Craving something sweet and easy? You’re in for a treat with these Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes! They’re warm, fluffy, and incredibly simple to make. In this guide, I’ll share step-by-step instructions, tips for perfecting your donut holes, and fun flavor variations. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, you’ll love these delightful bites. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for batter)
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
Measurement Details
For this recipe, I use standard cups and tablespoons. Measuring accurately helps ensure the donut holes turn out perfect. Use a dry measuring cup for flour and sugar. A liquid measuring cup works best for milk.
Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor
You can add a pinch of ground cloves for more spice. You may also swap vanilla extract with almond extract for a different twist. For a richer taste, consider adding a splash of orange zest. These options can take your donut holes to the next level!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Combining Dry Ingredients
Start by gathering your dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Mix until you see no lumps. This step is key for a fluffy donut hole.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
Now, grab another bowl. Here, whisk together 1/2 cup of milk, 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Make sure this mixture is smooth and well combined. This is where your donut holes will get their moisture and flavor.
Forming the Donut Holes
Next, combine the wet and dry mixtures. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry bowl. Stir gently with a spatula until just mixed. Don’t worry about a few lumps. This keeps your donut holes light and airy. Now, lightly grease your hands with oil. Scoop about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Repeat until you shape all the dough.
Preheating the Air Fryer
Before you cook, preheat your air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up for about 5 minutes. This helps the donut holes cook evenly and get that lovely golden color.
Cooking the Donut Holes
Now, place the rolled donut holes in a single layer in your air fryer basket. If needed, cook in batches. This keeps them from overcrowding. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown. Flip them halfway through for even cooking. You want them to be perfectly puffed and warm.
Coating in Cinnamon Sugar
While the donut holes cook, prepare the cinnamon sugar. In a small bowl, mix 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Once the donut holes are done, remove them from the air fryer. Toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture while they are warm. This coating makes them extra delicious!
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Perfect Donut Holes
– Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check your baking powder and spices. Fresh ingredients make a big difference in flavor.
– Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined. A few lumps in the batter are okay. This keeps the donut holes light and airy.
– Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheat for about 5 minutes. This ensures even cooking and that golden-brown color.
– Shape Evenly: Roll the dough into uniform balls. This helps them cook evenly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Crowding the Basket: Avoid placing too many donut holes in at once. Cook them in batches for the best texture.
– Not Flipping: Flip the donut holes halfway through cooking. This helps both sides brown nicely.
– Skipping the Coating: Don’t skip the cinnamon sugar coating. It adds a sweet touch that makes these treats special.
Serving Suggestions for Maximum Enjoyment
– Serve Warm: Enjoy them right after cooking. Warm donut holes taste best!
– Dipping Sauce: Pair with chocolate or caramel sauce. This adds a fun twist and extra flavor.
– Presentation: Place the donut holes in a decorative bowl. A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top makes them look even more inviting.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can easily change the flavor of your donut holes. For a chocolate twist, add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dry mix. This gives a rich chocolate taste. If you love fall flavors, try pumpkin spice. Replace the nutmeg and cinnamon in the batter with 2 teaspoons of pumpkin spice. You can also add a little pumpkin puree for moisture. Both options make delightful treats.
Gluten-Free Substitutions
Want to make these donut holes gluten-free? Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Look for blends that include xanthan gum. This helps keep the texture light and fluffy. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free, too. With this change, everyone can enjoy the treat.
Alternative Coatings
While cinnamon sugar is classic, other coatings can add fun. You can use powdered sugar for a sweet and soft touch. Mix powdered sugar with a splash of vanilla for added flavor. For a unique twist, try a chocolate glaze. Melt chocolate chips with a bit of butter, then dip the warm donut holes. Each coating offers a new way to enjoy these bites!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Donut Holes
To keep your leftover donut holes fresh, place them in an airtight container. They stay tasty for about 1 to 2 days at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, consider the next steps.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your donut holes, preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Place the donut holes in the basket for about 3 to 4 minutes. This warms them up and keeps them crispy. You can also use a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds, but they may lose some crunch.
Freezing Options
You can freeze donut holes for later enjoyment. Allow them to cool completely first. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They can last up to 2 months. To enjoy, reheat them in the air fryer as mentioned above.
FAQs
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour. It makes the donut holes denser. The flavor will change a bit, but it still works. You might want to add a little more liquid to keep the dough moist.
How do I make these without an air fryer?
You can bake these donut holes in a regular oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the donut holes on a greased baking sheet. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Check with a toothpick to see if they are done.
Can I use non-dairy milk for this recipe?
Yes, you can use non-dairy milk like almond, soy, or oat milk. Just make sure it is unsweetened. This will keep the flavor close to the original recipe while making it dairy-free.
How do I know when the donut holes are done cooking?
The donut holes are done when they turn golden brown. You can also check by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, they are ready to enjoy!
You’ve learned how to make tasty air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes. We discussed the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You can even explore fun flavor variations and smart storage options.
These donut holes are fun, easy, and a great treat for everyone. With a little practice, your treat can always be a hit. Enjoy the process and share these delicious bites with friends!
