Ready to treat yourself? These Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes are a game-changer! You’ll love how easy they are to make and how great they taste. With a perfect mix of fluffy dough and sweet cinnamon coating, they’re the ultimate snack for any time of day. Whether you’re new to air frying or a pro, I’ll guide you through every step. Let’s get cooking and make your taste buds dance!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Coating Ingredients
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating)
Each ingredient plays a key role in making these donut holes tasty. The all-purpose flour gives them structure. Granulated sugar adds sweetness, while baking powder and baking soda help them rise. Salt balances the flavors. Ground cinnamon adds that warm, cozy taste we love.
Milk makes the dough soft and moist. The large egg is a binder, helping the dough hold together. Unsalted butter adds richness. Finally, vanilla extract gives a lovely aroma and flavor.
For the coating, we mix more granulated sugar with ground cinnamon. This gives the donut holes a sweet and spicy finish. When you toss the warm donut holes in this mix, they become irresistible. Enjoy each bite of these delightful treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dry Ingredients
First, grab a large mixing bowl. Add the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Use a whisk to mix these dry ingredients well. This step ensures that each ingredient blends evenly. You want a uniform mix for the best flavor in every bite.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
Now, in another bowl, pour in the milk, crack the egg, add melted butter, and pour in the vanilla extract. Mix these wet ingredients until they become smooth. This mixture is crucial as it brings moisture to your donut holes. A smooth texture helps the dough combine better later on.
Forming Donut Holes
Next, it’s time to combine the wet and dry mixtures. Gradually add the wet mix to the dry mix. Stir gently until just combined; don’t overmix. You want the dough to be thick but soft. Lightly flour your hands and take small bits of dough, about one tablespoon each. Roll them into balls. Place these on a parchment-lined plate while you shape them all.
Air Frying Process
Before you start cooking, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Once it’s ready, arrange the donut holes in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are spaced out and not touching. This helps them cook evenly. Air fry for 5-6 minutes. Check if they are golden brown and cooked through. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to cook in batches.
Coating The Donut Holes
While the donut holes cook, prepare the cinnamon sugar mix. In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Once the donut holes are done, take them out carefully. Place them in the bowl with the cinnamon sugar. Toss them gently until every donut hole is well-coated. Enjoy the sweet, warm goodness!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Best Texture
To get the best texture in your donut holes, do not overmix the dough. Overmixing can make your donuts tough. You want a thick yet soft dough. When you mix the wet and dry ingredients, stop as soon as they combine. A few lumps are okay; they will disappear during cooking.
Air Frying Best Practices
When you place the donut holes in your air fryer basket, leave space between them. This helps them cook evenly. If they touch, they might stick together. Every air fryer is different. If your model cooks hot, check the donut holes a minute early. If they are not done, add extra time in small increments.
Serving Suggestions
For the best taste, serve your donut holes warm. The cinnamon sugar coating shines when they are hot. You can pair these treats with milk, coffee, or hot chocolate. For a fun twist, try drizzling melted chocolate on top or adding sprinkles for color. Enjoy the deliciousness!
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can make these donut holes even more fun by adding different spices. Try nutmeg or allspice for a warm flavor. You can also mix in chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra texture. These small changes can create unique tastes. Your family and friends will love the surprises in each bite.
Dietary Adjustments
If you need a gluten-free version, swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. This keeps the texture soft and fluffy. For a vegan option, replace the egg with a flax egg and use a non-dairy butter substitute. These changes let everyone enjoy the treat without worry.
Frosted Options
Want a little extra sweetness? Try a quick glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. Just mix until smooth and drizzle it over the warm donut holes. You can also create fun dips like chocolate or caramel. These toppings add a tasty twist and make the donut holes even more delightful!
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To keep your donut holes fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps maintain their softness. Use a container that fits the number of donut holes you have. If they are stacked, place parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy leftover donut holes, reheat them in the air fryer. Set the temperature to 300°F (150°C). Heat for about 3-4 minutes. This keeps them warm and crispy. Avoid using the microwave, as it makes them chewy.
Freezing Recommendations
You can freeze donut holes before or after cooking. If freezing before cooking, shape them and place them on a tray. Freeze until firm, then transfer to a bag. For cooked donut holes, let them cool completely before freezing in a single layer. To thaw, leave them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for 1-2 hours.
FAQs
Can I make these donut holes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these donut holes ahead of time. Prepare the dough and shape the holes. Then, store them in the fridge for up to one day. When ready, just air fry them fresh. They taste best warm and crispy.
How do I know when the donut holes are done?
You can tell they are done when they turn golden brown. Check by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean. If it comes out wet, they need more time.
What air fryer temperature is best for cooking donut holes?
The best air fryer temperature is 350°F (175°C). This temperature cooks the donut holes evenly without burning them. It gives that perfect golden finish.
Can I use almond flour or coconut flour for this recipe?
You can use almond flour or coconut flour, but the texture may change. Almond flour will make them denser. Coconut flour absorbs more moisture, so adjust the liquid in the recipe.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. Do this gradually, mixing until the dough feels soft but not too wet. Avoid adding too much flour at once.
How long can I keep these donut holes in the fridge?
You can keep these donut holes in the fridge for about two days. Store them in an airtight container. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.
You learned about making delicious air fryer donut holes. We covered key ingredients and their roles. I shared simple steps, tips for the best texture, and fun variations. You can also store and reheat your treats with ease. The best part? You can customize these donut holes to fit your taste. So, gather your ingredients and try this recipe. Enjoy making, sharing, and eating these tasty bites!
