Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes Soft and Sweet Treat

December 6, 2025June 16, 2025 by Hannah

If you’re craving a sweet treat that’s soft, fluffy, and coated in cinnamon sugar, you’re in for a delight! Cinnamon sugar donut holes are easy to make at home. With simple ingredients and clear steps, you’ll soon have a batch of these tasty bites ready for sharing—or keeping all to yourself! Let’s dive into the fun of making these warm, delightful snacks that will brighten any day.

Why I Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and quick, making it perfect for any skill level; anyone can whip up these delicious treats in no time!
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a warm, comforting flavor that is hard to resist, making these donut holes a favorite for everyone!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy brunch, a festive gathering, or a casual snack, these donut holes are versatile and sure to please any crowd!
Fun to Make: Frying donut holes is a fun and interactive cooking experience, perfect for involving friends or family in the kitchen!

Ingredients

List of Primary Ingredients

To make the best cinnamon sugar donut holes, gather these key ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for coating)

– 2 teaspoons baking powder

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

– 1/2 cup milk

– 1 large egg

– 2 tablespoons melted butter

– Oil for frying

These ingredients create a soft and sweet base for your donut holes.

Optional Ingredients for Variation

You can add a twist to your donut holes with some optional ingredients:

– Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) for extra flavor

– Chocolate chips (1/2 cup) for a sweet surprise

– Orange zest (1 teaspoon) for a citrusy touch

– Nutmeg or cardamom (1/4 teaspoon) for warmth

These variations can change the taste and make your donut holes unique.

Equipment Needed for Preparation

To prepare these delicious treats, you will need a few basic tools:

– Large mixing bowl for dry ingredients

– Medium bowl for wet ingredients

– Slotted spoon for frying

– Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pan for frying

– Cookie scoop or tablespoon for portioning batter

– Paper towels for draining excess oil

Having the right tools helps make the process smooth and easy.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Dry Ingredients

First, grab a large mixing bowl. Add 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Next, mix in 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they blend well. This mix gives your donut holes a great flavor base.

Mixing Wet Ingredients

In another medium bowl, pour in 1/2 cup of milk. Crack in 1 large egg and add 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Whisk these together until the mixture is smooth. This step is key to making your donut holes soft and tender.

Combining Ingredients and Preparing for Frying

Now, slowly add the wet mix to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Don’t worry if the batter looks a bit lumpy; that’s okay! It helps keep the donut holes light. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the frying oil.

Frying the Donut Holes

Heat oil in a deep fryer or a heavy pan to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there’s enough oil for the donut holes to float. Using a small cookie scoop, take about 1 tablespoon of batter. Carefully drop it into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid crowding. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed.

Coating in Cinnamon Sugar

Once fried, use a slotted spoon to lift the donut holes out of the oil. Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. In a medium bowl, mix 1/2 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. While the donut holes are still warm, roll them in this cinnamon sugar mixture. Make sure they are fully coated and glistening. Enjoy the sweet, warm goodness!

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring Perfect Texture

To make soft and fluffy donut holes, avoid overmixing the batter. Mix until just combined. A little lumpiness is okay. This keeps the donut holes light. You can also use room temperature milk and egg for a smoother mix. The warmth helps the batter come together nicely.

Best Practices for Frying

Heat your oil to 350°F (175°C) for the best frying. If the oil is too hot, the outside cooks fast, while the inside stays raw. If it’s too cool, the donut holes absorb too much oil. Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady. Use a slotted spoon to turn them gently. This helps them cook evenly.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas

Serve your donut holes warm for the best taste. You can stack them in a rustic basket lined with parchment paper. A light dusting of extra cinnamon sugar on top adds a nice touch. For a fun twist, serve them with a sweet dip like chocolate or vanilla glaze.

Pro Tips

Perfect Temperature: Ensure your oil is at 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying. If the oil is too cool, the donut holes will absorb excess oil; if too hot, they will cook too quickly on the outside while remaining raw inside.
Donut Hole Size: Use a cookie scoop for consistent sizing. This helps ensure even cooking and uniform appearance, making your donut holes more appealing.
Coating While Warm: Roll the donut holes in cinnamon sugar as soon as they come out of the oil. This allows the sugar to adhere better and creates a deliciously sweet crust.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat briefly in the oven for a fresh taste.

Variations

Flavored Cinnamon Sugar Coating Options

You can change up the cinnamon sugar by adding fun flavors. Here are a few ideas:

– Vanilla: Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a sweet twist.

– Chocolate: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the sugar.

– Pumpkin Spice: Blend in 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice for a fall favorite.

Each of these variations gives your donut holes a unique taste that excites your palate.

Add-ins for Enhanced Flavor

Add-ins can make your donut holes even more special. Consider these options:

– Chocolate Chips: Fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips for a rich treat.

– Nuts: Add 1/4 cup of finely chopped nuts for a crunchy texture.

– Dried Fruit: Toss in 1/4 cup of dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for sweetness.

These add-ins will elevate the flavor and make each bite more enjoyable.

Baking Alternatives for Healthier Options

If you want a lighter version, try baking instead of frying. Here’s how:

– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

– Use a muffin tin and spray it with cooking oil.

– Fill each cup with the batter about halfway.

– Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden.

Baked donut holes are still tasty, and this method cuts down on oil and fat. You can enjoy a delicious treat with less guilt!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftover Donut Holes

To keep your leftover donut holes fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps maintain their softness. You can leave them at room temperature for up to two days. If you have more than you can eat, refrigeration is an option. Just know that cold air can make them a bit dry.

Reheating Tips for Best Results

When you’re ready to enjoy your donut holes again, reheating is key. The microwave is quick, but it may make them chewy. Instead, try using an oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the donut holes on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps them warm and brings back their soft texture.

Freezing for Long-Term Storage

For longer storage, freezing works well. Place the cooled donut holes in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as you can to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want some, just thaw them in the fridge, then reheat as mentioned above. This way, you can enjoy these sweet treats anytime!

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour. It adds a nutty flavor and more fiber. The donut holes may be denser than those made with all-purpose flour. To keep them light, try mixing half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour. This mix helps with texture.

What’s the best oil for frying donut holes?

The best oils for frying are canola or vegetable oil. They have high smoke points, which means they can handle the heat. Peanut oil is also great if you want a richer flavor. Avoid oils with strong tastes, as they can overpower the donuts.

How can I make these donut holes gluten-free?

To make gluten-free donut holes, use a gluten-free flour blend. Look for blends that contain xantham gum. This ingredient helps with texture, making the donut holes soft. Always check labels to ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

What’s the best way to ensure even cooking when frying?

To ensure even cooking, heat the oil to the right temperature, about 350°F. Use a thermometer for accuracy. Fry in small batches to avoid crowding. If too many donut holes are in the oil, the temperature drops, leading to uneven cooking. Keep an eye on them, flipping as needed.

In this post, we explored how to make delicious donut holes. We covered every step, from preparing ingredients to frying and coating them in cinnamon sugar. You learned key tips for texture, frying, and even serving ideas. Plus, we shared fun variations, storage options, and answered common questions.

Enjoying fresh donut holes at home is easy and fun. With practice, you will nail it every time! Now, it’s your turn to create these tasty treats and share them with friends and famil

$To make the best cinnamon sugar donut holes, gather these key ingredients: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for coating) - 2 teaspoons baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg - 1/2 cup milk - 1 large egg - 2 tablespoons melted butter - Oil for frying These ingredients create a soft and sweet base for your donut holes. You can add a twist to your donut holes with some optional ingredients: - Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) for extra flavor - Chocolate chips (1/2 cup) for a sweet surprise - Orange zest (1 teaspoon) for a citrusy touch - Nutmeg or cardamom (1/4 teaspoon) for warmth These variations can change the taste and make your donut holes unique. To prepare these delicious treats, you will need a few basic tools: - Large mixing bowl for dry ingredients - Medium bowl for wet ingredients - Slotted spoon for frying - Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pan for frying - Cookie scoop or tablespoon for portioning batter - Paper towels for draining excess oil Having the right tools helps make the process smooth and easy. {{ingredient_image_2}} First, grab a large mixing bowl. Add 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Next, mix in 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they blend well. This mix gives your donut holes a great flavor base. In another medium bowl, pour in 1/2 cup of milk. Crack in 1 large egg and add 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Whisk these together until the mixture is smooth. This step is key to making your donut holes soft and tender. Now, slowly add the wet mix to the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Don't worry if the batter looks a bit lumpy; that’s okay! It helps keep the donut holes light. Set this bowl aside while you prepare the frying oil. Heat oil in a deep fryer or a heavy pan to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there’s enough oil for the donut holes to float. Using a small cookie scoop, take about 1 tablespoon of batter. Carefully drop it into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid crowding. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed. Once fried, use a slotted spoon to lift the donut holes out of the oil. Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. In a medium bowl, mix 1/2 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. While the donut holes are still warm, roll them in this cinnamon sugar mixture. Make sure they are fully coated and glistening. Enjoy the sweet, warm goodness! To make soft and fluffy donut holes, avoid overmixing the batter. Mix until just combined. A little lumpiness is okay. This keeps the donut holes light. You can also use room temperature milk and egg for a smoother mix. The warmth helps the batter come together nicely. Heat your oil to 350°F (175°C) for the best frying. If the oil is too hot, the outside cooks fast, while the inside stays raw. If it's too cool, the donut holes absorb too much oil. Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady. Use a slotted spoon to turn them gently. This helps them cook evenly. Serve your donut holes warm for the best taste. You can stack them in a rustic basket lined with parchment paper. A light dusting of extra cinnamon sugar on top adds a nice touch. For a fun twist, serve them with a sweet dip like chocolate or vanilla glaze. Pro Tips Perfect Temperature: Ensure your oil is at 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying. If the oil is too cool, the donut holes will absorb excess oil; if too hot, they will cook too quickly on the outside while remaining raw inside. Donut Hole Size: Use a cookie scoop for consistent sizing. This helps ensure even cooking and uniform appearance, making your donut holes more appealing. Coating While Warm: Roll the donut holes in cinnamon sugar as soon as they come out of the oil. This allows the sugar to adhere better and creates a deliciously sweet crust. Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat briefly in the oven for a fresh taste. {{image_4}} You can change up the cinnamon sugar by adding fun flavors. Here are a few ideas: - Vanilla: Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a sweet twist. - Chocolate: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the sugar. - Pumpkin Spice: Blend in 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice for a fall favorite. Each of these variations gives your donut holes a unique taste that excites your palate. Add-ins can make your donut holes even more special. Consider these options: - Chocolate Chips: Fold in 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips for a rich treat. - Nuts: Add 1/4 cup of finely chopped nuts for a crunchy texture. - Dried Fruit: Toss in 1/4 cup of dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for sweetness. These add-ins will elevate the flavor and make each bite more enjoyable. If you want a lighter version, try baking instead of frying. Here’s how: - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - Use a muffin tin and spray it with cooking oil. - Fill each cup with the batter about halfway. - Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden. Baked donut holes are still tasty, and this method cuts down on oil and fat. You can enjoy a delicious treat with less guilt! To keep your leftover donut holes fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps maintain their softness. You can leave them at room temperature for up to two days. If you have more than you can eat, refrigeration is an option. Just know that cold air can make them a bit dry. When you're ready to enjoy your donut holes again, reheating is key. The microwave is quick, but it may make them chewy. Instead, try using an oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the donut holes on a baking sheet for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps them warm and brings back their soft texture. For longer storage, freezing works well. Place the cooled donut holes in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as you can to prevent freezer burn. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want some, just thaw them in the fridge, then reheat as mentioned above. This way, you can enjoy these sweet treats anytime! Yes, you can use whole wheat flour. It adds a nutty flavor and more fiber. The donut holes may be denser than those made with all-purpose flour. To keep them light, try mixing half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour. This mix helps with texture. The best oils for frying are canola or vegetable oil. They have high smoke points, which means they can handle the heat. Peanut oil is also great if you want a richer flavor. Avoid oils with strong tastes, as they can overpower the donuts. To make gluten-free donut holes, use a gluten-free flour blend. Look for blends that contain xantham gum. This ingredient helps with texture, making the donut holes soft. Always check labels to ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well. To ensure even cooking, heat the oil to the right temperature, about 350°F. Use a thermometer for accuracy. Fry in small batches to avoid crowding. If too many donut holes are in the oil, the temperature drops, leading to uneven cooking. Keep an eye on them, flipping as needed. In this post, we explored how to make delicious donut holes. We covered every step, from preparing ingredients to frying and coating them in cinnamon sugar. You learned key tips for texture, frying, and even serving ideas. Plus, we shared fun variations, storage options, and answered common questions. Enjoying fresh donut holes at home is easy and fun. With practice, you will nail it every time! Now, it’s your turn to create these tasty treats and share them with friends and family.$