Are you ready for a sweet treat that will delight your taste buds? Cinnamon sugar donut holes are a simple and tasty snack perfect for anyone who loves baked goods. In this guide, I'll share easy steps to whip up these soft, fluffy bites coated in sweet cinnamon sugar. Let’s dive into a world of flavor that will make your kitchen smell heavenly! Get ready to impress your family and friends!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe requires only 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for a last-minute treat.
- Deliciously Warm: These donut holes are best served warm, providing a melt-in-your-mouth experience with each bite.
- Customizable Coating: You can easily adjust the cinnamon sugar to your liking or experiment with different flavorings.
- Fun to Make: Frying donut holes is a fun activity that both kids and adults can enjoy together in the kitchen.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus more for coating)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- Oil for frying
Creating cinnamon sugar donut holes is simple and fun. You need basic ingredients found in most kitchens. The flour gives the donut holes their structure. Baking powder and baking soda help them rise, making them light and fluffy. A pinch of salt enhances the sweet flavors.
Cinnamon is the star here, adding warmth and spice. The sugar sweetens the batter and coats the outside for that classic crunch. Milk and butter keep the donut holes moist and rich. Don't forget the egg; it binds everything together.
When you gather these ingredients, you'll be ready to create a treat that everyone loves. The final touch is the cinnamon sugar coating, which makes these donut holes irresistible. Enjoy the process and the sweet reward!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Mixing Dry Ingredients
Start by gathering your dry ingredients. In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Mix these well. This will help the donut holes rise and taste great. Set this bowl aside.
Combining Wet Ingredients
Now, let’s move to the wet ingredients. In a large bowl, whisk together:
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Whisk until everything is smooth. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to your donut holes.
Preparing the Oil for Frying
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot. The oil needs to reach 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to check. This is key for crispy donut holes. If the oil is too hot, they burn. If it’s not hot enough, they soak up too much oil.
Frying the Donut Holes
Once the oil is ready, it’s time to fry. Use a small spoon or cookie scoop to drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Don’t overcrowd the pot. Fry for 1-2 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color. Remove them with a slotted spoon. Place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Coating with Cinnamon Sugar
While the donut holes are warm, coat them in cinnamon sugar. In a shallow dish, mix:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Roll each donut hole in the mixture. Make sure they are fully coated for that sweet finish.
Serving Suggestions
Let the donut holes cool a bit before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best taste. They are perfect with coffee or milk. You can also serve them at parties or as a fun snack.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Frying Temperature
To get the best donut holes, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). This helps them cook evenly. If the oil is too hot, they will burn. If it’s too cold, they will soak up oil. Use a thermometer to check the temperature. If you don’t have one, drop a small spoonful of batter into the oil. If it bubbles and rises, you’re ready to fry.
Avoiding Overmixing the Batter
Mixing the batter is key but be careful. Stir until just combined. A few lumps are okay; they help keep the donut holes light. If you overmix, they can become tough. Remember, less is more when mixing!
Storing Leftover Donut Holes
If you have any leftover donut holes, store them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for a day at room temperature. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze them for up to a month. Just reheat in the oven before serving to bring back their warmth and flavor.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients will enhance the flavor and texture of your donut holes. Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are within their expiration dates for the best results.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Frying too many donut holes at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in greasy donuts. Fry in small batches to maintain the perfect frying temperature.
- Coat While Warm: For optimal coating, roll the donut holes in cinnamon sugar while they are still warm. This helps the sugar stick better and gives a deliciously sweet crust.
- Experiment with Flavors: Get creative by adding different spices or citrus zest to the batter. Nutmeg, cardamom, or orange zest can add a unique twist to your donut holes!
Variations
Chocolate Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
To make chocolate cinnamon sugar donut holes, simply add cocoa powder. Use 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder in place of some flour. This change gives it a rich chocolate flavor. After frying, roll them in cinnamon sugar just like the classic version. The chocolate pairs well with the sweet spice. You can also add chocolate chips to the batter for extra sweetness.
Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes
For pumpkin spice donut holes, swap in pumpkin puree. Use 1/4 cup of pumpkin puree in your wet ingredients. Add a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice for that fall flavor. This gives the donut holes a warm, cozy taste. Roll them in cinnamon sugar after frying to enhance their sweetness. These are perfect for autumn gatherings or any time you crave pumpkin treats.
Glazed Donut Holes
If you prefer a glaze, skip the cinnamon sugar. Create a simple glaze with powdered sugar and milk. Mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk. Stir until smooth, then dip each warm donut hole into the glaze. Let the excess drip off, and place them on a wire rack. This glaze adds a sweet, shiny finish that complements the soft donut inside. Enjoy them fresh for a delightful treat!
Nutritional Information
Estimated Calories Per Serving
Each serving of cinnamon sugar donut holes has about 120 calories. This estimate is based on a serving size of 2 donut holes.
Breakdown of Nutritional Values
- Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 2g
- Sugar: 7g
- Fiber: 0g
These values can vary based on how much sugar you use for coating.
Healthier Substitutions
You can make these donut holes healthier. Try using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients. You can also swap granulated sugar for coconut sugar. This change adds a lower glycemic index option. For a dairy-free version, use almond milk or oat milk. These simple swaps can make your sweet snack a bit better for your health.
FAQs
How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?
You can check the oil's heat by dropping a small piece of batter into it. If it sizzles and rises to the top, the oil is ready. Use a thermometer to target 350°F (175°C) for the best frying. If the oil is too cold, the donut holes will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
Can I make these donut holes in the oven?
Yes, you can bake donut holes instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Fill a greased mini muffin tin with the batter. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden. They may not be as fluffy as fried ones, but they will still taste great!
Where can I buy ready-made cinnamon sugar donut holes?
Most grocery stores sell ready-made cinnamon sugar donut holes. Look in the bakery section or the frozen foods aisle. You can also find them at local donut shops. They may not be as fresh as homemade, but they can satisfy your craving in a pinch!
In this post, we covered how to make delicious cinnamon sugar donut holes. You learned the key ingredients and followed clear steps to fry them perfectly. I shared helpful tips to improve your frying skills and offered fun variations. Donut holes can suit any taste, from pumpkin spice to chocolate. Remember, these treats are best fresh, but leftovers can be stored easily. Enjoy making these tasty bites. They are sure to please everyone!
