Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes Delightful Treat

If you love warm, fluffy donut holes, you’re in for a treat! Today, I’ll show you how to make Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes at home. They’re quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Plus, you’ll enjoy the sweet cinnamon sugar coating. Get ready to satisfy your cravings with this delightful recipe that will make your family smile. Let’s dive into the sweet goodness!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients Required
To make Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes, gather these key 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, beaten
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating)
These ingredients work together to create a soft and fluffy texture. The cinnamon adds warmth and sweetness.
Optional Ingredients for Enhanced Flavor
You can add more flavor with these options:
– Nutmeg for a warm spice twist
– Lemon zest for a fresh, zesty kick
– Chocolate chips for extra sweetness
Adding these can change the taste and make your donut holes unique.
Substitutions for Common Ingredients
If you need alternatives, try these substitutions:
– Substitute almond milk for regular milk.
– Use olive oil for melted butter.
– Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
These options make the recipe flexible and cater to different diets and preferences.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dry Ingredients
Start with a large bowl. Add 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Then, mix in 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Next, add 1 teaspoon of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda. Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisk these ingredients well. This step helps to blend everything and makes the donuts fluffy.
Mixing the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, pour in 1/4 cup of milk. Crack one large egg and beat it before adding it to the milk. Then, add 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until everything is smooth. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your donut holes.
Combining and Forming Dough
Now, slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to gently mix them. Stop mixing once you see no dry flour. The dough should be thick and soft. Dust your hands with flour. Take small parts of the dough, about a tablespoon each. Roll them into balls. Place these dough balls on a parchment-lined plate.
Preheating the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Let it preheat for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the donut holes cook evenly and brown nicely.
Cooking the Donut Holes
Carefully place the dough balls in your air fryer basket. Make sure they are not touching each other. This helps them cook well. Air fry for 5-6 minutes or until golden brown. If your air fryer is small, you may need to cook them in batches.
Coating the Donut Holes
While the donut holes cook, mix 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Once the donut holes are done, take them out promptly. While they are warm, toss them in the cinnamon sugar mix. Make sure each piece is fully coated. Enjoy them warm for the best taste!
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Fluffy Texture
For fluffy donut holes, start with the flour mixture. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This helps air mix in, making the dough light. Use fresh baking powder and soda for the best rise. Always sift the dry ingredients to avoid clumps.
How to Avoid Overmixing
Mix the wet ingredients until smooth, then add to the dry ones. Stir gently until just combined. Overmixing makes the dough tough. You want a thick but soft dough. If you see some flour bits, that’s okay. Just stop mixing when it looks good.
Best Practices for Air Frying
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for even cooking. Space the donut holes in the basket. They should not touch each other. This helps them get a nice, golden brown color. Check them after 5 minutes. If they are not golden, cook for another minute.
Variations
Gluten-Free Donut Holes
You can make gluten-free donut holes using gluten-free flour. This swap keeps the taste and texture light. Just ensure your flour blend includes xanthan gum for the right consistency. Follow the same recipe steps. The donut holes will still taste amazing!
Flavor Variations
Mix things up by adding flavors! You can use chocolate or vanilla to change the taste. For chocolate, add cocoa powder to the dry mix. It adds a rich taste. For vanilla, use more vanilla extract in the wet mix. You can also try almond or lemon extracts for fun twists!
Healthier Alternatives
If you want a healthier treat, reduce the sugar. Use less granulated sugar in the dough and coating. You can also swap some butter for unsweetened applesauce. It keeps the donut holes moist without adding extra fat. Enjoy your sweet treat with a bit less guilt!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Donut Holes
After you enjoy your donut holes, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, place them in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze leftover donut holes for later enjoyment. Allow them to cool completely first. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They will last up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, simply take out the desired amount of donut holes. You can warm them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-4 minutes. This will help restore that lovely crispness. If you prefer, you can use a microwave for about 10-15 seconds, but they may lose some crunch. Enjoy them warm for the best taste!
FAQs
Can I use self-rising flour?
Yes, you can use self-rising flour. Just skip the baking powder and salt. Self-rising flour already has these mixed in. The donut holes will still rise nicely.
How do I know when the donut holes are done?
Check for a golden brown color. The donut holes should also feel firm to the touch. Insert a toothpick; it should come out clean. If it is wet, cook them a bit longer.
Can I make these without an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake them in a regular oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the donut holes on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown.
What can I serve with donut holes?
Serve donut holes with chocolate sauce or caramel for dipping. You can also enjoy them with coffee or milk. They taste great on their own, too!
How long do they last?
Store leftover donut holes in an airtight container. They stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days at room temperature. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
You’ve learned how to make tasty donut holes from scratch. We covered key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You now know the best ways to store leftovers and enjoy different flavors. Making your treat can be easy and fun. With these skills, you can impress friends and family. I hope you enjoy the joy of making these delicious donut holes. Get your ingredients, and start your cooking adventure!
