Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, these Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes are ready in just 20 minutes — no yeast, no rising, just pure donut perfection! They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert and are guaranteed to disappear faster than you can make them.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Mix, fry, and toss in cinnamon sugar — ready in about 20 minutes.
- No Yeast Needed: No kneading or waiting required.
- Sweet & Fluffy: Golden, crispy exterior with a soft, melt-in-your-mouth center.
- Perfect Anytime: Great for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat after dinner.
Ingredients
Donut Holes:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Oil, for frying
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
Instructions
- Prep Dry & Coating: Whisk together flour, salt, nutmeg, cinnamon, and baking powder in a medium bowl. In a small bowl, mix cinnamon sugar and set aside.
- Heat Oil: Pour oil into a deep skillet, about 2–3 inches deep. Heat to 360–375°F. A thermometer helps maintain the perfect frying temperature.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, sugar, and melted butter. Stir in dry ingredients until just combined — the batter will be sticky.
- Shape & Fry: Use a small cookie scoop or two spoons to drop about 2 teaspoons of batter into the hot oil. Fry 5–7 at a time for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown. Do not overcrowd.
- Coat & Serve: Remove cooked donut holes and immediately toss in cinnamon sugar. Serve warm for best results.
Tips & Variations
- Sticky Batter: This is intentional for light, fluffy donuts — don’t add extra flour.
- Oil Temperature: Too hot = burned outside, raw inside. Too cool = greasy donuts. Use a thermometer!
- Filling Option: Pipe in fruit jam, lemon curd, or Nutella for filled donut holes.
- Flavor Variations: Add citrus zest or extracts to the batter for a twist. Chocolate chips are also a fun addition.
- Alternative Coatings: Swap cinnamon sugar for powdered sugar or a sweet glaze.
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store cooled donut holes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Microwave briefly (5–10 seconds) to restore softness and warmth.
These Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes are simple, fast, and dangerously delicious — perfect for anyone craving a homemade, warm, sweet treat without the fuss of yeast dough.