I can still smell warm sugar and cinnamon on my grandmother’s kitchen towel—simple, sweet, and wrapped in the kind of comfort that makes you sit a little closer to the table. These air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes carry that porch-swing feeling with every bite. If you’re feeling homesick for small, perfect treats, this is the one to make; and if you want a slightly different take, try this Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes recipe too.
Why make this recipe
There’s something honest and gentle about donut holes—little rounds of joy that tell you to slow down, sip your coffee, and pass the plate. They’re quick in the air fryer, forgiving for busy hands, and perfect for sharing at family mornings or Sunday afternoons.
How to make Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
These are the kind of donut holes that feel like a warm hand on your shoulder. The air fryer gives them a light golden crust while keeping the inside tender and cake-like. Gather your bowls, hum an old hymn, and let the kitchen smell like home.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon cinnamon (for coating)
Directions:
- In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk, yogurt, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients and stir until just mixed.
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Use a small scoop to make donut holes and place them in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching.
- Air fry for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- While warm, roll the donut holes in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Serve warm and enjoy your cozy treat!
How to serve Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
Serve them straight from the basket onto a warm plate—pile them high and let folks help themselves. They’re heavenly with a steaming mug of coffee or a cold glass of milk, and a little buttered sweetness shines best when shared with someone you love. For a sweet pairing, try them alongside these cinnamon sugar blondies for an extra-special spread.
How to store Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
Store cooled donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’ve made a big batch, keep extras in the fridge for up to 4 days and warm them briefly in the air fryer (2–3 minutes at 325°F) to bring back that fresh-crisp edge.
Tips to make Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
- Don’t overmix the batter—gentle folds keep the crumb tender, like grandma’s best biscuits.
- Space the donut holes so air can circulate; crowding makes them uneven.
- If your air fryer runs hot, check at 5 minutes so they don’t over-brown.
- Roll them while still warm so the cinnamon sugar clings every which way.
Variations (if any)
- Glazed: Melt 1/2 cup powdered sugar with 1–2 tablespoons milk and dip for a simple glaze.
- Apple-cider twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg and swap 1 tablespoon of milk for a splash of apple cider.
- Chocolate-dipped: Dip half in melted chocolate and sprinkle with toasted nuts for a Sunday treat.
FAQs
Q: Can I bake these in the oven instead of an air fryer?
A: Yes—bake at 375°F for about 8–10 minutes, watching for a light golden color. They’ll be a touch different but just as lovely.
Q: Can I make the batter ahead of time?
A: You can mix the dry and wet separately and combine right before frying. If mixed too early, leavening can lose some lift.
Q: Are these suitable for kids to help make?
A: Absolutely. Kids love scooping and rolling—just supervise the air fryer step for safety.
Q: Can I freeze them?
A: Freeze cooled donut holes in a single layer, then transfer to a bag. Reheat in the air fryer from frozen at 325°F for 3–4 minutes.
Q: What if my donut holes aren’t browning evenly?
A: Rotate the basket halfway through cooking and make sure they have room around them for air to circulate.
Conclusion
I hope these little rounds bring you the same quiet happiness they bring me—warm, fragrant, and made for sharing. If you want another take on air-fried treats, peek at this helpful recipe for Air Fryer Donut Holes – Nicky’s Kitchen Sanctuary or compare notes with this version, Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes – Noble Pig. Come back and tell me who you shared your plate with; there’s always room at this kitchen table.
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- In another bowl, whisk together the milk, yogurt, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients and stir until just mixed.
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Use a small scoop to make donut holes and place them in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching.
- Air fry for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- While warm, roll the donut holes in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Serve warm and enjoy your cozy treat!