Introduction to Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes (Easy & Better Than Fried)
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something delicious for my family. That’s why I absolutely adore these Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes! They’re not just easy to make; they’re also a delightful treat that feels indulgent without the guilt of frying. Imagine the joy on your loved ones’ faces as they bite into these warm, fluffy bites of goodness. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, this recipe is a quick solution for those hectic days when you want to impress without the stress!
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes (Easy & Better Than Fried)
These Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes are a game changer for busy families! They come together in just 20 minutes, making them perfect for those mornings when you need a quick breakfast. Plus, they’re lighter than traditional fried donuts, so you can indulge without the heavy feeling afterward. The warm, cinnamon-sugar coating adds a touch of sweetness that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, you’ll love how easy and delicious they are!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes (Easy & Better Than Fried)
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: The base of our donut holes, providing structure and fluffiness.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and adds to the cinnamon-sugar coating.
- Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the donut holes rise, making them light and airy.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds that warm, comforting spice that makes these treats irresistible.
- Milk: Moistens the batter, contributing to a tender texture. You can use any milk you prefer, including almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
- Melted butter: Brings a lovely flavor and moisture to the donut holes. You can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Granulated sugar (for coating): This is the second dose of sugar that gives the donut holes their sweet, crunchy exterior.
- Ground cinnamon (for coating): Enhances the flavor of the sugar coating, making each bite a cinnamon delight.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find a printable version of the recipe. Happy cooking!
How to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes (Easy & Better Than Fried)
Making these Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of warm, fluffy treats in no time. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. In it, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Whisk them together until they’re well blended. This step is crucial because it ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed, helping your donut holes rise beautifully.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, large egg, and melted butter. Make sure the butter isn’t too hot; you don’t want to scramble the egg! This mixture will add moisture and richness to your donut holes, making them extra delicious.
Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Now, pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently mix them together until just combined. Don’t overmix! A few lumps are perfectly fine. This will keep your donut holes light and fluffy, just the way we like them.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
While you’re mixing, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential for achieving that golden-brown exterior. If you skip this, your donut holes might not cook evenly, and we definitely want them to be perfectly cooked!
Step 5: Prepare the Donut Holes
Using a small cookie scoop, drop the batter into the air fryer basket. Make sure to leave some space between each donut hole. This allows the hot air to circulate, ensuring they cook evenly. Remember, overcrowding is a no-no!
Step 6: Air Fry the Donut Holes
Now it’s time to air fry! Cook the donut holes for about 8-10 minutes or until they’re golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as air fryers can vary in cooking time. You want them to be perfectly puffed and lightly browned.
Step 7: Coat in Cinnamon-Sugar
Once your donut holes are cooked, remove them from the air fryer and toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture while they’re still warm. This step is where the magic happens! The warm donut holes will soak up that sweet, cinnamon goodness, making each bite irresistible.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; it’s key for even cooking.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform donut holes; they’ll cook more evenly.
- Check for doneness a minute early; air fryers can vary.
- Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
- Experiment with different spices in the coating for a fun twist!
Equipment Needed for Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes (Easy & Better Than Fried)
- Air fryer: The star of the show! If you don’t have one, a conventional oven can work, but the texture won’t be the same.
- Mixing bowls: You’ll need two for combining wet and dry ingredients.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing ingredients smoothly.
- Cookie scoop: For perfectly sized donut holes; a tablespoon works too!
- Spatula: Handy for transferring donut holes to the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Variations of Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes (Easy & Better Than Fried)
- Chocolate Chip Donut Holes: Add mini chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet surprise in every bite.
- Maple Glaze: Drizzle a simple maple syrup glaze over the warm donut holes instead of cinnamon-sugar for a different flavor profile.
- Nutty Delight: Mix in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these donut holes suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Spiced Variations: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes (Easy & Better Than Fried)
- Pair with coffee: These donut holes are perfect with a warm cup of coffee or tea.
- Serve with fruit: Fresh berries or sliced bananas add a refreshing touch.
- Presentation: Arrange them on a colorful plate for a delightful brunch spread.
- Dip options: Consider serving with chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
FAQs about Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes (Easy & Better Than Fried)
Can I make these donut holes ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just remember to give it a good stir before scooping it into the air fryer.
How do I store leftover donut holes? Keep any leftover Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’re best enjoyed warm, so consider reheating them in the air fryer for a few minutes!
Can I freeze these donut holes? Yes, you can freeze them! Once they’re completely cooled, place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop them in the air fryer for a quick reheat.
What can I use instead of milk? If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, almond milk, oat milk, or even coconut milk work beautifully in this recipe. They’ll keep your donut holes moist and delicious!
Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. Just keep in mind that the texture may be a bit denser, but they’ll still taste fantastic!
Final Thoughts on Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes (Easy & Better Than Fried)
Making these Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes has been a delightful journey for me, and I hope it will be for you too! The joy of watching my family savor each warm, fluffy bite is truly priceless. These little treats are not just about satisfying a sweet tooth; they’re about creating memories together. Whether it’s a busy morning or a cozy afternoon snack, these donut holes bring a sprinkle of happiness to our day. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of these easy, better-than-fried delights fill your home with warmth!
Print
Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes: Deliciously Easy!
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 donut holes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes are a delicious and easy treat that are better than traditional fried donuts.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Using a small cookie scoop, drop the batter into the air fryer basket, leaving space between each donut hole.
- Air fry for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
- In a separate bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon for coating.
- Once the donut holes are cooked, toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture while they are still warm.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket.
- These donut holes are best served warm.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut hole
- Calories: 80
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg