Air Fryer Donut Holes Flavorful and Easy Recipe

Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with my easy Air Fryer Donut Holes recipe! These little bites of joy blend warm spices with a soft, fluffy texture. You'll whip them up in no time using simple ingredients. Whether you're a beginner or a pro in the kitchen, you'll find that making these treats is fun and rewarding. So, grab your air fryer and let's dive into this delicious adventure!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

- 1 cup all-purpose flour

- 1/2 cup granulated sugar

- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- 1/2 cup buttermilk

- 1 large egg

- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for dusting)

- Optional: Extra ground cinnamon (for dusting)

To make these air fryer donut holes, gather all of the ingredients. The base is simple. You will need all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Each of these adds texture and flavor.

The spices, ground nutmeg and ground cinnamon, bring warmth to your donut holes. Buttermilk gives a nice tang and keeps them moist. You also need a large egg for binding. Unsalted butter adds richness, while vanilla extract gives that lovely aroma.

The dusting is key for the final touch. You'll mix powdered sugar and granulated sugar. You can add extra cinnamon for a flavorful twist. With these ingredients, you’re ready to create something delightful. Enjoy the process!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mixing Dry Ingredients

First, grab a large bowl. In this bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisk these dry ingredients together until the mix is smooth and free of lumps. This step is key as it ensures even flavor in every bite.

Preparing Wet Ingredients

Next, take a separate bowl. In this bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of buttermilk, 1 large egg, 2 tablespoons of melted and cooled unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Make sure this mixture is smooth and well combined. The buttermilk gives the donut holes a nice fluffiness, while the butter adds richness.

Combining Mixtures and Cooking

Now, it’s time to blend the mixtures. Gradually pour the wet ingredient mix into the dry bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to stir until just combined. It’s okay if you see a few lumps; do not overmix.

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps to cook the donut holes evenly. Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a brush of oil to prevent sticking.

Using a teaspoon or a small cookie scoop, portion out about a tablespoon of dough for each donut hole. Carefully place them in the air fryer basket. Leave space between each one so they can expand while cooking.

Air fry the donut holes for 6 to 8 minutes. They should turn golden brown and be fully cooked when done. Depending on your air fryer size, you may need to do this in batches.

While the donut holes cook, mix granulated sugar and optional extra ground cinnamon in a small bowl for dusting. Once the donut holes are ready, quickly remove them from the air fryer. Roll each one in the cinnamon-sugar mix while they are still warm. This gives them a sweet, crunchy coating.

For a final touch, lightly dust the donut holes with 1/4 cup of powdered sugar just before serving. Enjoy your delicious air fryer donut holes!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Temperature and Time

Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This temperature cooks the donut holes perfectly. They need 6 to 8 minutes to become golden brown. Keep an eye on them. You'll know they are done when they look puffy and golden. A toothpick test works well too; it should come out clean.

Avoiding Overmixing

Lumps in your batter are okay! They help keep the donut holes soft. Mix gently with a spatula or spoon. Stir just until things blend. If you mix too much, your donut holes can turn out tough. Remember, a few lumps mean a light and fluffy treat.

Dusting Techniques

For the best coating, roll warm donut holes in a cinnamon-sugar mix. Use 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon. This mix sticks well when the holes are warm. Want to add flair? Try a light dusting of powdered sugar for sweetness. You can even drizzle melted chocolate for fun!

Variations

Flavor Variations

You can make these donut holes even better by adding extras. Try mixing in chocolate chips or fresh fruit like blueberries or raspberries. The chocolate will melt and create a sweet surprise. The fruit adds a burst of flavor and a nice texture.

You can also play with spices. Swap cinnamon for cardamom or add a pinch of ginger. Each spice will change the taste and give you a new treat. Don't be afraid to experiment!

Alternative Dusting Options

Dusting can really change the look and taste of your donut holes. You can use a glaze instead of powdered sugar. A simple glaze made with milk and sugar can add sweetness and shine.

For a twist, use flavored sugars. Mix granulated sugar with lemon zest or cocoa powder. This small change will give a new flavor to your donut holes and surprise your guests.

Healthier Versions

Want a healthier option? You can cut down on sugar. Use less granulated sugar in the dough or swap it for a sugar substitute. This keeps the taste while reducing calories.

You can also make gluten-free donut holes. Just use gluten-free flour in place of all-purpose flour. They will still taste great, and everyone can enjoy them!

Storage Info

Storing Leftover Donut Holes

To keep your donut holes fresh, store them in an airtight container. Use a container that seals tightly. Line the bottom with paper towels to absorb excess moisture. This keeps the donut holes from getting soggy. You can store them at room temperature for one day. If you want them to last longer, put them in the fridge. They will stay good for up to three days in the fridge.

Reheating Suggestions

To bring back the taste and texture of your donut holes, reheating is key. The air fryer is perfect for this task. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the donut holes in the basket for about 2 to 3 minutes. This will warm them up and make them crispy again. You can also use a microwave, but they might lose some crunch.

Shelf Life

Donut holes are best enjoyed fresh, but they have a decent shelf life. At room temperature, they stay fresh for about one day. In the fridge, they can last up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. When frozen, they can last for about two months. Just remember to thaw and reheat before enjoying!

FAQs

How do I know when air fryer donut holes are done?

Check for a golden brown color. This indicates they are cooked well. You can also insert a toothpick into a donut hole. If it comes out clean, they are ready.

For best results, I recommend air frying them for 6 to 8 minutes. Keep an eye on them. Each air fryer can cook a little differently. If they look puffy and light, that means they are done.

Can I freeze air fryer donut holes?

Yes, you can freeze air fryer donut holes! First, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. This step helps keep them from sticking together.

Once they are frozen, transfer the donut holes to an airtight container. They will last in the freezer for about three months. When you are ready to eat, reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes. This will bring back their warm, delicious texture.

What other air fryer recipes can I try?

You can explore many tasty air fryer recipes! Try air fryer apple fritters for a fruity kick. Or, make air fryer churros for a sweet treat.

You might also enjoy air fryer chocolate chip cookies for a classic dessert. For a savory option, check out air fryer mozzarella sticks. Each recipe offers a unique flavor and fun cooking experience!

In this post, we covered the ingredients, instructions, tips, variations, and storage for air fryer donut holes. You learned how to mix dry and wet ingredients and the best practices for cooking. Remember to avoid overmixing to keep your donut holes light and fluffy. Experiment with flavors or healthier versions that fit your taste. Store leftover donut holes properly to enjoy them later. With these steps, you can make delicious treats that satisfy your cravings anytime. Happy frying!