Craving something sweet? I’ve got the perfect fix: Cinnamon Sugar Baked Donut Holes! These tasty bites are soft, fluffy, and coated in sweet cinnamon sugar. They’re easy to make and great for any occasion. Whether you want a quick treat or something special for guests, this recipe will impress. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps you need to create these irresistible treats!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires only 10 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for a quick sweet treat any time of the day.
- Deliciously Fluffy: The combination of buttermilk and melted butter ensures these donut holes are soft and fluffy, providing a delightful bite.
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating: The irresistible cinnamon sugar coating adds a sweet crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft interior of the donuts.
- Perfect for Sharing: With about 24 donut holes, this recipe is great for gatherings, ensuring there's plenty to share with friends and family!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make delicious cinnamon sugar baked donut holes, gather these simple ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1/2 teaspoon vinegar added)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For coating: 1/4 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Substitutions and Alternatives
You can swap ingredients based on what you have. Here are some ideas:
- Buttermilk: Use regular milk mixed with vinegar. This works well and still gives you a nice softness.
- Unsalted butter: You can use coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Gluten-free flour: A gluten-free blend can replace all-purpose flour. This makes it friendly for those on a gluten-free diet.
Tips for Choosing Fresh Ingredients
Fresh ingredients matter for the best flavor. Here are some tips:
- Flour: Check for a fresh label. Old flour can taste stale.
- Baking powder and baking soda: Test them by adding a bit to water. If they bubble, they’re good.
- Cinnamon: Smell it! Fresh cinnamon has a strong aroma. If it smells weak, get a new jar.
- Eggs: Check the date on the carton. Fresh eggs work best in baking.
Using fresh ingredients makes your cinnamon sugar baked donut holes taste fantastic!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps Overview
To start, gather your ingredients. You'll need:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1/2 teaspoon vinegar)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For coating: 1/4 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini donut hole pan. This will help the donut holes pop out easily.
Baking Process Explained
In a mixing bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined. In another bowl, mix buttermilk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the wet mix into the dry mix. Gently fold until just combined. A few lumps are okay. Using a piping bag or spoon, fill each donut cavity three-quarters full with batter.
Bake for 10-12 minutes. Check doneness by lightly touching the tops. They should spring back. Insert a toothpick into a donut hole; it should come out clean.
Checking Doneness and Cooling
Once baked, take the donut holes out of the oven. Let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. After that, gently pop them out. While still warm, roll each donut hole in the cinnamon sugar mix. Coat them well for the best flavor.
Serve warm for a delightful treat! You can store any extras in an airtight container for later. Enjoy your tasty cinnamon sugar baked donut holes!
Tips & Tricks
Common Baking Mistakes to Avoid
Baking can be tricky. Here are some mistakes to watch for:
- Overmixing the batter: This can make your donut holes tough. Mix just until combined.
- Not measuring ingredients correctly: Use the correct measuring cups. Too much flour can ruin the texture.
- Skipping the preheat: Preheating your oven helps the donut holes rise properly. Always set the oven first.
- Using a cold pan: Grease your pan and let it warm up. This helps the donut holes release easily.
Best Practices for Fluffy Donut Holes
Fluffy donut holes are the goal. Follow these tips for the best texture:
- Use fresh ingredients: Check your baking powder and baking soda. Fresh ones work best.
- Room temperature eggs: Bring eggs to room temperature. This helps the batter mix better.
- Don’t overfill the pan: Fill each cavity about 3/4 full. This allows room for rising.
- Check the baking time: Keep an eye on them. Bake until they spring back when touched.
Enhancing Flavor and Texture
Want to take your donut holes to the next level? Try these ideas:
- Add spices: Mix in nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth. A pinch can change the flavor.
- Use flavored extracts: Swap vanilla for almond or orange extract. This gives a unique twist.
- Incorporate zest: Add lemon or orange zest for a fresh burst. It brightens the taste.
- Experiment with coatings: Try chocolate or powdered sugar instead of cinnamon sugar. Each offers a new taste.
These tips will help you create the most delightful cinnamon sugar baked donut holes. Enjoy the process and the tasty treats!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for optimal rising. Old leavening agents can lead to dense donut holes.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined. Overmixing can result in tough donut holes, so a few lumps are okay!
- Cooling Time: Allow the donut holes to cool slightly in the pan before removing them. This helps them set and keeps them from breaking apart.
- Customize Your Coating: Feel free to experiment with different coatings, like powdered sugar or chocolate glaze, for a unique twist on the classic cinnamon sugar!
Variations
Flavor Variations (Chocolate, Pumpkin Spice)
You can play with flavors in these donut holes. For a chocolate twist, swap out 1/4 cup of flour for cocoa powder. This change will add a rich taste. Mix in chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
If you love fall flavors, try pumpkin spice. Replace half of the buttermilk with pure pumpkin. Add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the dry mix. This will give your donut holes a cozy, spicy flavor.
Gluten-Free Adaptation
If you're gluten-free, use a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour mix. This type of flour works well in most recipes. Check the label to ensure it has xanthan gum. This ingredient helps bind the dough together.
Make sure to adjust the baking time. Gluten-free donut holes may need a few extra minutes. Keep an eye on them. They should spring back when touched.
Vegan Options
You can easily make these donut holes vegan. Use plant-based milk instead of buttermilk. Almond, soy, or oat milk are great choices. For the egg, use a flaxseed egg. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
Replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. This keeps the rich taste while making them dairy-free. Your vegan donut holes will be just as tasty as the classic version!
Storage Info
Best Ways to Store Donut Holes
To keep your donut holes fresh, place them in an airtight container. This method helps lock in moisture and flavor. Store them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want them to last longer, refrigeration is an option, but it can make them a bit dry.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze these donut holes for up to three months. First, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. Once they are firm, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Tips for Freshness
To reheat your donut holes, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the donut holes on a baking sheet and heat them for about 5-7 minutes. This brings back their soft texture. You can also microwave them for about 10-15 seconds, but this may make them a bit chewy. For the best taste, consider rolling them again in cinnamon sugar after reheating.
FAQs
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can use regular milk. Just add 1/2 teaspoon of vinegar to the milk. This will help create a similar tangy taste. Buttermilk adds moisture and flavor. If you do not have buttermilk, this simple trick works perfectly. Your donut holes will still come out tasty.
How can I make these donut holes healthier?
You can make some easy swaps. Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This adds fiber and nutrients. You can also cut down on sugar. Try using less sugar or a sugar substitute. If you want, replace the melted butter with applesauce. This reduces fat while keeping moisture. These changes still make your donut holes yummy!
What is the best way to reheat leftover donut holes?
To reheat, place donut holes in the oven. Set it to 350°F (175°C). Heat them for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps them soft and warm. You can also use a microwave for quick reheating. Just heat them for 10-15 seconds. However, the microwave may not keep them as fluffy. Enjoy your tasty treat warm again!
In this blog post, we explored the key ingredients and steps to make delicious donut holes. We discussed how to choose fresh items, provided easy preparation steps, and shared tips for baking success. I highlighted common mistakes and offered variations like chocolate and vegan options. Always remember to store your treats well for the best taste later. Baking can be fun and rewarding. With these tips, you can make perfect donut holes every time. Enjoy your tasty creations and share them with friends!
