Crispy Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes Recipe – Easy 20-Minute Treat

Imagine this: you walk into your kitchen, and suddenly the warm scent of cinnamon and sugar hits you. It’s the kind of aroma that makes you pause, close your eyes, and just smile—because you know something magical is happening. The very first time I made these crispy air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes, I couldn’t believe how fast my kitchen transformed into a bakery. The golden little bites sizzling away in the air fryer, their sugary coating glinting in the afternoon sun—honestly, it was pure, nostalgic comfort.

Years ago, when I was knee-high to a grasshopper, my grandma used to fry up batches of fresh donuts for Sunday brunch. I’d sneak into the kitchen, hoping to nab a warm piece before anyone noticed. That sense of anticipation? That’s exactly what these air fryer donut holes bring back for me. Only, let’s face it—these days, I want the taste without the mess or the oily aftermath.

I stumbled onto this recipe on a rainy weekend, determined to recreate those classic flavors, but in a way that felt a bit lighter (and quicker). What I wish I’d realized years ago is just how dangerously easy these donut holes are. My family couldn’t stop sneaking them off the cooling rack, and even my picky eater asked for seconds. They’re perfect for potlucks, sweet treats for your kids, or when you want to brighten up your Pinterest dessert board with something golden and sparkly.

I’ve tested this recipe more times than I can count—in the name of research, of course—and it’s become a staple for family gatherings, gifting, and those moments when you just need a warm hug in snack form. So, if you love the idea of crispy air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes that come together in just 20 minutes, you’re going to want to bookmark this one!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This crispy air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes recipe is the result of countless trials in my kitchen, and I can say with confidence—these are a game changer! Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home baker, you’ll find yourself coming back to this easy treat again and again.

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for last-minute cravings or unexpected guests.
• Simple Ingredients: No specialty shopping required—you probably have everything in your pantry right now.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Brunch, after-school snacks, cozy movie nights, or even holiday mornings. These donut holes fit right in.
• Crowd-Pleaser: My family, neighbors, and even the mailman (long story) have given these rave reviews. Kids love the bite-size fun and adults appreciate the nostalgic flavor.
• Unbelievably Delicious: Crisp on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, with the perfect cinnamon sugar crunch. It’s the kind of treat that makes you close your eyes after the first bite.

What sets this recipe apart? First, the air fryer method gives you the same crispy texture as traditional frying—without the mess or extra oil. I use a touch of sour cream in the dough for extra tenderness (trust me, it’s worth it!). The cinnamon sugar coating is generous, so every bite feels like a celebration.

This isn’t just another donut hole recipe; it’s my best version. The balance of vanilla, the hint of nutmeg, and the golden crispness make it stand out. And you know what? It’s comfort food reimagined—lighter, faster, and so much easier, but still with that soul-soothing satisfaction. Whether you want to impress guests or just treat yourself, these donut holes deliver every time.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying texture without the fuss. Most of these are pantry staples, and you can easily swap a few things if needed. Here’s what you need for crispy air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes:

• For the Donut Holes:
  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour (unbleached works best for a fluffier texture)
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (adds a classic donut flavor)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup (60g) sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist)
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) milk (whole or 2%, plant-based works too)
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted (plus more for brushing)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (pure for best flavor)
• For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted

Ingredient Tips & Substitutions:

• Flour: You can use gluten-free all-purpose flour if needed, but check for a 1:1 blend.
• Milk: Almond or oat milk works fine for dairy-free options; I’ve tried both and they’re just as tender.
• Sour Cream: If you’re out, plain yogurt (regular or Greek) is a perfect substitute for moisture and tang.
• Butter: For dairy-free, swap with melted coconut oil—just expect a hint of coconut flavor.
• Cinnamon: Use Saigon cinnamon for extra punch, or Ceylon for milder sweetness.
• Sugar: I prefer organic cane sugar, but any granulated sugar will work.
• Egg: If egg-free, try a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water, mixed and rested).

Honestly, I’ve made these with every possible substitution and they always turn out crispy and delicious. If you want to get fancy, sprinkle a pinch of cardamom into the coating for a little twist (my grandma swore by it!).

Equipment Needed

You don’t need any fancy gadgets for crispy air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes, just a few basic kitchen tools:

• Air Fryer: Any brand works—just make sure it’s large enough to fit a batch without overcrowding. Mine is a 5.8 qt basket style.
• Mixing Bowls: One medium and one small for wet and dry ingredients.
• Whisk: For blending the batter smoothly. A fork does the trick in a pinch.
• Pastry Brush: For brushing melted butter onto the donut holes (totally optional, but makes the sugar stick better).
• Small Cookie Scoop or Tablespoon: For portioning uniform donut holes. Don’t sweat it if you don’t have one—I’ve used two spoons and it works fine.
• Wire Cooling Rack: Helps with even cooling and keeps the coating crispy.
• Shallow Bowl: For rolling donut holes in cinnamon sugar.

If you’re missing a pastry brush, just roll the donut holes in melted butter using a fork. For the air fryer, give the basket a light spritz of nonstick spray and you’re set. I keep my tools simple—no expensive devices required. Clean-up is a breeze (which is half the reason I love making these as a quick treat!).

Preparation Method

Let’s get those crispy air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes ready! Here’s the step-by-step breakdown (with all my tried-and-true tips thrown in):

1. Prep the Air Fryer: Preheat to 350°F (180°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with nonstick spray so the donut holes don’t stick.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup (125g) flour, 1/4 cup (50g) sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. The mixture should look even and smell faintly nutty.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine 1/4 cup (60g) sour cream, 1/4 cup (60ml) milk, 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons (28g) melted butter, and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Whisk until smooth and creamy—don’t worry if it’s a little lumpy.
4. Combine Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix until just combined—overmixing leads to tough donut holes. The batter should be thick but scoopable (if it’s too sticky, add a teaspoon more flour).
5. Form Donut Holes: Using a small cookie scoop or tablespoon, scoop out balls (about 1 tablespoon each). Roll lightly between your palms to smooth. You should get 16-18 donut holes.
6. Air Fry: Arrange donut holes in the air fryer basket, leaving a little space between each. Cook at 350°F (180°C) for 7-9 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. Donut holes should be golden brown and firm to the touch.
7. Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: While they cook, mix 1/2 cup (100g) sugar and 2 teaspoons cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Melt 2 tablespoons (28g) butter separately.
8. Coat Donut Holes: When the donut holes are done, let them cool for 1 minute (so the coating sticks but doesn’t melt). Brush or roll each donut hole in melted butter, then immediately roll in cinnamon sugar until fully coated.
9. Cool and Serve: Set coated donut holes on a wire rack. Let them cool for 5 minutes (they firm up and get crispier as they cool!).

Troubleshooting Tips:

• If donut holes look pale, add 1-2 more minutes in the air fryer.
• Batter too sticky? Add a sprinkle of flour.
• If cinnamon sugar isn’t sticking, let donut holes cool a bit more before coating.

Honestly, this method is foolproof! If you’re in a hurry, skip the cooling rack and eat them warm—they’re irresistible either way.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Let’s talk about getting those crispy air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes just right. Here are my top tips—learned the hard way, trust me!

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Stir just until the flour disappears. Overmixing makes the donut holes dense and chewy (not what you want).
• Space Out the Donut Holes: Give each one room in the air fryer basket. Crowding leads to uneven cooking and soggy bottoms.
• Shake the Basket: Halfway through cooking, gently shake the basket so the donut holes crisp up all over. I forgot this once and ended up with some pale sides!
• Butter Before Sugar: Brush or roll the donut holes in melted butter while they’re still warm. It helps the cinnamon sugar stick perfectly and creates that classic crunch.
• Use a Wire Rack: Cooling the donut holes on a rack keeps them crisp. I used a plate once, and they got a little soggy underneath.

Timing is key. If you want to multitask, mix up the cinnamon sugar while the donut holes are cooking. For perfect consistency, measure ingredients carefully (especially the flour). And if you’re making a double batch, work in batches—overcrowding the air fryer is the number one mistake I made early on!

One last note: if you’re using a different air fryer model, check a donut hole a minute early to avoid overcooking. Each air fryer runs a little different, and you know, minor imperfections are part of the homemade charm!

Variations & Adaptations

Crispy air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes are endlessly customizable! Here are a few ways to make them your own:

• Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free blend. I’ve tried King Arthur and Bob’s Red Mill with great results.
• Vegan: Use plant-based milk, coconut oil for the butter, and a flax or chia egg instead of regular eggs. They come out just as tender!
• Seasonal Flavors: Add a pinch of pumpkin spice to the cinnamon sugar in fall, or swap in lemon zest for a springtime twist.
• Chocolate-Lovers: Mix 2 tablespoons cocoa powder into the batter for chocolate donut holes. Or, drizzle with melted chocolate after coating in cinnamon sugar.
• Stuffed Donut Holes: Press a small piece of cream cheese or Nutella into the center of each dough ball before air frying. (I’ve done this for birthday brunches—major hit!)
• Nut-Free Adaptation: The basic recipe is nut-free, but always check labels on your flour and baking powder for cross-contamination.

My personal favorite adaptation? Swapping half the cinnamon for cardamom and rolling in maple sugar. It’s the kind of twist that makes people ask for the “secret ingredient.” No matter your dietary needs or flavor cravings, this recipe is a blank canvas!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve crispy air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes warm, right out of the fryer, for the ultimate treat. I love to pile them up on a pretty plate or wooden board, sprinkle with extra cinnamon sugar, and watch them disappear!

• Serving Temperature: Warm or room temperature is best. For parties, keep them on a warming tray.
• Presentation Tips: Arrange donut holes in cupcake liners for grab-and-go snacking or stack them in a pyramid for a festive brunch centerpiece.
• Pairings: Perfect with hot coffee, chai, or a tall glass of cold milk. For dessert, serve alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Storage: Store cooled donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze in a zip-top bag for up to a month.
• Reheating: Pop a few donut holes in the air fryer at 325°F (160°C) for 2-3 minutes. Or microwave for 10 seconds (they’ll lose a bit of crunch, but still taste amazing).
• Flavor Development: The cinnamon sugar coating settles in overnight, making them even tastier the next day—if they last that long!

Honestly, I’ve never had leftovers for very long. If you do, stash a few for a secret midnight snack!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a quick look at what’s inside each crispy air fryer cinnamon sugar donut hole:

• Estimated Nutrition (per donut hole): 65 calories, 3g fat, 9g carbs, 1g protein, 5g sugar
• Health Highlights:
  • Lower in fat than deep-fried donut holes thanks to the air fryer.
  • Real ingredients like eggs and sour cream bring protein and calcium.
  • Cinnamon offers antioxidants and may help balance blood sugar.
• Dietary Notes: Easily adapted for gluten-free, dairy-free, or nut-free diets.
• Allergens: Contains wheat, dairy, and eggs (see substitutions above for alternatives).

My wellness motto: treats are part of a happy kitchen! These donut holes let you enjoy a classic sweet bite, with a bit less guilt and a lot more flavor.

Conclusion

So there you have it—crispy air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes that are quick, easy, and totally irresistible. From the first waft of cinnamon in your kitchen to the last golden bite, this recipe is pure comfort. You’ll love how easy it is to customize, serve, and store, and trust me—your family and friends will keep asking for more.

Don’t be afraid to play around with flavors or swap ingredients; baking should be fun and a little imperfect sometimes! I love this recipe for its nostalgic charm and modern convenience, and I hope it becomes a staple in your own kitchen.

If you try these donut holes, let me know! Leave a comment below, share your adaptations, or tag me on social media—I’m always excited to see your creations. Until next time, happy snacking and don’t forget: cinnamon sugar makes everything better!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep air fryer donut holes crispy?

Let them cool on a wire rack instead of a plate, and don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. They’ll stay crisp longer this way.

Can I make these donut holes gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. The texture remains light and tender.

Can I prep the batter ahead of time?

You can mix the batter and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 4 hours. Scoop and air fry when you’re ready to serve for best results.

How do I freeze and reheat donut holes?

Freeze cooled donut holes in a zip-top bag for up to a month. Reheat in the air fryer at 325°F (160°C) for 2-3 minutes to restore crispness.

What’s the secret to getting the cinnamon sugar to stick?

Brush warm donut holes with melted butter, then roll in cinnamon sugar immediately. The warmth and butter help the coating adhere perfectly.

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