Korean Twisted Donuts (Kkwabaegi)

Name: Korean Twisted Donuts (Kkwabaegi)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Korean
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 3/4 cup whole milk; 1 large egg; 2 tsp ground cinnamon (plus extra for coating); Vegetable oil (for frying)

Published: May 10, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Kkwabaegi is incredibly easy to make at home with just a few pantry staples
The flavor profile combines sweet and savory notes that will leave everyone craving more
With their beautiful twisted shape, these donuts are visually striking and sure to impress your guests
Serve them warm or at room temperature for versatile enjoyment any time of day

I made these delightful donuts for my cousin’s birthday party last year, and let’s just say they vanished faster than you can say “more sprinkles!” For more inspiration, check out this Blueberry Lemon Donuts recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

All-Purpose Flour: A versatile flour that gives the donuts their light texture; make sure it’s fresh for the best results.
Sugar: Regular granulated sugar sweetens the dough; you can adjust it based on your sweetness preference.
Baking Powder: This is essential for making your donuts rise nicely in hot oil; don’t skip it!
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all flavors; it balances out the sweetness beautifully.
Milk: Whole milk adds richness to the dough; if you’re feeling adventurous, try buttermilk!
Eggs: They bind everything together and add moisture; use large eggs for consistency.
Cinnamon Powder: This spice adds warmth and depth to your donuts; feel free to experiment with nutmeg too!
Vegetable Oil: Necessary for frying; choose an oil with a high smoke point like canola or peanut oil. refreshing cold noodle salad.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

First things first: let’s get our kitchen ready to create magic!

Prepare Your Dough: In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until well combined. Create a little well in the center for wet ingredients. Add milk and eggs gradually while mixing until a soft dough forms.

Knead It Out: On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough gently for about 5 minutes until smooth. This helps develop gluten, giving your donuts that chewy texture we all love!

Shape Your Donuts: Roll pieces of dough into long ropes about ½ inch thick. Twist each rope into spirals before connecting the ends to form rings. Ensure there are no gaps—this isn’t abstract art!

Heat Up That Oil!: Pour vegetable oil into a deep pot or fryer until it’s about 3 inches deep. Heat it over medium heat until it reaches around 350°F (175°C) using a candy thermometer to be precise.

Fry Away!: Gently drop in two or three twisted donuts at a time—don’t overcrowd! Fry them until they turn golden brown on both sides (about 3-4 minutes). Use tongs to flip them halfway through so they fry evenly.

Sugar Coating Bliss!: Once done frying, drain excess oil on paper towels and immediately roll each donut in sugar mixed with cinnamon while still warm. Get ready for that glorious sparkle!

Enjoy these scrumptious Korean Twisted Donuts fresh out of the fryer paired with coffee or tea—it’s an unforgettable experience every time! crispy air fryer falafel.

You Must Know

Korean twisted donuts, or Kkwabaegi, are a delightful treat, combining chewy texture with a sweet glaze
They are perfect for breakfast or as a snack
The aroma of frying dough fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around for a warm bite

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preparing the dough and letting it rest. Once ready, twist and fry until golden brown for the best flavor and texture.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment with different glazes like chocolate or matcha. You can also add fillings like custard for an exciting twist!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Kkwabaegi in an airtight container at room temperature. Reheat in a toaster oven to regain freshness without losing texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always let your dough rest; this enhances the chewiness of your Kkwabaegi
Use oil at the right temperature to achieve that perfect golden color
Don’t skip the glaze; it adds that irresistible sweetness and shine!

I once made these donuts for a family gathering, and they disappeared faster than I could blink! My cousin’s kids were particularly fond of them, insisting I make them every time we meet.

FAQ

What is Kkwabaegi?

Kkwabaegi is a traditional Korean twisted donut known for its chewy texture and sweet glaze.

How do I know when my donuts are done frying?

Fry until they turn golden brown, taking about 3-5 minutes per side.

Can I freeze Kkwabaegi for later use?

Yes, you can freeze them! Just wrap tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.

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📖 Recipe Card