Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes: 16-Minute Delight

Name: Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes: 16-Minute Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 16 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup milk; 1 large egg; 2 tbsp melted butter; 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating); 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for coating)

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 13, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Oh my goodness, let me just tell you – these air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes are a game changer! I remember the first time I made them; it was a chilly Saturday morning, and I was craving something sweet but didn’t want to fuss around with a deep fryer. I had just gotten my hands on an air fryer, and I thought, why not give it a whirl? Within minutes, the kitchen was filled with the warm, inviting scent of cinnamon and sugar wafting through the air. Talk about a cozy vibe!

These little bites of heaven are fluffy, sweet, and oh-so-easy to whip up. Seriously, from start to finish, you’re looking at just 16 minutes! How amazing is that? You’ll want to keep this recipe handy because they’re perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a late-night treat. And the best part? You get all the joy of donut holes without the guilt of frying them in oil. It’s a win-win! So, grab your ingredients, and let’s dive into making these delightful treats!

Ingredients List

Alright, let’s gather our ingredients! This is where the magic begins. You’ll need a few simple staples that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup all-purpose flour: This is the base of our donut holes, providing that fluffy texture we all love. Make sure to spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
1/4 cup granulated sugar: Just enough to sweeten the dough without overwhelming it. This sugar helps to create that perfect tender crumb.
1 tsp baking powder: This little ingredient is crucial! It gives our donut holes that delightful lift, making them light and airy.
1/4 tsp salt: Don’t skip this! A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon: This adds a warm, cozy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sugar coating. Trust me, it’s a must!
1/2 cup milk: Use any kind you have on hand; this adds moisture to our dough. I love using whole milk for richness, but almond milk works too if you want a dairy-free option!
1 large egg: This binds everything together and adds a bit of richness. Make sure it’s at room temperature for the best results.
2 tbsp melted butter: This gives our donut holes a lovely buttery flavor and helps keep them moist. Just melt it gently and let it cool slightly before adding it to the mix.
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating): This is what makes our donut holes sparkle and adds that irresistible sweetness!
1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for coating): Mixing this with the sugar creates that classic cinnamon sugar coating that’s absolutely divine!

Once you have all these ingredients ready, we can get started on making these delightful treats. It’s going to be so much fun!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes

Alright, let’s get to the fun part! Making these air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes is as easy as pie—well, easier! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of warm, fluffy treats in no time.

Preheat the Air Fryer

First things first, you want to preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures that your donut holes cook evenly and get that lovely golden brown color. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this part! Just set it and let it warm up while you prepare the dough. It’ll only take a few minutes!

Mixing the Dry Ingredients

Now, grab a mixing bowl and combine your dry ingredients. Toss in the 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tsp of baking powder, 1/4 tsp of salt, and 1/4 tsp of ground cinnamon. Whisk them together until they’re well combined. This will help distribute the baking powder and cinnamon evenly, so every bite is bursting with flavor. It’s the little things that make a big difference!

Preparing the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, it’s time to mix our wet ingredients. Whisk together 1/2 cup of milk, 1 large egg, and 2 tbsp of melted butter. Make sure your butter isn’t too hot; you don’t want to scramble the egg! Just give it a good whisk until everything is nicely blended. This mixture will bring moisture and richness to our dough!

Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now comes the fun part! Gently pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. With a spatula or wooden spoon, stir it all together until just combined. You don’t want to overmix here; a few lumps are totally okay! Overmixing can lead to dense donut holes, and we want them fluffy and light!

Forming the Donut Holes

Once your batter is ready, it’s time to shape those donut holes! With your hands, scoop out small portions of the dough and roll them into balls. Aim for about 1 inch in diameter. Don’t worry about making them perfect; a little irregularity adds character! Place these little dough balls into the air fryer basket, leaving some space between them so they have room to rise.

Cooking the Donut Holes

Pop the basket into the preheated air fryer and cook those beauties for about 5-6 minutes. Keep an eye on them towards the end! You want them to be golden brown and fluffy. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly, and you’ll know they’re almost ready!

Coating in Cinnamon Sugar

Once your donut holes are done, take them out and let them cool for just a minute. While they’re still warm, mix 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tbsp of ground cinnamon in a bowl. Roll each donut hole in the cinnamon sugar mixture until they’re fully coated. This is the moment they transform into pure bliss! Serve them warm, and enjoy every sweet bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 16 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a batch of these delightful donut holes in no time! Perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous cravings.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of warm cinnamon and sweet sugar is simply irresistible. Each bite is fluffy, sweet, and bursting with flavor – you won’t be able to stop at just one!
Healthier Option: Unlike traditional frying, these donut holes are made in an air fryer, which means less oil and fewer calories. You can indulge without the guilt!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a sweet treat for guests, these donut holes fit the bill every time.
Easy to Customize: Feel free to get creative! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even a dash of vanilla to the batter for a personal twist.

Tips for Success

Alright, my fellow bakers! Here are some pro tips to ensure your air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes turn out perfectly every single time. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will make all the difference!

Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer

It might be tempting to fit as many donut holes into the basket as possible, but resist that urge! Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking, and nobody wants a half-cooked donut hole, right? Make sure to leave some space between each one, allowing the hot air to circulate freely. This will give you that gorgeous golden brown finish we all crave!

Check for Doneness

As they cook, keep an eye on your donut holes! Cooking times can vary slightly based on your air fryer model, so it’s always a good idea to check them a minute or two before the suggested time. They should be golden and fluffy. If they look a bit pale, give them another minute, but don’t let them get too brown – you want them perfectly cooked, not overdone!

Let Them Cool Slightly Before Coating

This may seem minor, but letting the donut holes cool for just a minute after cooking allows the exterior to set a bit. If you roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture while they’re too hot, the sugar might melt and become sticky instead of forming that lovely coating we all adore. Patience pays off here!

Experiment with Coatings

Feel free to get creative with your toppings! While classic cinnamon sugar is a hit, you can try adding a pinch of nutmeg or even a dash of cocoa powder for a chocolate twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of icing or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can elevate your donut holes to a whole new level!

Store Properly for Freshness

If you have any leftovers (which I doubt, but just in case!), store them in an airtight container. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but they can be kept for a day or two. Reheat them in the air fryer for a minute to regain that lovely warmth and fluffiness before diving back in!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create the best air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes ever! Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made a batch of these delightful air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes, and you have a few leftovers (if that’s even possible!). Here’s how to store them so they stay fresh and delicious for as long as possible.

First off, let them cool completely before storing. This step is crucial because if you store them while they’re still warm, condensation can form inside the container, making them soggy. Nobody wants a soggy donut hole, right?

Once they’re cool, grab an airtight container and place the donut holes inside. You can layer them with parchment paper between the layers to help keep them from sticking together. Seal it up tight and pop it in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 1-2 days. Just remember, the longer they sit, the less fluffy they may become, so it’s best to enjoy them sooner rather than later!

Now, when you’re ready to enjoy those leftover treats, reheating them properly is key. I recommend placing them back in the air fryer for about 1-2 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This will bring back that wonderful warmth and fluffiness we all love! You can also sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar on top right before serving for an added treat. If you don’t have an air fryer handy, a quick zap in the microwave for 10-15 seconds will do the trick too – but be careful not to overdo it, or they might get chewy!

So there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor your air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes a little longer. Happy munching!

FAQ Section

Alright, let’s tackle some questions you might have about these scrumptious air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes! I know you might be wondering about substitutions, variations, or even how to make these little treats your own. So, let’s dive right in!

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Absolutely! Whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier twist. Just keep in mind that it may result in a denser texture, so you might want to adjust the liquid slightly to achieve the right consistency. I recommend using a mix of half whole wheat and half all-purpose for the best results!

What can I substitute for milk?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, almond milk, oat milk, or even soy milk work wonderfully! Just make sure to choose an unsweetened variety to keep the balance of flavors intact. Your donut holes will still turn out fluffy and delicious!

Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?

Oh, definitely! Chocolate chips would be a delightful addition. Just fold in about 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips after combining the wet and dry ingredients. They’ll melt slightly and create little pockets of chocolate goodness in every bite. Yum!

How do I know when my donut holes are done cooking?

Great question! Your donut holes should be golden brown and fluffy when they’re done. You can give them a gentle poke – they should spring back slightly. If they’re still soft and don’t bounce back, pop them back in for an extra minute or two. Trust your nose; that cinnamon-sugar aroma is a good indicator that they’re close!

Can I make these donut holes in advance?

While they’re best fresh, you can definitely make the dough ahead of time! Just cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy, let the dough come to room temperature before shaping and cooking. This way, you can have warm, fresh donut holes with minimal effort!

If you have any more questions or need further tips, don’t hesitate to ask! I’m here to help you make the best air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes ever. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information Section

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional information for these delicious air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes! It’s always good to know what you’re enjoying, right? Here’s the estimated breakdown for two donut holes:

Calories: 150
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 100mg
Carbohydrates: 23g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 2g

These little treats are a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth without going overboard. Enjoying them in moderation makes for a perfect guilt-free indulgence! Remember, the joy of baking and sharing these donut holes is just as important as the numbers. So, grab a couple, enjoy the flavors, and don’t forget to share with friends and family!