Craving a sweet treat that’s quick and easy? You’re in the right spot! Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes are the perfect snack for any time of day. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have warm, fluffy bites ready in no time. Let’s dive into this fun recipe! You’ll impress yourself and anyone you share with, all while enjoying a deliciously sweet experience. Happy cooking!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
To make these tasty donut holes, gather these items:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus extra for topping)
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Ingredients Needed for the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
For the sweet topping, you will need:
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
Substitutions for Key Ingredients
If you need to substitute, here are some ideas:
– All-purpose flour: Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
– Buttermilk: Mix 1/2 cup milk with 1/2 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice to make a quick buttermilk substitute.
– Granulated sugar: You can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute.
– Egg: Use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce for an egg-free option.
These simple ingredients make it easy to whip up delicious donut holes in your air fryer. Enjoy experimenting with the flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Instructions for Preparing the Dough
To start, gather your ingredients. In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients. Combine:
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Stir until everything blends well. Now, pour the wet mix into the dry mix. Gently combine them. Make sure not to overmix. A few lumps are just fine.
Air Fryer Preheating Process
While your dough rests, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for even cooking. While it heats, prepare your scoop or spoon for shaping the donut holes. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray. This helps the donut holes release easily once cooked.
Cooking the Donut Holes in the Air Fryer
Next, scoop small portions of the dough. Shape them into balls, about 1 inch wide. Place them in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one. Cook the donut holes for 8-10 minutes. They should turn golden brown. Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean. You may need to work in batches depending on your air fryer size.
While they cook, mix together 1/4 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a bowl. Once the donut holes are ready, let them cool for a few minutes. Toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until well coated. Enjoy the warm, sweet flavor of your air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes!
Tips & Tricks
Tips for Achieving Perfectly Round Donut Holes
To make your donut holes round, use a small cookie scoop. This tool helps you grab equal amounts of dough. Gently roll each scoop in your hands to form a ball. Avoid pressing too hard; the dough must stay light and airy.
Recommended Air Fryer Settings for Optimal Cooking
Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This temperature gives you a nice golden color. Cook the donut holes for 8 to 10 minutes. Check them at 8 minutes; they should look golden and fluffy. Always use a toothpick to check if they are done. If it comes out clean, they are ready!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Donut Holes
One mistake is overmixing the batter. This can lead to tough donut holes. Mix until just combined, and don’t worry about lumps. Another mistake is overcrowding the air fryer. Leave space between each donut hole so air can circulate. Lastly, don’t skip the cinnamon-sugar coating. It adds the perfect sweet touch!
Variations
Flavor Variations for Donut Holes
You can easily change the flavor of your donut holes. Here are some ideas:
– Chocolate Chip: Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet twist.
– Lemon Zest: Mix in 1 tablespoon of lemon zest for a bright, fresh taste.
– Pumpkin Spice: Replace some flour with 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree and add pumpkin pie spice.
– Nutmeg: Swap out some cinnamon for nutmeg for a warm, spicy flavor.
Experimenting with these variations can make each batch unique and exciting!
Alternative Coatings and Toppings
While cinnamon sugar is classic, you can try different coatings and toppings:
– Chocolate Glaze: Dip the warm donut holes in melted chocolate for a rich treat.
– Powdered Sugar: Roll the donut holes in powdered sugar for a sweet, fluffy finish.
– Maple Syrup: Drizzle warm donut holes with maple syrup for a breakfast twist.
– Sprinkles: Add colorful sprinkles on top of any glaze for a fun touch.
These options can change up your donut holes and make them perfect for any occasion!
Gluten-Free Version of Air Fryer Donut Holes
Making gluten-free donut holes is simple. Here’s how:
– Flour Swap: Use 1 cup of gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour. Make sure it includes xanthan gum for binding.
– Baking Powder: Confirm that your baking powder is gluten-free.
– Check Ingredients: Ensure all other ingredients, like vanilla extract and buttermilk, are gluten-free.
This way, everyone can enjoy these tasty treats without worry!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Donut Holes
To store leftover donut holes, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for up to three days. If you want them to last longer, consider freezing them.
Best Practices for Reheating Donut Holes
To reheat donut holes, use your air fryer. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the donut holes in the basket for about 3-5 minutes. This method keeps them warm and crispy, just like fresh.
Freezing Tips for Donut Holes
To freeze donut holes, first, let them cool. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, about an hour. After that, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When you want to enjoy them, just reheat as mentioned above.
FAQs
Can I make these donut holes without an air fryer?
Yes, you can make these donut holes in a regular oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Shape the donut hole batter as usual and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them. They should be golden brown and a toothpick should come out clean.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute. Mix 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. This will give you a similar tangy flavor and acidity needed for the recipe.
How do I know when the donut holes are done cooking?
Check for a golden brown color on the donut holes. Insert a toothpick into the center of one. If it comes out clean, they are done. If there is batter on the toothpick, cook them for another minute or two.
In this post, we covered how to make Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes. You learned about the ingredients, easy steps, and tips for perfect results. I shared variations, storage tips, and answered common questions. Making these tasty treats is simple and fun. You can customize them to fit your taste. Enjoy your homemade donut holes fresh, or store them for later. With practice, you’ll master this recipe quickly and amaze your friends and family. Happy cooking!
