Indulge your sweet tooth with my easy recipe for Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes. These bite-sized treats are fluffy, warm, and coated in a delightful cinnamon sugar mix. You’ll love how simple they are to make and how quickly they disappear! Get ready to impress friends and family with this tasty dessert that’s made healthier with the air fryer. Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Ingredients
Complete List of Ingredients
To make Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes, you need:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus more for sprinkling)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for coating)
Ingredient Tips and Substitutions
You can use different ingredients if needed. Here are some tips:
– Flour: Whole wheat flour works too, but it may change the texture.
– Sugar: You can swap granulated sugar for brown sugar for a richer taste.
– Milk: Any milk, like almond or oat milk, is fine. Just adjust for taste.
– Butter: Coconut oil is a good plant-based alternative to butter.
– Egg: Use a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan option.
Storage Recommendations for Ingredients
Store your ingredients properly to keep them fresh:
– Flour: Keep it in a cool, dry place. A sealed bag or container works best.
– Sugar: Store in an airtight container to prevent clumping.
– Butter: Refrigerate it, and use within a couple of weeks.
– Milk: Keep it chilled in the fridge and check the expiration date.
By following these tips, you’ll be set for a fun baking adventure!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Before Cooking
To make Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes, start by gathering all your ingredients. You need:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus more for sprinkling)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for coating)
Next, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps the donut holes cook evenly and become nice and fluffy.
Detailed Cooking Steps
1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, 1/2 cup sugar, baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and salt together. Whisk until everything is well combined.
2. In another bowl, combine the milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture. Stir gently until combined. It’s alright if the batter is a bit lumpy; too much mixing can make the donut holes tough.
4. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form balls about 1 inch in size. Place them on a parchment-lined tray.
5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray. Place the donut holes in a single layer without touching each other.
6. Air fry for 5-6 minutes. They should be golden brown. Insert a toothpick in the center to check if they are done; it should come out clean.
7. While they cook, mix 1/4 cup sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a small bowl for the coating.
8. Once the donut holes are ready, brush them with melted butter. Roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mix until they are fully coated.
9. Repeat the air frying for any remaining dough. Make sure they have enough space in the basket to cook evenly.
Tips for Ensuring Donut Holes are Cooked Perfectly
– Always preheat your air fryer. This step helps create a nice texture.
– Do not overcrowd the basket. Give each donut hole room to expand.
– Keep an eye on cooking time. Every air fryer is different. Adjust as needed.
– Use a toothpick to check for doneness. It should come out clean.
– If you like them extra crispy, air fry for another minute or two, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Air Frying
To make great donut holes, follow these simple tips. First, preheat your air fryer for five minutes. This helps the donut holes cook evenly. Second, use a light spray of non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and keeps them golden.
When forming the dough balls, aim for about one inch in size. This size cooks well without burning. Avoid overcrowding the basket. Give each donut hole space to breathe. This ensures they cook and crisp up nicely.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your donut holes are too dry, you may have overmixed the dough. Mix just until combined. A few lumps are okay. If they burn, lower the cooking time. Check them at five minutes. You want a light golden brown color.
If they stick to the basket, try using parchment paper next time. Lightly spray it with non-stick spray for best results. If they come out too soggy, they may need more air circulation. Make sure to not overcrowd them in the basket.
Enhancing Flavor and Texture
To amp up flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the dough. It pairs nicely with cinnamon. You can also use brown sugar instead of white sugar for a richer taste. For a fun twist, add mini chocolate chips to the dough.
To add more texture, sprinkle some crushed nuts on top after coating them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. You can also experiment with different spices. Cardamom or ginger can add a unique flair. Enjoy your delicious creations!
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can have fun with flavors in your donut holes. Here are some tasty ideas:
– Chocolate: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dry mix. This gives a rich taste.
– Pumpkin Spice: Swap out some flour for pumpkin puree. Add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice too.
– Lemon Zest: Mix in 1 tablespoon of lemon zest for a fresh twist. It brightens the flavor.
These simple changes make your donut holes unique and fun to eat!
Gluten-Free Alternatives
If you need gluten-free options, try using gluten-free flour. Brands like almond flour or coconut flour work well. You may need to adjust the liquid a bit. Start with the same amount of milk, then add more if needed. Check the texture of the dough. It should be soft but not sticky.
Healthy Substitutions
Want a healthier option? You can use applesauce instead of butter. Replace half the butter with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce. This keeps the donut holes moist and cuts down on fat. You can also use less sugar. Try reducing the granulated sugar by half. This makes them less sweet but still tasty.
These variations let you enjoy Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes in many ways.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Donut Holes
To keep your donut holes fresh, place them in an airtight container. This helps them stay soft and tasty. You can store them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, try freezing them.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze donut holes, first let them cool completely. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about one hour. Once they are firm, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Be sure to remove as much air as you can. They will stay good for up to three months.
Reheating Tips
To reheat donut holes, you can use your air fryer or oven. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the donut holes inside for about 3-4 minutes. They will warm up nicely and regain their soft texture. If using the oven, place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes at the same temperature. Enjoy them warm for the best taste!
FAQs
Can I make these donut holes without an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake these donut holes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the dough as described. Then, place the dough balls on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 10-12 minutes. Check for a golden color, and use a toothpick to ensure they are done. Baking will create a slightly different texture, but they will still taste great.
How do I know when the donut holes are done?
You can tell the donut holes are done when they are golden brown. Insert a toothpick into the center of one. If it comes out clean, they are ready. The outside should feel firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them as they cook for the best results.
What can I serve with Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes?
These donut holes pair well with many treats. You can serve them with coffee or tea for a lovely breakfast. Try adding a side of chocolate sauce or caramel for dipping. They also taste great with fresh fruit like berries. Get creative with your favorite toppings!
In this post, we covered how to make air fryer donut holes. You learned the ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for perfect results. We also shared variations and storage tips to keep them fresh.
These donut holes are a fun treat to enjoy. Try different flavors and make them your own. Practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment. Enjoy your tasty creation!
