp salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
Oil for frying – Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or sunflower are best.

For the coating:

½ cup sugar (or cinnamon sugar for extra flavor)
2 tbsp melted butter (optional, helps sugar stick better)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture

In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Stir lightly and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. This step is crucial—if your mixture doesn’t foam, your yeast may be inactive, and the donuts won’t rise properly.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture, crack in the egg, and add the softened butter. Mix until a sticky dough forms, then knead for 8–10 minutes (by hand or with a mixer) until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Transfer the dough into a lightly greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap or a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Donut Twists

Punch down the dough to release the air. Divide it into 10–12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 8–10 inches long.

Option 1: Take two ropes and twist them together, pinching the ends to seal.
Option 2: Fold one rope in half and twist it around itself.

Place the shaped twists on a parchment-lined tray, cover lightly, and let rise again for 30–40 minutes until puffy.

Step 5: Fry the Donuts

Heat oil in a deep pan to 325–340°F (165–170°C). Gently drop in the donut twists, frying 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pan so they cook evenly. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Coat and Serve

While still warm, brush the donuts lightly with melted butter (optional) and roll in sugar or cinnamon sugar until coated evenly. Serve fresh and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Donut Twists

Use warm, not hot, liquid – Too hot will kill the yeast, too cold won’t activate it.
Knead until elastic – This builds gluten, giving the donuts structure and chewiness.
Watch the oil temperature – Use a thermometer if possible; too hot burns the outside, too cool makes oily donuts.
Second rise is key – Don’t rush this step; it ensures fluffy results.
Eat fresh – Donuts are best enjoyed the day they’re made.

Variations to Try

Glazed Donut Twists: Dip in a simple glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate or dip half of each twist.
Powdered Sugar: Coat with confectioners’ sugar instead of granulated sugar.
Savory Twists: Skip the sugar and brush with garlic butter and herbs for a savory snack.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.
Pair with fresh fruit for a sweet and refreshing breakfast.
Dip in chocolate sauce, caramel, or fruit jam for extra indulgence.

Storage and Reheating

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 day.
Freezer: Freeze shaped dough before frying; thaw and fry later.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Homemade Soft and Fluffy Donut Twists are a true labor of love. With a little patience, you’ll end up with donuts that are golden on the outside, soft and airy on the inside, and coated in sweet sugar that makes every bite irresistible.

Once you try this recipe, you’ll realize that bakery-style donuts aren’t so hard to achieve at home. In fact, these might just become your family’s new favorite weekend treat!