Are you craving a sweet treat that’s simple and fun to make? Dive into my Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes Air Fryer Delight Recipe! These fluffy bites are perfect for breakfast or a snack. With just a few ingredients and your air fryer, you can whip up a batch in no time. Let’s get started, and soon you’ll be savoring warm, cinnamon-dusted goodness right at home!
Ingredients
Here are the key ingredients you will need for the perfect cinnamon sugar donut holes:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for rolling)
Each ingredient plays a role in making these donut holes soft and tasty. The flour gives structure, while applesauce adds moisture. Baking powder and baking soda help them rise. Ground cinnamon gives that warm, cozy flavor we all love.
When you mix the sugar for rolling, the extra sweetness pairs nicely with the cinnamon. It creates a delightful crunch. Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best taste. These donut holes are easy to make and perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
– Mixing dry ingredients
Start by grabbing a large bowl. Combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Stir well to mix everything together.
– Whisking wet ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Make sure this is well combined and smooth.
– Combining wet and dry mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined. The dough will be thick, which is perfect for donut holes.
Shaping the Donut Holes
– Forming the dough balls
Lightly flour your hands to prevent sticking. Scoop out a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a small ball. Place it on a plate or parchment paper. Keep doing this until you shape all the dough.
– Arranging in the air fryer
Place the dough balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Leave some space between them to allow air to circulate. This step is key for even cooking.
Air Frying
– Preheating the air fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This helps the donut holes cook evenly right from the start.
– Cooking time and temperature
Air fry the donut holes for about 8-10 minutes. Look for a slightly golden color and a cooked-through texture. You may need to cook in batches, depending on your air fryer size.
– Checking for doneness
After 8 minutes, check the donut holes. If they look golden and firm, they are done. If not, give them another 1-2 minutes.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Donut Holes
To make the best donut holes, ensure they cook evenly. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer. This allows hot air to flow all around them. If you crowd them, some may not cook well. Use the right air fryer settings. I recommend 350°F (175°C). This temperature gives a nice golden color. Keep an eye on them as they cook for about 8-10 minutes.
Avoid over-mixing the dough. When you stir the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. A few lumps are okay. This keeps the donut holes light and fluffy. If you mix too much, they may become dense.
Serving Suggestions
Donut holes pair well with drinks. Try serving them with coffee or hot chocolate. They also go great with milk or tea. For special occasions, gift them in a cute box. You can add a personal note. Friends and family will love this sweet surprise.
Equipment Recommendations
Not all air fryers are the same. Look for models with even heating. Some popular ones include the Philips Airfryer and the Cosori Air Fryer. They cook evenly and are easy to clean. You’ll also need simple tools for shaping donut holes. Use a cookie scoop or your hands. Lightly flour your hands to make rolling easier. This keeps the dough from sticking.
Variations
Flavor Enhancements
You can make your cinnamon sugar donut holes even more exciting! Here are two great ideas:
– Adding chocolate chips: Mix in about 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips into the dough. This will give your donut holes a rich, sweet surprise inside. The chocolate melts and adds a creamy texture that pairs well with the warm, spiced dough.
– Incorporating fruit puree: Swap out some applesauce for fruit puree, like pureed strawberries or bananas. Use about 1/4 cup to keep the dough moist. This can add a unique flavor twist and a pop of color to your donut holes.
Alternate Coatings
If you want to try something different instead of cinnamon sugar, consider these options:
– Using a glaze instead of cinnamon sugar: Make a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a bit of milk or water. Dip the hot donut holes into the glaze right after frying. This gives them a sweet, shiny finish.
– Experimenting with different spices: Try using nutmeg or pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon. Just mix about 1 tablespoon of your chosen spice with the sugar. This can change the flavor profile and keep things fresh.
Dietary Modifications
You can also adjust this recipe for different diets:
– Gluten-free options: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. This works well and keeps the donut holes soft and fluffy. Check that your baking powder is gluten-free too.
– Vegan adaptations: To make this recipe vegan, swap the applesauce for a flax egg (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). Use a plant-based oil instead of vegetable oil.
Storage Info
Storing Donut Holes
To keep your cinnamon sugar donut holes fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. You can use a plastic or glass container with a tight lid. It’s best to eat them within two days for peak flavor and texture. If you have extra, consider separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
Freezing and Reheating
You can freeze your donut holes for longer storage. Place the cooled donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last up to three months in the freezer.
To reheat, set your air fryer to 300°F (150°C). Heat the frozen donut holes for about 5-7 minutes. This method keeps them warm and soft. You can also microwave them for about 15-20 seconds, but they may not be as crispy. Enjoy your tasty treats anytime!
FAQs
How do I know when the donut holes are done?
You will know the donut holes are done when they turn a light golden color. They should feel firm when you touch them. Use a toothpick to check if they are cooked inside. If it comes out clean, they are ready!
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use different flour. Almond flour or whole wheat flour can work well. However, it may change the texture a bit. Be aware that gluten-free flour may need extra liquid to hold together.
What can I substitute for applesauce?
You can use mashed bananas or yogurt as a substitute for applesauce. Both will add moisture and sweetness. Just keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly.
How long do leftover donut holes last?
Leftover donut holes last about two days at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. You can also refrigerate them for up to a week.
Can I double this recipe for a larger batch?
Yes, you can double the recipe easily. Just make sure to mix the ingredients in a large bowl. You may need to cook them in batches in your air fryer. Enjoy sharing with friends and family!
Now you know how to make tasty air-fried donut holes from scratch. We covered the key ingredients and step-by-step instructions. You learned tips for even cooking and different flavor options. Don’t forget the best storage methods to keep your treats fresh. I hope you feel excited to try these donut holes. With a few simple steps, you can impress friends and family with your baking skills. Enjoy making and sharing these delicious bites!
