If you’ve ever loved those classic Uncrustables sandwiches but wished they were a bit more indulgent and fun, this Uncrustable Donuts Recipe is about to change your snack game forever. Frying these sweet little pockets until they’re golden and crispy, then coating them in cinnamon sugar, gives you a dreamy treat that’s part donut, part nostalgic sandwich—totally irresistible. I absolutely love how the outside turns gorgeously crunchy while the inside stays soft and gooey, thanks to the peanut butter and jelly surprise inside.
Whenever friends come over, I like to whip up a batch because they’re quick, impressive, and super satisfying. Whether you want something delightful for a weekend brunch or an unexpected dessert for the kids, these uncrustable donuts work beautifully. Plus, the recipe is so straightforward that even if you’re new to frying, you’ll find yourself confidently making them in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simplicity Meets Delicious: Uses store-bought Uncrustables for an easy, no-fuss start.
- Perfect Snack or Treat: Crispy outside and soft inside, great for kids and adults alike.
- Customizable Flavors: Use different Uncrustable varieties to keep things fresh and fun.
- Quick to Make: Ready in just about 20 minutes, perfect for busy days or last-minute guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together in a way that’s both simple and satisfying, letting the sweet and savory flavors shine through. You’ll want to pick your favorite Uncrustables flavors, and for the frying oil, I’ve found that canola or peanut oil works beautifully for that golden crisp.
- Canola oil, peanut oil, or vegetable oil: Choose a neutral oil with a high smoke point for perfect frying results.
- Uncrustables (grape and strawberry): Thawed and ready—mix flavors for a fun variety in each batch.
- Sugar: The classic sweetness that pairs perfectly with cinnamon.
- Ground cinnamon: This adds warm, cozy flavor that makes these donuts unforgettable.
Variations
Feel free to make this Uncrustable Donuts Recipe truly your own. I love swapping out grape and strawberry for seasonal flavors or adding an extra twist to the coating. The possibilities are endless once you get the hang of it.
- Use different Uncrustable fillings: I once tried apple cinnamon and loved how the cozy filling made the donuts taste like fall.
- Change the spice blend: Mix cinnamon with a little nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal flair.
- Sugar-free option: Swap granulated sugar for a sugar substitute to make it a bit lighter but still tasty.
- Add a glaze: Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze after frying for an extra-special treat.
How to Make Uncrustable Donuts Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Oil Just Right
Pour your chosen oil into a large dutch oven and place it over medium heat. You’re aiming for about 375 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit—this is where the magic happens. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers and looks like it’s dancing at the surface. If you don’t have a thermometer, a good trick I use is to drop a small piece of bread in; if it sizzles and browns in under a minute, you’re set.
Step 2: Prep Your Uncrustables
While the oil is heating, get your Uncrustables thawed and unwrap them. I like to use a mix of grape and strawberry from the box for variety. Just have them ready to slide in once the oil’s hot—you want to go fast to keep the frying process smooth.
Step 3: Fry Until Golden and Crispy
Add 3 or 4 sandwiches at a time to the oil – don’t crowd the pot or the oil temperature will drop. Fry each side for less than a minute, flipping carefully with a spider strainer or slotted spoon. You’re aiming for a golden brown color with a bit of crisp. Remove them and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
In a large bowl, whisk together your ground cinnamon and sugar. While the donuts are still warm, gently toss each one in the cinnamon sugar mixture until completely coated. I love how the warm sugar clings just right and gives these donuts that classic bakery feel.
Pro Tips for Making Uncrustable Donuts Recipe
- Oil Temperature Matters: Keeping your oil hot enough ensures a crisp exterior without absorbing too much grease.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Fry in small batches to keep the temperature consistent and get the perfect golden crust.
- Warm Coating Trick: Toss the warm donuts carefully; if they cool too much, the cinnamon sugar won’t stick as well.
- Use a Spider Strainer or Slotted Spoon: Makes flipping and draining safer and easier without splashing hot oil.
How to Serve Uncrustable Donuts Recipe
Garnishes
I love keeping it simple with just cinnamon sugar, but sometimes I sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar or even drizzle a light vanilla glaze on top for extra sweetness. A dusting of crushed nuts or mini chocolate chips can also turn these into a party snack really fast.
Side Dishes
These uncrustable donuts pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fresh fruit salad for a balanced treat. For a brunch spread, I like to serve them alongside bacon and eggs, offering a little sweet and savory contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For birthdays or special get-togethers, you can stack these donuts on a tiered platter like a donut tower and add colorful sprinkles. I once made a “donut sandwich bar” where guests could dip their own with flavored sugars or icing—such a fun activity that everyone enjoyed!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but this keeps the texture fairly intact.
Freezing
You can freeze uncrustable donuts before frying — lay them flat in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready, fry them straight from frozen just add a bit more frying time, and you’ll have fresh-tasting donuts anytime.
Reheating
To reheat, pop leftovers in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes to revive crispness—microwaving can make them soggy. I’ve found the oven method gets that delicate crunch back every time.
FAQs
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Can I use fresh homemade peanut butter sandwiches instead of Uncrustables?
Absolutely! While this recipe was created for convenience with Uncrustables, homemade peanut butter and jelly sandwiches work just as well. Just be sure they’re sealed well and the bread isn’t too thick, so they fry evenly.
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Is it safe to fry Uncrustables?
Yes, as long as you maintain the oil temperature between 375-400°F and don’t overcrowd the pot, frying Uncrustables is safe and quick. Use a deep pot and tools like a spider strainer for easy flipping and removal.
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Can I make this recipe vegan or allergy-friendly?
You can adapt this recipe by selecting vegan or allergy-friendly Uncrustables or homemade versions with safe ingredients. Swap the frying oil to one that suits your dietary needs, like coconut or sunflower oil.
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How do I know when the oil is ready for frying?
Look for shimmering oil with small ripples on the surface. A thermometer reading of 375-400°F is ideal, but if you don’t have one, test with a small bread cube or a droplet of batter—it should bubble and brown quickly.
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Can I use a microwave instead of frying?
This recipe works best fried because that’s what gives the donuts their signature crisp outside. Microwaving won’t create that texture, so if you want an easy alternative, try baking at a high temperature until golden instead.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely love sharing this Uncrustable Donuts Recipe because it feels like a little kitchen magic—turning a simple sandwich into a cozy, nostalgic indulgence. Every time I make it, I’m reminded that sometimes the best recipes come from mixing convenience with creativity. Give it a try, and I bet you’ll find yourself coming back to this one as a go-to for quick treats that deliver big smiles.
PrintUncrustable Donuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Uncrustable Donuts are a fun and easy twist on a classic sandwich. By frying pre-made Uncrustable sandwiches in hot oil until golden and then coating them in a cinnamon sugar mixture, you get a sweet, crispy treat perfect for breakfast or a snack. This recipe uses simple ingredients and a quick frying method to transform everyday items into delightful donuts with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Oil
- ½ gallon canola oil, peanut oil, or vegetable oil
Uncrustable Sandwiches
- 20 Uncrustables, thawed (10 grape flavor, 10 strawberry flavor)
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Add the oil to a dutch oven and set it over medium heat on the stovetop. Wait about five minutes for the oil to heat until it reaches 375-400°F, indicated by shimmering and dancing oil.
- Prepare Uncrustables: While the oil is heating, remove the Uncrustables from their packaging and have them ready for frying.
- Fry the Uncrustables: Carefully add 3-4 Uncrustables at a time into the hot oil. Fry each side for less than a minute, flipping them gently with a spider strainer to ensure both sides are golden brown and crispy.
- Drain Oil: Remove the fried Uncrustables from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar and ground cinnamon until fully combined.
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: While the sandwiches are still warm, roll each one in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated on all sides. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the oil temperature is between 375-400°F for crispiness without excessive greasiness.
- Do not overcrowd the pot; fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and even cooking.
- Use a spider strainer or slotted spoon for safe flipping and removing.
- Serve warm for best taste and texture.
- Leftovers can be reheated in an oven to regain crispiness but are best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg