Air Fryer Donut Holes: Deliciously Easy Recipe for a Sweet Treat

Air Fryer Donut Holes are a delightful treat that brings the joy of freshly baked donuts right into your home, without the guilt of deep frying. As someone who has always had a sweet tooth, I can confidently say that these little bites of heaven are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. The air fryer method allows for a light and fluffy texture, while still delivering that classic donut flavor we all crave.

Historically, donut holes have been a beloved snack in many cultures, often enjoyed with coffee or as a sweet indulgence during celebrations. People love Air Fryer Donut Holes for their convenience; they come together quickly and require minimal cleanup. Plus, the air fryer ensures that they are perfectly cooked, with a golden exterior and a soft, pillowy inside. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch gathering or simply treating yourself, these Air Fryer Donut Holes are sure to impress and satisfy your sweet cravings!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

Preparing the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, I start by combining the dry ingredients. I add 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Using a whisk, I mix these ingredients together until they are well combined. This step is crucial as it ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour. 2. In a separate bowl, I whisk together the wet ingredients. I pour in 1/4 cup of milk, crack in 1 large egg, add 2 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. I mix these ingredients until they are fully combined and smooth. 3. Next, I pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spatula, I gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ones. I take care not to overmix; I just want to combine them until there are no dry spots left. The dough will be slightly sticky, and that’s perfectly fine!

Shaping the Donut Holes

4. Once the dough is ready, I lightly flour my work surface to prevent sticking. I turn the dough out onto the floured surface and gently knead it for about 30 seconds. I want to bring it together into a cohesive ball without overworking it. 5. After kneading, I roll the dough out to about 1/2 inch thick. Using a round cookie cutter or a glass, I cut out circles from the dough. I usually aim for about 1.5 to 2 inches in diameter. 6. To create the holes, I use a smaller round cutter or the end of a piping tip to cut out the center of each circle. I gather the scraps and re-roll them to cut out more donut holes until I’ve used up all the dough.

Preparing the Air Fryer

7. While I’m shaping the donut holes, I preheat my air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This step is important as it ensures that the donut holes cook evenly and get that lovely golden color. 8. Once preheated, I lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. I make sure to coat it evenly.

Cooking the Donut Holes

9. I carefully place the donut holes in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave some space between each one. This allows the hot air to circulate properly and ensures they cook evenly. Depending on the size of my air fryer, I may need to cook them in batches. 10. I set the timer for 5 minutes and let them cook. After 5 minutes, I check on them. If they’re not golden brown yet, I give them an additional 2-3 minutes. The goal is to achieve a nice golden color and a fluffy texture. 11. Once they are done, I carefully remove the donut holes from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes on a wire rack.

Coating the Donut Holes

12. While the donut holes are cooling, I prepare the coating. In a small bowl, I mix together 1/4 cup of powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This will give the donut holes a sweet and slightly spicy flavor. 13. Once the donut holes have cooled slightly, I toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. I do this by placing a few donut holes at a time in the bowl with the mixture and gently shaking it until they are fully coated. I repeat this process until all the donut holes are coated.

Serving the Donut Holes

14. Now that my air fryer donut holes are ready, I arrange them on a serving plate. They are best enjoyed warm, but they can also be stored in an airtight container for a couple of days. 15. I love serving these donut holes with a side of coffee or hot

Conclusion:

In summary, these Air Fryer Donut Holes are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a sweet treat without the guilt of deep frying. They are incredibly easy to make, and the air fryer gives them that perfect golden-brown exterior while keeping them soft and fluffy on the inside. Plus, you can customize them to your heart’s content! Whether you prefer a classic cinnamon sugar coating, a rich chocolate glaze, or even a fruity icing, the possibilities are endless. I highly recommend serving these delightful donut holes warm, perhaps alongside a cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a delightful breakfast or snack. You can also experiment with different flavorings in the dough, such as vanilla or nutmeg, to create your own signature version. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how your Air Fryer Donut Holes turn out and what variations you come up with! So roll up your sleeves, grab your air fryer, and get ready to enjoy a delicious treat that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!

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