Craving a sweet treat that’s both easy to make and delicious? You’re in the right place! These Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes are a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt. With simple ingredients and quick steps, you can enjoy warm, fluffy bites rolled in cinnamon sugar. Let’s dive into this fun recipe that’s perfect for any snack time or dessert craving!
Ingredients
Main ingredients for donut holes
To make these donut holes, gather these key ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
These ingredients create a soft and tasty base for your donut holes. The flour gives structure, while the sugar adds sweetness. Baking powder helps them rise, and nutmeg brings a warm flavor.
Additional ingredients for cinnamon sugar coating
For the delicious cinnamon sugar coating, you will need:
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
This mixture makes your donut holes even more tempting. The cinnamon adds warmth and a nice spice that pairs perfectly with the sweet dough.
Substitutions and alternatives
You can easily swap some ingredients if needed:
– Use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free version.
– If you don’t have nutmeg, you can use more cinnamon.
– Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free treat.
These swaps ensure everyone can enjoy these delightful donut holes without missing out on flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the dry ingredients
First, grab a mixing bowl. Add 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Next, add 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Then, mix in 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg. Whisk these ingredients together until they blend well. This mix forms the base for your donut holes.
Mixing the wet ingredients
Now, take another bowl. Pour in 1/4 cup of milk. Crack in 1 large egg. Add 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir everything until smooth. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your donut holes.
Forming and air frying the donut holes
Combine the wet mix with the dry mix slowly. Stir until just combined. It’s okay if the batter is a bit lumpy. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Lightly oil your hands to prevent sticking. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of batter and roll it into a ball. Repeat this step until you have around 12 to 15 donut holes. Place them in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching. Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes. They should turn golden brown and be cooked through.
Coating in cinnamon sugar
While the donut holes cook, mix the remaining 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. When the donut holes are ready, take them out of the air fryer. Let them cool slightly. While they are still warm, roll each donut hole in your cinnamon sugar mix. Make sure they are well coated.
Serving suggestions
Serve the donut holes warm. They are perfect for breakfast or a snack. Pair them with coffee or milk for a delightful treat. You can also add a drizzle of icing for extra sweetness. Enjoy every bite of these tasty air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring perfect texture
To get the best texture for your donut holes, follow some key steps. Use fresh baking powder. This helps them rise well. Be careful not to overmix the batter. A few lumps are fine. Overmixing can make them tough. You want soft, fluffy bites. Also, make sure not to crowd the air fryer. Give them space to cook evenly.
Common mistakes to avoid
Common mistakes can ruin your donut holes. First, avoid skipping the oil on your hands. It helps the dough roll easily. Also, don’t rush the cooling step. If you coat them too soon, the sugar won’t stick. Lastly, check the air fryer temperature. If it’s too hot, they may burn. If too low, they won’t cook through.
Best practices for air frying
For perfect air-fried donut holes, preheat the air fryer. This ensures even cooking. Use parchment paper if your fryer allows it. This helps with cleanup and prevents sticking. Check on them halfway through cooking. You can gently shake the basket for even browning. Finally, coat them in cinnamon sugar while warm. This gives the best flavor and texture.
Variations
Flavor variations
You can easily switch up the flavor of your donut holes. Try adding cocoa powder for chocolate donut holes. Just replace a few tablespoons of flour with cocoa. You can also add a teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty twist. For something fruity, mix in lemon zest or orange zest. These flavors can brighten your treats.
Healthier alternatives
If you want a healthier option, consider using gluten-free flour. Many brands make a 1:1 blend, which works well. You can also swap the sugar for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Use unsweetened applesauce instead of butter for a lower-fat version. These changes can make your donut holes healthier without losing taste.
Different coatings and toppings
Get creative with coatings! Instead of cinnamon sugar, try powdered sugar or a chocolate glaze. For a fun twist, roll the donut holes in crushed nuts or sprinkles. You can even dip them in melted chocolate for a richer treat. Each topping gives a new look and taste to your donut holes.
Storage Info
How to store leftover donut holes
To keep your donut holes fresh, place them in an airtight container. You can stack them but add parchment paper between layers. This helps prevent sticking. Store them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them. Just remember, they might lose some of their fluffy texture in the fridge.
Reheating tips
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating is key. Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Place the donut holes in a single layer. Heat them for about 3-5 minutes. This will bring back their warmth and slight crispness. You can also use a microwave if you need a quick fix, but they might turn soft.
Freezing options
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option! First, let the donut holes cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Make sure to press out any extra air. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when you crave a sweet treat!
FAQs
Can I make these donut holes without an air fryer?
Yes, you can! You can bake them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rolled donut holes on a baking sheet. Bake for about 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they turn golden brown. The texture will be a bit different, but they will still taste great!
What can I substitute for milk in the recipe?
If you need a milk substitute, use almond milk or oat milk. You can also use water if that’s what you have. Each option will work just fine. Just make sure it’s unsweetened if you want to keep the flavor balanced.
How do I know when the donut holes are done?
The donut holes are done when they turn golden brown. You can also check by inserting a toothpick. If it comes out clean, they are ready! They should feel firm but springy when you touch them.
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour. Just remember that different flours may change the texture. If you use almond flour, your donut holes might be denser. Adjust the liquid if needed to get the right batter consistency.
How long do the donut holes stay fresh?
These donut holes stay fresh for about two days at room temperature. For longer storage, place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw before serving!
In this post, we explored how to make delicious donut holes. We covered ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for the best results. You learned about flavor options and healthier swaps. Proper storage and reheating methods help keep them fresh. Remember, air frying gives them a light and fluffy texture. Enjoy your homemade treats today. Embrace your creativity and have fun with different flavors and toppings!
