Crispy Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes Easy Homemade Recipe

“The sizzle when those little dough balls hit the air fryer basket is oddly satisfying,” my neighbor Mark said last Saturday morning while I was fumbling with the cinnamon sugar mix. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting much from this experiment. I was aiming to make the classic fried donut holes but without the mess and the oil splatter. Yet, what came out was these crispy air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes that quickly became a weekend favorite in my kitchen.

One afternoon, I found a cracked old recipe card tucked inside a thrift store cookbook with a note scribbled on the back: “Best enjoyed fresh, with a cup of coffee.” That little discovery inspired me to recreate a healthier, fuss-free version using an air fryer. I mean, who knew you could get that perfect crispy outside and tender inside without deep frying? Plus, the aroma of cinnamon and sugar swirling in the air took me back to a chilly Tuesday morning when I first tasted donut holes at my friend Lisa’s place—she wasn’t even trying to impress anyone, just casually tossing them in the fryer, but they blew me away.

Maybe you’ve been there, craving something sweet and cozy but don’t want to wrestle with hot oil or complicated dough. This recipe stayed with me because it’s simple, rewarding, and honestly, a little addictive. If you love that perfect balance of crispiness and cinnamon sweetness, I think you’ll feel right at home with these donut holes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

After trying countless recipes and tweaking them in my kitchen, this crispy air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes recipe stands out for so many reasons. It’s not just another sweet treat—it’s a reliable, easy-to-make delight that’s become a crowd favorite in my family and among friends.

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy mornings or last-minute dessert cravings.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples you probably already have—no special runs to the store needed.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch, a casual get-together, or a cozy night in, these donut holes fit right in.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Kids, adults, skeptics alike—everyone asks for seconds.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The crispy exterior contrasts with the soft, fluffy interior, all kissed with just the right cinnamon sugar blend.

What makes this recipe different? It’s the magic of the air fryer combined with a light batter that crisps up beautifully without being greasy. Plus, the cinnamon sugar coating is perfectly balanced—not too sweet, with just enough warmth to tickle your taste buds. Honestly, this isn’t just a quick fix; it’s the kind of treat that makes you close your eyes after the first bite and smile. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll find yourself sneaking these donut holes while no one’s watching!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses straightforward, wholesome ingredients to create bold flavor and that satisfying texture we all crave. Most are pantry staples, and substitutions are friendly for different dietary needs.

• For the donut holes:
  • All-purpose flour, 1 cup (120g) – I prefer King Arthur for consistent results
  • Baking powder, 1 teaspoon – to help them puff up nicely
  • Granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons – adds subtle sweetness
  • Salt, 1/4 teaspoon – balances the flavors
  • Large egg, 1 (room temperature) – binds the batter
  • Milk, 1/3 cup (80ml) – whole or 2% works best; use almond milk for dairy-free option
  • Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon – adds warmth and depth
  • Unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons (melted, cooled) – for richness
• For the cinnamon sugar coating:
  • Granulated sugar, 1/2 cup (100g)
  • Ground cinnamon, 1 tablespoon – fresh ground if possible for best aroma
  • Optional: pinch of nutmeg (just a tiny bit) to add complexity

Pro tip: For extra fluffy donut holes, make sure your baking powder is fresh. If you want a gluten-free version, swapping the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1-to-1 blend works, but expect a slightly different texture. I’ve also tried using coconut sugar in the coating for a deeper, caramel-like flavor—definitely worth experimenting!

Equipment Needed

To whip up these crispy air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials:

• Air fryer: A standard 4-6 quart (liter) air fryer works great. I use a Ninja Foodi, but most brands like Philips or Cosori are just as good.
• Mixing bowls: One medium for dry ingredients, another for wet.
• Whisk or fork: For combining the batter smoothly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements make a difference here.
• Spoon or small cookie scoop: To portion the batter evenly.
• Tongs or silicone spatula: For gently flipping donut holes in the air fryer if needed.

If you don’t have an air fryer, a small convection oven or even a toaster oven with a baking rack could work, but you might lose some crispiness. Also, keep your air fryer basket clean and lightly sprayed with non-stick spray before cooking to prevent sticking—trust me, that saved me from a few broken donut holes!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your air fryer: Set to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm for about 5 minutes. This helps the donut holes cook evenly and crisp up right away.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until combined.
3. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat 1 large egg (room temperature), 1/3 cup (80ml) milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter. Make sure the butter isn’t too hot or it’ll scramble the egg!
4. Make the batter: Slowly add the dry mix to the wet, stirring gently with a whisk or spoon until just combined. The batter will be thick but smooth—don’t overmix or you’ll toughen the dough.
5. Prepping the cinnamon sugar: In a shallow bowl, combine 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (and an optional pinch of nutmeg). Mix well and set aside.
6. Form the donut holes: Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to drop golf-ball-sized mounds of batter into the air fryer basket. Leave about 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each to allow for expansion. Depending on your basket size, cook in batches.
7. Cook the donut holes: Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 6-8 minutes. At the halfway mark (around 4 minutes), gently flip each donut hole using tongs or a silicone spatula to ensure even browning. You’re looking for a golden brown, crispy exterior.
8. Coat immediately: As soon as the donut holes come out, toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture while still warm. This helps the sugar stick and melt slightly for that irresistible coating.
9. Serve warm: These donut holes are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer, with a hot cup of coffee or tea.

Little heads-up: If your air fryer tends to cook hotter than expected, check a batch a minute or two earlier to avoid burning. And yes, sometimes a donut hole might puff unevenly or stick a bit—don’t stress, just gently loosen with a spatula and carry on. I once forgot to preheat the fryer, and the texture was a little off—not crispy enough—so consider that step essential.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Getting crispy air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes just right can feel like a bit of a balancing act, but I’ve learned some useful tricks over time.

• Don’t overmix the batter: It’s tempting to stir until perfectly smooth, but a little lumpiness keeps the donut holes light and tender.
• Preheat the air fryer: This step is key to achieving that crisp crust instead of a soggy outside.
• Flip halfway through: This isn’t strictly necessary with some air fryers, but I find it helps them brown evenly and prevents one side from burning.
• Use a light spray of oil: A quick mist of cooking oil on the basket or on the donut holes before cooking can help with crispness and prevent sticking.
• Fresh cinnamon: If you can, grind your own cinnamon for that intense aroma. It makes a noticeable difference.
• Don’t overcrowd: Give your donut holes breathing room in the basket so hot air circulates properly.
• Work quickly when coating: Toss the donut holes in cinnamon sugar right after cooking while they’re warm, or the sugar won’t stick as well.

One time I tried tossing the donut holes after they cooled a bit, and the sugar just slid off—lesson learned! Also, feel free to tweak the cinnamon sugar ratio to your liking. If you’re a cinnamon fanatic like me, adding a bit more spice creates that extra punch. Just watch out for overpowering the sweetness.

Variations & Adaptations

If you like mixing things up, this recipe is pretty flexible for different tastes and dietary needs.

• Gluten-free: Swap all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend. I recommend Bob’s Red Mill for best texture.
• Dairy-free: Use almond milk or oat milk instead of dairy milk, and replace butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine.
• Flavor twists: Add a teaspoon of ground cardamom or pumpkin pie spice to the cinnamon sugar for a seasonal flair. I tried pumpkin spice one fall, and it was a hit!
• Glaze option: Instead of cinnamon sugar, drizzle warmed honey or a simple powdered sugar glaze over the donut holes after cooking for a different kind of sweetness.
• Baked version: If you don’t have an air fryer, bake the donut holes on a parchment-lined tray at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, but expect less crispiness.

Personally, I once swapped in mashed ripe banana into the batter for moisture and subtle sweetness—it made the donut holes extra tender but less crispy. Great for a softer bite! Feel free to experiment; these little treats are forgiving and fun to customize.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These crispy air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes are best served warm, fresh from the fryer, when the sugar coating is still slightly melty and the inside is pillowy soft. I like to plate them in a small bowl or on a pretty platter with a dusting of extra cinnamon sugar on top for that inviting look.

Pairing suggestions? A hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a rich hot cocoa makes for a cozy combo. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream.

If you have leftovers (rare, but it happens), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours or in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) for 2-3 minutes to regain crispiness. Microwave reheating tends to make them a bit soggy, so air frying is your best bet.

Flavors actually deepen after a day, so if you can wait, the cinnamon sugar melds into the dough for an even tastier bite. Just remember to refresh the coating if needed before serving.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each serving (about 6 donut holes) contains roughly:

Calories	220
Carbohydrates	30g
Fat	8g
Protein	4g
Sugar	12g

These donut holes are a treat, but because they’re air-fried instead of deep-fried, they contain less fat and fewer calories than traditional versions. The use of real cinnamon adds not just flavor but also antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits. Using whole milk or dairy-free alternatives lets you cater to different dietary preferences easily.

For those watching gluten intake, the recipe adapts well with gluten-free flours, making it accessible without compromising taste too much. Just keep in mind the sugar content if you’re managing blood sugar levels—maybe enjoy them as an occasional indulgence.

Conclusion

These crispy air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes have become my go-to sweet fix when I want something quick, tasty, and fuss-free. They’re easy to make, use simple ingredients, and the air fryer does most of the work for a perfect crispy finish.

Feel free to play around with the sugar and spice blend or try one of the variations to make the recipe your own. Honestly, I love how these little bites bring a bit of warmth and comfort to any day, whether it’s a busy weekday morning or a relaxed weekend brunch.

If you give this recipe a try, drop a comment below with your tweaks, favorite pairings, or any questions. Sharing your kitchen wins always makes my day! Happy cooking and enjoy every crispy, sweet bite.

FAQs

Can I make these donut holes without an air fryer?

Yes! You can bake them in a conventional oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be as crispy but still delicious.

How do I store leftover donut holes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours or in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best crispiness.

Can I freeze these donut holes?

Absolutely! Freeze cooled donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the air fryer from frozen for 3-4 minutes.

What can I use instead of all-purpose flour?

Gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour works well. You can also try whole wheat flour, but the texture will be denser.

Is there a vegan version of this recipe?

You can try substituting the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) and using plant-based milk and butter alternatives. Results may vary slightly.

Print