Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes Delightful Treat Recipe

If you’re craving a sweet treat that’s easy to make, you’re in the right place! My Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a classic favorite. With simple ingredients you likely have at home, I’ll guide you through making these soft, sugary bites. Plus, I’ve included tips for perfecting your donut holes and fun variations to try. Let’s get started on this delicious journey!

Ingredients

Complete list of ingredients

To make cinnamon sugar donut holes, gather these simple ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar

– 2 teaspoons baking powder

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

– 1/2 cup milk

– 1 large egg

– 2 tablespoons melted butter

– 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

– Oil for frying

Substitutes for key ingredients

You can swap some ingredients if needed:

– Use whole wheat flour for a nutty flavor.

– Replace sugar with brown sugar for a richer taste.

– Almond milk works well in place of regular milk.

– For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil instead of butter.

Nutritional information breakdown

Here’s a quick look at the nutrition for one donut hole:

– Calories: 80

– Fat: 4g

– Carbohydrates: 10g

– Protein: 1g

– Fiber: 0g

– Sugar: 4g

These values can change based on ingredient choices and cooking methods.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of dry ingredients

First, grab a large mixing bowl. Add 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Then, mix in 1/2 cup of granulated sugar. Next, add 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg. Use a whisk to blend these dry ingredients well. This step is key for even flavor in your donut holes.

Mixing wet ingredients

In another bowl, pour in 1/2 cup of milk. Crack in 1 large egg and add 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir these wet ingredients together until you see a smooth mix. This mixture brings moisture to your donut holes, making them soft and tasty.

Frying the donut holes

Now it’s time to fry! Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pan to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there’s enough oil to cover the donut holes. Using a small cookie scoop or your hands, take about 1 tablespoon of the batter. Carefully drop it into the hot oil. Fry them in batches to keep them from sticking together. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Once fried, lift them out with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain the oil. While they are warm, roll each donut hole in a mix of 1/2 cup of sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon. Enjoy your warm, sweet treat!

Tips & Tricks

How to achieve the perfect texture

To get soft and fluffy donut holes, mix your batter gently. Overmixing makes them tough. It’s okay if the batter has some lumps. These lumps help keep the donut holes light. Also, use fresh baking powder for the best rise. Old baking powder can make your donut holes dense.

Recommended frying techniques

Fry the donut holes at 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect heat for golden-brown results. Use enough oil to cover the donut holes completely. This helps them cook evenly. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady. This way, they cook nicely and don’t soak up too much oil.

Common mistakes to avoid

One big mistake is not checking the oil temperature. If it’s too hot, the outside burns before the inside cooks. If it’s too cold, they absorb too much oil and become greasy. Another mistake is rolling them in sugar too late. Roll them in cinnamon sugar while they are still warm for better coating. Lastly, don’t skip the nutmeg! It adds a warm flavor that enhances the cinnamon.

Variations

Gluten-free cinnamon sugar donut holes

You can make these donut holes gluten-free easily. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour. This blend works well in most recipes. Just check the label to ensure it has xanthan gum. This will help your donut holes stay fluffy and hold together.

Vegan donut hole options

To make vegan donut holes, swap the egg for a flax egg. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens. Use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk in place of regular milk. You can also replace butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. These changes will keep your treat tasty and cruelty-free.

Flavor variations (chocolate, pumpkin spice, etc.)

You can get creative with flavors in your donut holes. To make chocolate donut holes, add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to your dry ingredients. For a fall twist, mix in 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree and a bit of pumpkin spice. You can also add extracts like vanilla or almond for extra flavor. Feel free to mix and match to create your perfect treat!

Storage Info

How to store leftover donut holes

To keep your donut holes fresh, place them in an airtight container. Make sure to cool them first. If they are warm, they can create steam, making them soggy. Store the container in a cool, dry place, or in the fridge for up to three days. For best taste, enjoy them within the first two days.

Best practices for reheating

When you want to eat leftover donut holes, reheating is key. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the donut holes on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 5-7 minutes. This method keeps them warm and fresh. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make them chewy.

Freezing options for longer storage

If you want to save donut holes for later, freezing works great. Let them cool completely first. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can last up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then reheat as mentioned above.

FAQs

Can I bake cinnamon sugar donut holes instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them! To bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Use a mini muffin pan for best results. Fill each cup with batter, about three-quarters full. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until golden. Baking gives a lighter texture. However, they won’t be as fluffy or rich as fried ones.

How can I make these donut holes healthier?

You can swap out some ingredients. Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Try reducing sugar by using a sugar substitute. You can also use almond milk or oat milk in place of regular milk. For a lower fat option, replace melted butter with unsweetened applesauce. These swaps keep the flavor while cutting calories.

What are some serving suggestions for donut holes?

Serve these donut holes warm for the best flavor. Pair with coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy treat. You can also add a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce on top. For a fun twist, serve with fresh fruit or whipped cream. Enjoy them at parties, brunches, or as a sweet snack!

You learned how to make tasty cinnamon sugar donut holes. We covered key ingredients, substitutes, and nutrition. You now know preparation steps and frying methods. I shared tips for the best texture and common errors to avoid. You also discovered fun variations for gluten-free and vegan options. Finally, I explained how to store your donut holes for later use.

Enjoy creating your own delicious treat