Craving something sweet and fun? With my Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes Recipe, you’ll create fluffy treats in no time! These donut holes are crispy on the outside and soft inside, coated with a delightful cinnamon sugar blend. I’ll guide you step-by-step, making it easy to impress your friends or indulge yourself. Get ready to whip up a batch that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack!
Ingredients
To make Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes, gather these simple ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the perfect donut holes. The flour gives structure, while the sugar adds sweetness. Baking powder helps them rise, and salt enhances the flavors. Ground cinnamon brings warmth and spice, making these treats irresistible.
Buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang. The egg binds the batter, giving it a nice texture. Unsalted butter adds richness, making each bite soft and flavorful. Finally, the cinnamon sugar coating gives that classic donut taste we all love.
Once you have these ingredients ready, you’re set to create a delicious batch of donut holes that will excite your taste buds.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dry Ingredients
First, grab a large mixing bowl. Add 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/3 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 tablespoon of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they blend well. This step is key for a tasty base.
Mixing the Wet Ingredients
Now, take another bowl. In it, whisk together 1/2 cup of buttermilk, 1 large egg, and 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Make sure it’s smooth with no lumps. This mixture brings moisture and flavor to our donut holes.
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. The batter should be slightly lumpy; don’t overmix! Overmixing can make the donut holes tough, and we want them soft and fluffy.
Air Frying the Donut Holes
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. While it heats, use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form small balls from the donut batter, each about 1 inch in diameter. Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the donut holes in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. Air fry them at 350°F for 8-10 minutes. Check halfway through and shake the basket for even cooking.
Coating the Donut Holes
While the donut holes cook, mix 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon in a bowl. Once the donut holes are golden brown, remove them from the air fryer. Roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture while they are still warm. This gives them a sweet, crunchy exterior that you will love!
Tips & Tricks
Preventing Overmixing
To keep your donut holes soft, avoid overmixing the batter. A lumpy batter helps create a light texture. Stir just until the wet and dry ingredients blend. This simple step makes a big difference in how fluffy your donut holes turn out.
Ensuring Even Cooking
For best results, shake the basket halfway through cooking. This helps the donut holes cook evenly. As they air fry, some may stick to the basket or each other. Shaking ensures they brown nicely all around. It also helps them puff up perfectly.
Achieving Perfectly Coated Donut Holes
Coating your donut holes in cinnamon sugar is key. Once they come out hot, roll them in the mixture right away. This way, the sugar sticks well. For an even coat, use a bowl large enough for rolling. Make sure to coat each hole thoroughly for that sweet, crunchy finish.
Variations
Flavor Add-Ins
You can get creative with flavor add-ins for your donut holes. Here are some ideas:
- Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the wet mix. This gives a sweet and warm flavor.
- Try a pinch of nutmeg for a nice twist. Nutmeg pairs well with cinnamon.
- For a chocolatey treat, mix in some mini chocolate chips. They melt and add a nice surprise.
Glaze Options
If you’re looking for a different coating, consider these glaze options:
- A simple vanilla glaze can be made with powdered sugar and milk. Just mix until smooth and dunk the donut holes.
- An orange glaze adds a bright taste. Use orange juice and powdered sugar for a zesty twist.
- Try a chocolate glaze by melting chocolate chips. Dip the donut holes for a rich flavor.
Health-Conscious Variations
You can make these donut holes healthier with some easy swaps:
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This adds fiber and nutrients.
- Swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar or a sugar substitute. This lowers the calorie count.
- Replace buttermilk with almond milk or low-fat yogurt. These options can cut some fat while keeping the taste.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to make your donut holes unique!
Storage Info
Storing Leftover Donut Holes
To keep your donut holes fresh, place them in an airtight container. They will stay good in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet first. Once they are frozen, put them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
Freshness Tips
To reheat donut holes, use the air fryer. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 3-5 minutes. This method helps restore their soft texture. You can also use a microwave, but be careful; it may make them soggy. If you want to maintain that crispy outside, the air fryer is best. Enjoy your warm, tasty treats!
FAQs
How long do air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes last?
Air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes can last for about 2-3 days when stored in an airtight container. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. They stay fresh for about a month in the freezer. Just make sure to let them cool completely before packing them away.
Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, you can use different types of milk. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute. Mix 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to thicken. You can also use whole milk or almond milk if you prefer.
What should I serve with donut holes?
Donut holes are great on their own, but you can make them even better. Serve them with a side of warm chocolate sauce for dipping. You can also pair them with fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries. A cup of coffee or hot chocolate complements these treats perfectly!
This blog post covered how to make air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes. We discussed the key ingredients, from flour to buttermilk, and went through each step of preparation. I shared tips on texture and cooking time to ensure perfect results. You can even try delicious variations like flavor add-ins or glaze options. Store any leftovers properly to keep them fresh. Making these donut holes is fun and rewarding. I hope you enjoy baking and tasting your creations!
