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Crispy Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes Easy Homemade Recipe

crispy air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes - featured image

These crispy air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes offer a healthier, fuss-free version of classic fried donut holes with a perfect balance of crispiness and cinnamon sweetness. Ready in under 30 minutes, they are a crowd-pleasing treat perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 large egg (room temperature)
  • 1/3 cup (80ml) milk (whole or 2%; almond milk for dairy-free option)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted, cooled)
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar (for coating)
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
  • Optional: pinch of nutmeg (for coating)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm for about 5 minutes.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth.
  4. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. In a shallow bowl, mix the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and optional nutmeg for the coating.
  6. Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to drop golf-ball-sized mounds of batter into the air fryer basket, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
  7. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 6-8 minutes, flipping the donut holes halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
  8. Immediately toss the warm donut holes in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat.
  9. Serve warm, ideally fresh from the fryer with coffee or tea.

Notes

Do not overmix the batter to keep donut holes light and tender. Preheat the air fryer for best crispiness. Flip donut holes halfway through cooking for even browning. Use a light spray of oil on the basket to prevent sticking. Toss donut holes in cinnamon sugar immediately after cooking while still warm for best coating adherence. Fresh cinnamon is recommended for best aroma. For gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free blend. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and butter alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer, donut holes, cinnamon sugar, easy recipe, homemade, quick dessert, crispy, sweet treat