# Delicious Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes: A Heavenly Treat for Every Occasion
You know that feeling when the aroma of warm donuts fills your home, instantly bringing back childhood memories of weekend breakfasts? The fluffy, tender bites, rolling in sweet cinnamon sugar, can make anyone smile. Let me take you on a delightful journey where you can recreate that nostalgia with my recipe for delicious cinnamon sugar donut holes. This recipe delivers the perfect balance of softness and sweetness, making them the ultimate indulgence.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into what makes these donut holes special, why they’re a must-try for your next family gathering, and how you can whip them up with easily accessible ingredients. Grab your mixing bowls, and let’s get started!
## What are Delicious Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes?
Cinnamon sugar donut holes are small, spherical pieces of fried or baked dough coated in a sweet mixture of cinnamon and sugar. Originating as a variation of traditional donuts, they are a popular treat found in bakeries and at fairs, celebrated for their delightful bite-sized portions.
The beauty of these donut holes lies in their texture — soft, airy, and just the right amount of chewy. They’re golden-brown on the outside and tender on the inside. As you take that first bite, the crisp sugar coating lightly crunches, giving way to the pillowy interior infused with a hint of vanilla and spice. The sweet aroma of cinnamon wafts through the air, invoking a sense of warmth and happiness, perfect for every occasion, whether it’s a Sunday brunch or an after-dinner treat.
## Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
What sets my delicious cinnamon sugar donut holes apart? For starters, they are incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. They come together in about 30 minutes! This recipe is perfect for anyone on a budget or looking for a quick treat to dazzle their guests.
But it’s not just about convenience; these little bites of joy are versatile. They can be a fabulous addition to birthday parties, holiday celebrations, or simply an afternoon pick-me-up. Plus, they’re fun to make! Rolling the donut holes in cinnamon sugar is a perfect activity to involve kids or loved ones, making the process as delightful as the treats themselves.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious cinnamon sugar donut holes:
### For the Donut Holes:
– **2 cups all-purpose flour**: Provides structure and is essential for that fluffy texture. Look for a quality brand for best results.
– **1/4 cup granulated sugar**: Sweetens the donut holes; you can substitute with coconut sugar if desired for a deeper flavor.
– **1 tablespoon baking powder**: This leavening agent ensures your donuts rise beautifully. Make sure it’s fresh for best results!
– **1/2 teaspoon salt**: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
– **1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon**: Adds warmth and spice, but feel free to increase it if you prefer a more pronounced cinnamon flavor.
– **2 large eggs**: They bind the mixture and add richness.
– **1/2 cup milk**: Use whole milk for creaminess. Non-dairy alternatives can also work well here.
– **1 teaspoon vanilla extract**: A key flavor that enhances the overall sweetness.
– **1/4 cup unsalted butter**, melted: Makes the donut holes moist and delicious.
### For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
– **1/2 cup granulated sugar**: This will make up the base of your cinnamon sugar.
– **1 tablespoon ground cinnamon**: Combine to give that classic sweet, spicy flavor.
## How to Make Delicious Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
Let’s roll up your sleeves and make these delectable treats! Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your cinnamon sugar donut holes:
### Step 1: Preheat the Oil
Begin by pouring oil into a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot to a depth of about 2 inches. This will ensure that your donut holes fry evenly. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, test it by dropping a small piece of dough in; it should sizzle immediately.
### Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the **flour**, **baking powder**, **salt**, **granulated sugar**, and **cinnamon** until well combined. Take a moment to breathe in that delightful scent as the spices mingle with the flour.
### Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the **eggs**, **milk**, **vanilla extract**, and melted **butter**. Ensure that your butter isn’t too hot; otherwise, it can cook the eggs.
### Step 4: Combine and Form Dough
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together using a spatula or wooden spoon. Do this until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough donut holes! The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
### Step 5: Shape the Dough
Using your hands or a small scoop, take about a tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball, roughly 1-1.5 inches in diameter. Place it on a floured surface or baking sheet, continuing this process until you have shaped all your dough into balls.
### Step 6: Fry the Donut Holes
Once your oil is hot, gently lower a few donut holes at a time into the bubbling oil. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature. Fry each donut hole for approximately 3-4 minutes, turning them occasionally until they reach a beautiful golden-brown color.
### Step 7: Drain and Coat
Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried donut holes and let them drain on a plate lined with paper towels. While they are still warm, toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. The sugar sticks best when donuts are fresh out of the fryer.
### Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Place your delicious cinnamon sugar donut holes on a platter and serve immediately. The warm, fragrant treats are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored and reheated later.
## Tips, Tricks & Variations
– **Donut Hole Size**: The size of your donut holes affects cooking time. If you prefer them larger, adjust frying time accordingly (around 5-6 minutes).
– **Baked Option**: You can bake these at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes if you prefer a healthier alternative. They won’t be as crispy but will still be fluffy and lovely.
– **Storage**: Store leftover donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. You can also freeze them; just be sure to wrap them well!
– **Reheating**: To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
– **Flavored Sugar**: Play with spices! Swap out the cinnamon for nutmeg, or use a mix of spices for a chai twist. You can also add a little cocoa powder to make chocolate donut holes!
## What to Serve With Delicious Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
These delightful donut holes are perfect on their own, but you can enhance your dessert experience through a few serving suggestions:
– **Coffee or Latte**: The rich, deep flavors of coffee pair exquisitely with the sweet spice of cinnamon.
– **Milk or Hot Chocolate**: For those who enjoy a classic combo, a cold glass of milk or a warm mug of hot chocolate will complement the sweetness beautifully.
– **Fresh Fruits**: Serve with sliced strawberries or bananas for a contrast in texture and freshness, creating a more complete breakfast or dessert spread.
## Nutrition & Health Benefits
A serving of cinnamon sugar donut holes (about two pieces) typically contains around 250 calories, depending on the size and method of preparation. While they’re certainly a treat, here’s where they shine:
– **Calories**: Though indulgent, these donut holes are smaller in size, so moderation is key.
– **Whole Ingredients**: With wholesome ingredients like eggs and milk, they do provide some protein and fats, making them satisfying in a small serving.
– **Cinnamon Benefits**: Cinnamon is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and potential to help regulate blood sugar levels, making these treats a bit more delightful from a nutritional standpoint .
## Frequently Asked Questions
### 1. Can I make these donut holes vegan?
Yes! You can substitute the eggs with a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use almond or soy milk instead of regular milk.
### 2. How do I know when the oil is hot enough?
If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it bubbles and rises to the surface quickly, the oil is ready.
### 3. Can I freeze the donut holes?
Absolutely! Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can stay fresh for up to 3 months.
### 4. How long do these donut holes stay fresh?
If stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, they’re best eaten within 2 days. You can refrigerate them for a few extra days, but they might lose some of their fluffy texture.
### 5. What can I do with leftover cinnamon sugar?
If you have extra cinnamon sugar, try using it to sweeten oatmeal or sprinkle it over toast or pancakes for a delightful breakfast twist.
## Conclusion
These delicious cinnamon sugar donut holes are not just a sweet treat; they’re a reminder of cozy mornings and simple joys. With their fluffy interior and crisp exterior, they’re bound to become your new favorite recipe to share with family and friends. Whether you’re making them for the holidays, special gatherings, or just because you deserve a sweet moment in your day, I promise you’ll find joy in every single bite.
So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, head to the kitchen, and let the warmth of freshly made donut holes fill your home. When you do, don’t forget to share your results with me on Instagram or drop a comment below. Happy cooking!
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