Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes: A Delicious Upgrade!

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 a quick solution for a hectic morning; they’re a delightful treat that brings smiles all around. Imagine the joy of serving warm, fluffy donut holes that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, all without the guilt of frying. Trust me, this recipe is a game-changer for any busy kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes (Easy & Better Than Fried)

These Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes are a dream come true for anyone short on time but big on flavor. They come together in just 20 minutes, making them perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous snack cravings. Plus, they’re healthier than traditional fried donuts, so you can indulge without the guilt. The warm, cinnamon-sugar coating adds a touch of sweetness that will have your family begging for more!

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 a soft texture.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and adds to the cinnamon-sugar coating.
• Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the donut holes rise, making them fluffy.
• Baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to create a light and airy texture.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds that warm, comforting spice that makes these donut holes irresistible.
• Buttermilk: Provides moisture and a slight tang, making the donut holes tender.
• Large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
• Melted butter: Adds flavor and moisture, giving the donut holes a lovely richness.
• Granulated sugar (for coating): This is what makes them sweet and irresistible after cooking.
• Ground cinnamon (for coating): The finishing touch that gives these donut holes their signature flavor.

Feel free to get creative! You can swap out the buttermilk for regular milk or a dairy-free alternative if needed. And if you want to add a little extra fun, toss in some chocolate chips or a dash of nutmeg for a unique twist. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing!

How to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes (Easy & Better Than Fried)

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. In it, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Whisk them together until they’re well blended. This step is crucial for ensuring your donut holes rise perfectly and have that delightful cinnamon flavor.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, large egg, and melted butter. Make sure everything is mixed well. The buttermilk adds moisture, while the egg binds the ingredients together. This mixture will bring your donut holes to life!

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now, pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This will keep your donut holes light and fluffy, just like they should be!

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. A hot air fryer will give your donut holes that crispy texture without the need for frying.

Step 5: Scoop the Batter

Using a small cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the batter into the air fryer basket. Make sure to leave some space between each scoop. This allows the hot air to circulate around the donut holes, ensuring they cook evenly. Trust me, you don’t want them sticking together!

Step 6: Air Fry the Donut Holes

Air fry the donut holes for about 8-10 minutes or until they turn a lovely golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as air fryers can vary in cooking time. You’ll know they’re done when they look irresistible and smell heavenly!

Step 7: Coat in Cinnamon-Sugar

While the donut holes are still warm, toss them in a bowl filled with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This is where the magic happens! The warm donut holes will soak up that sweet coating, making them even more delicious.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Finally, serve your Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes warm. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but I won’t judge if you sneak one or two before serving! Pair them with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a delightful treat that everyone will love.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; this ensures 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 in temperature.
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the batter.
• Enjoy them fresh, but store leftovers in an airtight container for up to a day.

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: A couple of medium-sized bowls for mixing wet and dry ingredients.
• Whisk: For blending ingredients smoothly; a fork can work in a pinch.
• Cookie Scoop: Perfect for portioning batter; a tablespoon works too!
• Baking Sheet: Optional, for cooling the donut holes after air frying.

Variations of Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes (Easy & Better Than Fried)

• Chocolate Chip Delight: Add a handful of mini chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet surprise in every bite.
• Nutty Twist: Incorporate 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 Up: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal twist.
• Fruity Flavor: Mix in some mashed bananas or applesauce for a fruity version that adds moisture and sweetness.

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Cinnamon-Sugar Donut Holes (Easy & Better Than Fried)

• Pair with Coffee: These donut holes are perfect with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
• Milk Dipping: Serve with a glass of cold milk for a classic combination that kids love.
• Presentation: Arrange them on a colorful plate, dusted with extra cinnamon-sugar for a delightful display.
• Fruit Side: Add fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas for a refreshing contrast.

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 a few hours. Just remember to give it a good stir before scooping and air frying.

How do I store leftover donut holes? If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a day. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture.

Can I use a different type of milk? Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk or a dairy-free alternative. Just add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk to mimic buttermilk’s tanginess.

What if I don’t have an air fryer? No worries! You can bake these donut holes in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes. They won’t be quite as crispy, but they’ll still be delicious!

Can I freeze these donut holes? Yes, you can freeze them! Just let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, pop them in the air fryer for a few minutes to warm them up.

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 becomes one for you too! The joy of watching my family’s faces light up as they bite into these warm, fluffy treats is priceless. They’re not just a dessert; they’re a moment of happiness shared together. Plus, knowing they’re healthier than traditional fried donuts makes indulging feel guilt-free. So, whether it’s a busy morning or a cozy afternoon snack, these donut holes are sure to bring smiles and sweet memories to your kitchen!

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