Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes You Must Try Today!

Name: Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes You Must Try Today!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1 large egg; 2 tbsp melted butter; 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating); 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for coating)

Posted on June 26, 2025

Desserts

Introduction to Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes

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 treat; they’re a quick solution for those hectic mornings or a delightful dessert to impress your loved ones. Imagine the warm, sugary aroma wafting through your kitchen, making everyone’s mouth water. With just a handful of ingredients and a little love, you can create these delightful bites that are sure to bring smiles all around!

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes

These Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes are a game-changer for busy days! They come together in just 20 minutes, making them perfect for a quick breakfast or a sweet snack. The air fryer gives them that golden, crispy exterior while keeping them light and fluffy inside. Plus, the irresistible cinnamon sugar coating adds a touch of magic that will have your family begging for more. Trust me, you’ll love how easy and delicious they are!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes

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 fluffiness.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and adds to the cinnamon sugar coating.
Baking powder: Helps the donut holes rise, giving them that light texture.
Baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to create a tender crumb.
Salt: Enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness.
Ground cinnamon: The star of the show, adding warmth and that classic donut flavor.
Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang, making the donut holes extra tender.
Large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
Melted butter: Provides flavor and moisture, making each bite irresistible.
Additional granulated sugar and ground cinnamon: For coating the warm donut holes, creating that sweet, crunchy exterior.

Feel free to experiment! You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk or a dairy-free alternative if needed. The exact quantities for each ingredient are listed at the bottom of the article for your convenience, ready for printing!

How to Make Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delightful Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of warm, sugary goodness in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Stir them together until well mixed. This step is crucial as it ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed, giving your donut holes that perfect rise.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, large egg, and melted butter. Make sure everything is well combined. The buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang, which makes these donut holes extra tender and delicious!

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, pour the wet ingredients into 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 the way we want them!

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This step is essential for achieving that golden-brown exterior. A hot air fryer will help create that crispy texture we all love without the extra oil.

Step 5: Form the Donut Holes

Using a small cookie scoop, drop dough balls into the air fryer basket. Make sure to leave some space between each ball. This allows the hot air to circulate around them, ensuring even cooking. Trust me, you don’t want them sticking together!

Step 6: Air Fry the Donut Holes

Air fry the donut holes for 8-10 minutes or until they are golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as air fryers can vary in cooking time. You want them to be perfectly cooked, fluffy inside, and crispy outside.

Step 7: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While the donut holes are cooking, mix the additional granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a separate bowl. This sweet coating is what makes these treats irresistible. The warm donut holes will soak up that cinnamon sugar beautifully!

Step 8: Toss in Cinnamon Sugar

Once the donut holes are cooked, toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture while they are still warm. This step is where the magic happens! The sugar will stick to the warm donut holes, creating a sweet, crunchy exterior that’s simply divine.

Tips for Success

Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; it’s key for even cooking.
Check the donut holes a minute or two before the timer goes off to avoid overcooking.
For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
Serve immediately for the best taste; they’re at their peak when warm.
Experiment with different coatings, like powdered sugar or chocolate drizzle!

Equipment Needed

Air fryer: The star of the show! If you don’t have one, an oven can work, but the texture won’t be the same.
Mixing bowls: A couple of medium-sized bowls will do the trick.
Whisk: For mixing wet ingredients; a fork can work in a pinch.
Cookie scoop: Perfect for portioning dough; a tablespoon works too!
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy in your ingredients.

Variations of Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes

Chocolate Chip Donut Holes: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet surprise in every bite.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle a simple maple syrup glaze over the warm donut holes for a delightful twist.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, into the dough 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 Variations: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes

Pair with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast.
Serve alongside fresh fruit for a balanced snack.
Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.
Present on a colorful platter for a festive gathering.
Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch!

FAQs about Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes

Can I make these donut holes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just scoop and air fry when you’re ready for a warm treat!

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

No worries! You can bake these donut holes in a regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes. They won’t be quite as crispy, but they’ll still be delicious!

How do I store leftover donut holes?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back that warm goodness.

Can I freeze these donut holes?

Yes! Once cooled, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be reheated directly from the freezer in the air fryer.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before using!

Final Thoughts

Making Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes is more than just a recipe; it’s a delightful experience that brings joy to both the cook and the family. The warm, sugary aroma fills the kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that invites everyone to gather around. Each bite is a little piece of happiness, perfect for sharing during family breakfasts or cozy afternoons. Plus, knowing they’re healthier than traditional fried donuts makes them even sweeter! So, roll up your sleeves, grab those ingredients, and let the magic happen. Your loved ones will thank you, and you’ll relish every moment of this culinary adventure!