Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes Recipe

If you have a soft spot for sweet, comforting treats that bring instant joy, then you are going to adore these Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes. Imagine tiny, pillowy bites with a golden crust dusted in a perfect blend of cinnamon and sugar—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They come together quickly and make a perfect breakfast surprise or a delightful dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you are serving them fresh or making them for a crowd, Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes have that irresistible charm that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes comes down to a handful of simple pantry staples that work together beautifully to create that tender texture, lovely golden color, and cinnamon-sweet flavor. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the flour that forms the base, to the spices and sugar that give them their signature taste.

• 1 ¼ cups flour: The foundation for a soft, fluffy texture inside every donut hole.
• ¼ cup sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to the dough itself.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Ensures these bites puff up perfectly and stay tender.
• ¼ tsp nutmeg: A warm, subtle spice that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
• ½ cup milk: Provides moisture for a smooth, easy-to-mix dough.
• 1 egg: Helps bind everything together and adds richness.
• 1 Tbsp butter, melted: Adds a lovely depth of flavor and keeps the donut holes tender.
• Oil for frying: The secret to that crisp, golden exterior that makes them irresistible.
• ½ cup sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon: The essential coating that transforms these bites into classic Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes.

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and nutmeg in a large bowl. This dry mix is the base that brings the right lift and flavor to your donut holes. Ensuring the baking powder is evenly distributed means your donut holes will puff up perfectly while frying.

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, egg, and melted butter until everything is smoothly blended. These ingredients add moisture, richness, and tenderness, which are crucial for that melt-in-your-mouth feel.

Step 3: Form the Dough

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. The dough will be soft and slightly sticky but thick enough to hold its shape when dropped into hot oil. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light and fluffy.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

Pour enough oil into a deep skillet or saucepan to reach about 2 inches deep. Heat it to 350°F (175°C) – this is vital for that crisp exterior. Too hot and the donut holes will burn; too cool and they’ll absorb too much oil.

Step 5: Fry the Donut Holes

Using a spoon or small scoop, carefully drop spoonfuls of dough into the hot oil in batches. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pan; give them room to float and fry evenly.

Step 6: Drain and Coat in Cinnamon Sugar

Once fried, remove the donut holes with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels for a minute. While still warm, toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture so that every nook and cranny gets coated in that perfect crunchy, sweet, and spicy layer.

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes

Garnishes

These Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes are delicious all on their own, but if you want to jazz them up, dust them with a little extra powdered sugar or drizzle lightly with honey or maple syrup. A sprinkle of chopped nuts can add a nice contrast in texture too.

Side Dishes

Pairing these bite-sized delights with a cup of hot coffee or spiced chai is like a match made in heaven. They also go wonderfully alongside fresh fruit or a smooth vanilla yogurt to balance out the sweetness and add some freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or family brunches, serve Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes in a large festive bowl with tiny skewers or toothpicks for easy grabbing. You can also create a mini dessert bar with various dipping sauces—think chocolate ganache, caramel, or cream cheese frosting—to make an interactive treat station everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with more Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes than you can eat in one sitting, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They are best enjoyed fresh, but proper storage will keep them tasty for a little while longer.

Freezing

To freeze, let the donut holes cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a tray to flash freeze for about an hour before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. This prevents them from sticking together, and they can be stored frozen for up to a month.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat the donut holes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to bring back their crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I bake Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes instead of frying?

Yes! While frying gives you that classic crispy exterior, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes. The texture will be a bit different but still delicious and more hands-off.

What type of oil is best for frying donut holes?

Neutral oils with a high smoke point, like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil, work best. They ensure a clean, crispy finish without imparting unwanted flavors.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

It’s best to fry the donut holes fresh after mixing the dough. The baking powder is active and will lose its leavening power if the batter sits too long, resulting in denser bites.

How do I know the oil is the right temperature?

If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small bit of dough into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the top slowly, the temperature is right; if it browns too quickly or sinks, adjust the heat accordingly.

Can I add other flavors to the dough?

Absolutely! A splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cardamom can add a lovely twist to your Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes. Just keep the additions light so the classic cinnamon sugar coating remains the star.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly joyful about making and sharing Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes. Their easy preparation and delicious outcome make them a wonderful treat for any occasion. I encourage you to try this recipe soon and savor every bite of those warm, cinnamon-sweet treasures that never fail to brighten the day.