In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together warm water and yeast. Rest for 5 minutes.
While the water with yeast is resting, plump the raisins in water. To plump them, place the raisins in a microwavable bowl, cover them with water, and microwave for 45 seconds. Allow the raisins to rehydrate for five minutes before draining the liquid. Don't skip this step! To the water and yeast, add in flour, sugar, salt, vegetable oil, cinnamon, and plumped raisins.
Mix on low with the dough hook until the dough starts to come together (about 8 minutes). If you are kneading by hand, knead the dough for about 25 minutes.
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl. Cover with a kitchen towel and let rise for 2 hours or until the dough has nearly doubled in size.
After 2 hours, turn the dough out onto a work surface.
Divide the dough into 12 even pieces (about 3 ounces each).
Working one piece at a time, fold the sides of the dough under to create a dough ball (top should be smooth).
With the seam side down (on an unfloured surface), place your palm on top of the dough (your hand should be slightly cupped around the dough ball).
Push down slightly (but firm and even) on the dough and roll the ball under your palm in a circular motion. Use the cupped sides of your hands to keep the dough centered in your palm. You may have to work the dough for a while, but eventually, it will come together and most of the lines and folds should have incorporated into the dough, forming a smooth dough ball.
Place the dough balls on a baking sheet and cover with a kitchen towel.
Let the dough balls rest for 15 minutes.
After resting for 15 minutes, use your fingers to create a hole in the center of the dough balls, twirling the dough around your fingers until you form about a 2-inch hole.