Nothing beats the smell of fresh Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes filling your kitchen on a weekend morning. These bite-sized treats deliver all the warmth and comfort of traditional donuts in perfectly poppable portions that kids absolutely adore and adults secretly devour by the handful.
Ingredients
For the donut holes:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/3 cup whole milk
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil for frying
For the coating:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
Substitution tips: Swap whole milk for buttermilk for extra tang, use coconut oil instead of butter for dairy-free needs, or try oat flour for a heartier texture.
Timing
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 27 minutes
Perfect for busy mornings when you want something special but don’t have hours to spare. Mix the dry ingredients the night before to save even more time.
How to Make It
1. Prepare the Dough
Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, combine milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
2. Heat the Oil
Fill a heavy-bottomed pot with 2 inches of vegetable oil and heat to 375°F. Use a candy thermometer for accuracy – this temperature ensures golden exteriors without raw centers. The oil should bubble gently when you drop in a small piece of dough.
3. Shape the Donut Holes
Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, form the dough into 1-inch balls. Keep them uniform for even cooking. Work quickly but don’t worry about perfection – slightly irregular shapes add homemade charm.
4. Fry to Perfection
Carefully drop 6-8 donut holes into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd. Fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown, turning once halfway through. Listen for that steady sizzle – it means they’re cooking properly. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
5. Add the Cinnamon Sugar Magic
Mix cinnamon and sugar in a shallow bowl. While donut holes are still warm, brush with melted butter and roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture. The warmth helps the coating stick beautifully.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (3 donut holes): Approximately 180 calories, 8g fat, 25g carbohydrates, 3g protein. These treats offer comfort in moderation and make weekend mornings feel extra special.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside fresh coffee or cold milk for the perfect breakfast treat. These cinnamon sugar donut holes pair beautifully with vanilla yogurt and fresh berries, or create a dessert platter with chocolate sauce for dipping.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t overmix the batter – this creates tough, dense donut holes instead of light, fluffy ones. Avoid overcrowding the oil, which drops the temperature and results in greasy treats. Never skip the thermometer – incorrect oil temperature ruins texture. Finally, coat the donut holes while they’re still warm for the best cinnamon sugar adhesion.
Storing Tips
Store leftover donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 3-4 minutes to restore their fresh-made texture.
Conclusion
These homemade cinnamon sugar donut holes bring bakery-quality treats right to your kitchen table. Simple ingredients transform into something magical that creates lasting family memories with every bite.
FAQs
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Use a donut hole pan and bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes. They’ll have a slightly different texture but still taste delicious.
My kids don’t like cinnamon. What other coatings work?
Try powdered sugar, vanilla glaze, or even roll them in crushed graham crackers for a fun twist.
Why are my donut holes greasy?
Your oil temperature is likely too low. Maintain 375°F throughout cooking, and don’t overcrowd the pot.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Fresh dough works best, but you can refrigerate it for up to 4 hours. Let it come to room temperature before frying.
How do I know when they’re done cooking?
They’ll be golden brown all over and sound hollow when tapped. Internal temperature should reach 190°F if you want to be precise.
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Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
Ingredients
Method
- Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, combine milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Fill a heavy-bottomed pot with 2 inches of vegetable oil and heat to 375°F. Use a candy thermometer for accuracy. The oil should bubble gently when you drop in a small piece of dough.
- Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, form the dough into 1-inch balls. Keep them uniform for even cooking.
- Carefully drop 6-8 donut holes into the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd. Fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown, turning once halfway through. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Mix cinnamon and sugar in a shallow bowl. While donut holes are still warm, brush with melted butter and roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
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