Air Fryer Donut Holes Recipe

Let me tell you, there are few things in life that bring as much instant happiness as a warm, freshly made donut hole. But let’s be honest, the thought of deep-frying often deters even the most enthusiastic bakers (and eaters!). Grease splatters, lingering oil smells, and the inevitable guilt that comes with indulging in a deep-fried treat can be a real downer. That’s where the magic of the air fryer comes in! My family and I are self-proclaimed donut lovers, and we’ve tried countless recipes over the years. But these Air Fryer Donut Holes? They’ve become an absolute game-changer. Imagine biting into a perfectly golden-brown, slightly crisp exterior that gives way to a soft, fluffy, and utterly delicious interior – all without a drop of deep-frying oil. The first time I made these, my kids were practically doing backflips. They devoured them in minutes, and even my usually health-conscious husband couldn’t resist sneaking a few (or maybe more than a few!). The best part? They are incredibly easy and quick to make, making them perfect for a weekend brunch, a fun dessert, or even a special weekday treat. Trust me, once you try these Air Fryer Donut Holes, you’ll be hooked. Get ready to experience donut hole perfection, the air fryer way!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Donut Holes

To embark on your air fryer donut hole adventure, you’ll need a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its accessibility; you likely have most, if not all, of these items already in your kitchen! Let’s break down each ingredient and why it plays a crucial role in creating the perfect donut hole:

• 1 ½ cups All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our donut holes! All-purpose flour provides the structure and chewiness we expect in a classic donut. It strikes the perfect balance between gluten development for a satisfying texture and tenderness for a delightful bite. For best results, ensure your flour is fresh and properly measured. Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a straight edge to avoid using too much flour, which can lead to dry donut holes. If you want to experiment with a slightly different texture, you could substitute a portion of the all-purpose flour with cake flour for an even more tender crumb, or whole wheat pastry flour for a slightly nuttier flavor and added fiber. However, for classic donut holes, all-purpose flour is the way to go.
• ¼ cup Granulated Sugar: Sugar is not just for sweetness; it also contributes to the tenderness and browning of the donut holes. The granulated sugar dissolves into the dough, creating a moist interior and helping to caramelize the exterior during air frying, resulting in that beautiful golden-brown color we all crave. You can adjust the amount of sugar slightly to your preference, but ¼ cup provides a balanced sweetness that isn’t overpowering. For a slightly richer flavor, you could experiment with substituting a tablespoon or two of granulated sugar with brown sugar, which will add a subtle molasses note to the donut holes.
• 2 teaspoons Baking Powder: The secret ingredient to achieving light and fluffy donut holes! Baking powder is a chemical leavening agent that creates air bubbles in the dough as it cooks, resulting in a soft and airy texture. It’s crucial to use fresh baking powder for optimal results. To test if your baking powder is still active, drop a teaspoon into a cup of hot water. If it fizzes vigorously, it’s good to go! If not, it’s time to replace it. Using the correct amount of baking powder is also essential; too little and your donut holes will be dense and flat, too much and they might have a slightly bitter taste.
• ½ teaspoon Salt: Salt might seem like a minor ingredient in a sweet treat, but it plays a vital role in enhancing the flavors and balancing the sweetness. Salt also helps to control the yeast activity (if using yeast in a different recipe) and strengthens the gluten structure, contributing to the overall texture of the donut holes. Use fine sea salt or table salt for this recipe. If using kosher salt, you may need to use slightly more as it is less dense.
• ½ cup Milk: Milk adds moisture to the dough, binding the dry ingredients together and contributing to the soft and tender texture of the donut holes. You can use any type of milk you prefer – whole milk, 2% milk, skim milk, or even plant-based milk alternatives like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Whole milk will result in a slightly richer flavor and texture, but other types of milk will work just as well. If you’re using a plant-based milk, ensure it is unsweetened to avoid adding extra sweetness to the recipe.
• 2 tablespoons Melted Butter: Butter adds richness, flavor, and tenderness to the donut holes. Melted butter incorporates easily into the dough and contributes to a moist and slightly buttery crumb. You can use unsalted or salted butter – if using salted butter, you may want to slightly reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe. For a dairy-free option, you can substitute the butter with melted coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Make sure the butter is melted and slightly cooled before adding it to the dough to prevent it from cooking the eggs (if eggs were in the recipe, which they are not in this simplified version).
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the donut holes, adding a touch of warmth and sweetness. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. You can also experiment with other extracts, such as almond extract, lemon extract, or even a combination of vanilla and nutmeg for a more spiced flavor profile. If you don’t have vanilla extract on hand, you can omit it, but it does add a noticeable depth of flavor to the donut holes.
• For Coating (Optional but Highly Recommended):
  • ¼ cup Melted Butter: Brushing the warm donut holes with melted butter before coating them in sugar helps the coating adhere better and adds an extra layer of richness and flavor. Again, you can use unsalted or salted butter, or a dairy-free alternative like melted coconut oil or vegan butter.
  • ½ cup Granulated Sugar: The classic and most beloved coating for donut holes! Granulated sugar provides a sweet, slightly crunchy coating that perfectly complements the soft interior of the donut holes. You can use regular granulated sugar, or for a finer coating, you can use caster sugar or superfine sugar.
  • 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Optional): Cinnamon sugar is a classic donut hole coating that adds warmth and spice. Mix ground cinnamon with the granulated sugar for a traditional cinnamon sugar coating. You can adjust the amount of cinnamon to your preference – some people prefer a more subtle cinnamon flavor, while others like a stronger cinnamon kick. Other spices you could experiment with include nutmeg, cardamom, or even a pinch of ginger.

These simple ingredients, when combined and air-fried to perfection, transform into delightful donut holes that are sure to satisfy your sweet cravings without the guilt of deep-frying. Make sure to gather all your ingredients before you begin, and let’s get ready to make some magic in the air fryer!

Instructions: Making Air Fryer Donut Holes

Now for the fun part – bringing all those wonderful ingredients together and transforming them into delicious Air Fryer Donut Holes! These instructions are designed to be clear, easy to follow, and ensure your success in creating perfect donut holes every time. Let’s get baking!

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisking is important to ensure the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour, preventing clumps and ensuring consistent leavening. This step also aerates the flour, which can contribute to a lighter texture.
2. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Make sure the melted butter is slightly cooled before adding it to the milk to prevent it from curdling or affecting the texture.
3. Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour too much, resulting in tough donut holes. Mix until the ingredients are just incorporated and a shaggy dough forms. It’s okay if there are still some streaks of flour visible at this stage.
4. Form a Soft Dough: Continue to gently knead the dough in the bowl for about 1-2 minutes, or until it comes together into a soft, slightly sticky dough. You can also turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it there. The dough should be soft and pliable but not overly sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it’s easier to handle.

Step 2: Shape the Donut Holes

1. Portion the Dough: There are a couple of ways to shape the donut holes. You can pinch off small pieces of dough, about 1-inch in size, and roll them into smooth balls with your hands. Alternatively, for more uniform donut holes, you can use a small cookie scoop or a teaspoon to portion out the dough.
2. Roll into Balls (Optional): If you want perfectly round donut holes, gently roll each portion of dough between your palms to form a smooth ball. Don’t worry too much about perfection; slightly rustic donut holes are just as delicious!
3. Place on Parchment Paper: Line a plate or baking sheet with parchment paper and place the shaped donut holes on it. This prevents them from sticking to the surface and makes them easier to transfer to the air fryer basket.

Step 3: Air Fry the Donut Holes

1. Preheat Air Fryer (Optional but Recommended): While not strictly necessary for all air fryers, preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes can help ensure even cooking and a crispier exterior. Check your air fryer manufacturer’s instructions to see if preheating is recommended.
2. Arrange Donut Holes in Air Fryer Basket: Place the donut holes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving some space between them to allow for proper air circulation. Avoid overcrowding the basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking and soggy donut holes. You may need to cook the donut holes in batches depending on the size of your air fryer basket.
3. Air Fry to Golden Brown: Air fry the donut holes at 350°F (175°C) for 6-8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The exact cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model and the size of your donut holes. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time to prevent them from burning. You can gently shake the air fryer basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
4. Check for Doneness: To check if the donut holes are cooked through, insert a toothpick into the center of one. If it comes out clean, they are done. The donut holes should be golden brown on the outside and slightly springy to the touch.

Step 4: Coat the Donut Holes (Optional but Delicious)

1. Melt Butter (if coating): If you are coating the donut holes, melt the butter in a small bowl.
2. Prepare Sugar Coating (if coating): In another shallow bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon (if using) for the coating.
3. Brush with Butter (if coating): As soon as the donut holes are out of the air fryer, brush them generously with melted butter using a pastry brush or a spoon. This helps the sugar coating stick better and adds extra flavor.
4. Coat in Sugar Mixture (if coating): Immediately toss the warm, buttered donut holes in the sugar mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated on all sides. You can use tongs or a spoon to toss them, or gently roll them in the sugar mixture.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Air Fryer Donut Holes warm and enjoy! They are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. However, they are most delicious when freshly made and still slightly warm.

Congratulations! You’ve just made delicious Air Fryer Donut Holes. These simple steps, combined with the magic of the air fryer, will result in a treat that’s sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy the warm, fluffy, and guilt-free goodness!

Nutrition Facts for Air Fryer Donut Holes

Understanding the nutritional content of your favorite treats can help you make informed choices and enjoy them in moderation. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutrition facts for one serving of Air Fryer Donut Holes, based on this recipe. Please note that these are estimates and can vary depending on ingredient substitutions and portion sizes.

Serving Size: Approximately 3 donut holes

Servings Per Recipe: About 8-10 servings (depending on the size of your donut holes, this recipe typically yields around 24-30 donut holes)

Approximate Nutrition Facts Per Serving (3 donut holes, uncoated):

• Calories: 180-220 kcal
• Total Fat: 8-10g
  • Saturated Fat: 5-6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3-4g
• Cholesterol: 25-30mg
• Sodium: 150-200mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 25-30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0.5-1g
  • Sugars: 8-10g
• Protein: 2-3g

Approximate Nutrition Facts Per Serving (3 donut holes, coated in cinnamon sugar):

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Total Fat: 9-11g
  • Saturated Fat: 5-7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3-4g
• Cholesterol: 25-30mg
• Sodium: 150-200mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 40-45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0.5-1g
  • Sugars: 20-25g
• Protein: 2-3g

Key Nutritional Considerations:

• Lower in Fat than Deep-Fried Donuts: Compared to traditional deep-fried donut holes, these air fryer versions are significantly lower in fat, as they are cooked with minimal oil. This makes them a healthier alternative for satisfying your donut cravings.
• Moderate Calorie Content: While lower in fat, the calorie content is still moderate, especially when coated in sugar. Portion control is key to enjoying these donut holes as part of a balanced diet.
• Source of Carbohydrates: Donut holes are primarily a source of carbohydrates, providing quick energy.
• Limited Fiber and Protein: They are relatively low in fiber and protein. To balance your meal or snack, consider pairing them with fruit, yogurt, or a protein-rich beverage.
• Sugar Content: The sugar content is moderate, and increases significantly when coated in sugar. If you are watching your sugar intake, you can reduce the sugar in the dough slightly, use less coating, or opt for a sugar-free sweetener for the coating.

Tips for Making Healthier Air Fryer Donut Holes:

• Reduce Sugar: Decrease the sugar in the dough by a tablespoon or two. You can also use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia in the dough and coating.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour to increase the fiber content.
• Unsweetened Applesauce: Replace a tablespoon or two of melted butter with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat and add moisture.
• Spice it Up: Use spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to add flavor without adding extra sugar.
• Fruit Topping: Instead of a heavy sugar coating, top your donut holes with fresh berries or a light fruit compote for added nutrients and fiber.

Remember, even healthier versions of treats should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. These nutrition facts provide a guide to help you make informed choices and enjoy your Air Fryer Donut Holes responsibly!

Preparation Time for Air Fryer Donut Holes

One of the best things about Air Fryer Donut Holes, besides their deliciousness, is how quick and easy they are to make. Perfect for those moments when you crave a sweet treat but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen! Here’s a breakdown of the preparation time:

• Prep Time (Mixing and Shaping Dough): 15-20 minutes
  • This includes measuring out the ingredients, mixing the wet and dry components, kneading the dough briefly, and shaping the donut holes into balls. The dough comes together quickly and requires minimal kneading, making this step very efficient.
• Cook Time (Air Frying): 6-8 minutes per batch
  • The actual air frying time is relatively short, typically around 6-8 minutes per batch, depending on your air fryer and the size of the donut holes. You may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
• Coating Time (Optional): 5-10 minutes
  • If you choose to coat your donut holes, this step adds an extra 5-10 minutes to the overall preparation time. Brushing with butter and tossing in sugar is a quick and easy process.

Total Time (from start to finish): Approximately 25-35 minutes (including coating)

Breakdown of Time Allocation:

• Active Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
  • This is the time you are actively involved in the recipe – measuring, mixing, shaping, and coating.
• Inactive Time: Approximately 0 minutes
  • There is virtually no inactive time in this recipe. While the donut holes are air frying, you can prepare the coating or clean up your workspace.

Time-Saving Tips:

• Pre-Measure Ingredients: To speed up the prep time, measure out all your ingredients before you start mixing. This will streamline the process and make it even faster.
• Use a Cookie Scoop: Using a small cookie scoop or teaspoon to portion out the dough will create more uniform donut holes and save time compared to manually shaping each one.
• Work in Batches: While air frying in batches might seem like it takes longer, it actually ensures even cooking and prevents soggy donut holes. It’s more efficient to cook in batches than to overcrowd the air fryer basket.
• Skip the Coating (for even faster prep): If you are really short on time, you can skip the butter and sugar coating altogether. The donut holes are still delicious plain or can be enjoyed with a simple dusting of powdered sugar.

As you can see, Air Fryer Donut Holes are a truly quick and easy treat to make. In under 30 minutes, you can have warm, freshly made donut holes ready to enjoy. This makes them perfect for last-minute cravings, impromptu gatherings, or a fun weekend baking project with the family. Enjoy the speed and simplicity of this delightful recipe!

How to Serve Air Fryer Donut Holes

Air Fryer Donut Holes are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to suit any occasion. From classic and simple to decadent and elaborate, here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your donut hole experience:

Classic and Simple Servings:

• Cinnamon Sugar Coating: The quintessential donut hole coating! As described in the recipe, a simple mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon is always a winner. Warm, buttery donut holes tossed in cinnamon sugar – pure comfort food.
• Powdered Sugar Dusted: For a lighter and equally delightful option, simply dust the warm donut holes with powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar). This creates a delicate sweetness and a beautiful snowy appearance.
• Plain and Simple: Believe it or not, these air fryer donut holes are delicious even plain! Their slightly sweet and vanilla-infused flavor shines through, making them a perfect light treat on their own.

Elevated and Decadent Servings:

• Chocolate Glaze: Drizzle warm donut holes with a rich chocolate glaze for a truly indulgent treat. You can use dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or even white chocolate for different flavor profiles. For an extra touch, sprinkle with chocolate shavings or sprinkles.
• Vanilla Glaze: A classic vanilla glaze adds a creamy sweetness that complements the donut holes perfectly. Make a simple glaze with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
• Maple Glaze: For a warm and cozy flavor, try a maple glaze. Combine powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a touch of milk for a delightful autumnal twist.
• Caramel Glaze: A decadent caramel glaze adds a rich, buttery sweetness that takes these donut holes to the next level. You can use store-bought caramel sauce or make your own homemade caramel glaze.
• Lemon Glaze: A bright and zesty lemon glaze provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the donut holes. Combine powdered sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest for a vibrant glaze.

Fun and Creative Servings:

• Donut Hole Skewers: Thread donut holes onto skewers and serve them with a variety of dipping sauces, such as chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, raspberry sauce, or even yogurt dips. This makes them fun for parties and gatherings.
• Donut Hole Parfaits: Layer donut holes in parfait glasses with whipped cream, fresh berries, and your favorite sauces for a delightful and visually appealing dessert.
• Donut Hole Sundaes: Top a scoop of your favorite ice cream with warm donut holes, hot fudge sauce, whipped cream, and sprinkles for an ultimate sundae experience.
• Coffee and Donut Hole Pairing: Serve warm donut holes alongside a cup of hot coffee, cappuccino, or latte for a classic and comforting breakfast or brunch treat.
• Tea and Donut Hole Pairing: Pair donut holes with a cup of herbal tea or black tea for a delightful afternoon snack or dessert.

Serving Temperature:

• Warm: Air Fryer Donut Holes are best served warm, shortly after they are cooked and coated. The warmth enhances their texture and flavor.
• Room Temperature: They are still enjoyable at room temperature, especially if you are serving them later in the day.

Garnishes and Toppings:

• Sprinkles: Add a festive touch with colorful sprinkles on glazed or coated donut holes.
• Chocolate Shavings: Garnish chocolate-glazed donut holes with dark, milk, or white chocolate shavings.
• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds on glazed donut holes for added texture and flavor.
• Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut flakes add a tropical touch to glazed donut holes.
• Fresh Berries: Serve donut holes with a side of fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries for a burst of freshness and color.

No matter how you choose to serve them, Air Fryer Donut Holes are guaranteed to be a hit. Get creative, experiment with different coatings and toppings, and enjoy the deliciousness of these guilt-free treats!

Additional Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Donut Holes

To ensure your Air Fryer Donut Holes turn out perfectly every time, here are five additional tips and tricks to keep in mind:

1. Don’t Overmix the Dough: As mentioned in the instructions, resist the urge to overmix the dough. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can result in tough and chewy donut holes instead of light and fluffy ones. Mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined, and then gently knead for a minute or two until the dough comes together. A slightly shaggy or slightly sticky dough is perfectly fine – in fact, it often leads to more tender donut holes.
2. Ensure Even Sizing for Consistent Cooking: For even cooking, try to make your donut holes roughly the same size. Using a small cookie scoop or teaspoon to portion out the dough is a great way to achieve uniformity. Consistent sizing ensures that all the donut holes cook at the same rate and are done at the same time, preventing some from being undercooked and others from being overcooked.
3. Avoid Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket: It’s crucial to air fry the donut holes in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Overcrowding restricts air circulation, which leads to uneven cooking and can result in soggy or undercooked donut holes. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure each donut hole has enough space for the hot air to circulate around it and cook it evenly.
4. Adjust Cooking Time Based on Your Air Fryer: Air fryers can vary slightly in cooking times and temperatures. The recipe provides a guideline of 6-8 minutes at 350°F (175°C), but it’s essential to monitor your donut holes closely, especially the first time you make them. Start checking for doneness around 6 minutes and adjust the cooking time as needed based on your specific air fryer model and the size of your donut holes. Look for a golden-brown color and a slightly springy texture.
5. Coat While Warm for Best Adhesion: If you are coating your donut holes with butter and sugar or any other glaze, make sure to do it while they are still warm, immediately after they come out of the air fryer. The warmth helps the butter melt and the sugar or glaze adhere better to the surface of the donut holes. If you wait too long, the donut holes will cool down, and the coating may not stick as effectively.

By following these additional tips, you’ll be well on your way to making foolproof and utterly delicious Air Fryer Donut Holes every time. Happy air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Air Fryer Donut Holes

Got questions about making Air Fryer Donut Holes? You’re not alone! Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you troubleshoot and achieve donut hole perfection:

Q1: Can I make these donut holes ahead of time?

A: While Air Fryer Donut Holes are best enjoyed fresh and warm, you can make the dough ahead of time. Prepare the dough as instructed, then cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before shaping and air frying. Air-fried donut holes are best eaten the same day for optimal texture, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two, although they may lose some of their initial crispness.

Q2: Can I use a different type of flour?

A: This recipe is specifically formulated for all-purpose flour, which provides the ideal balance of gluten for a tender yet structured donut hole. You can experiment with substituting up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour for a slightly nuttier flavor and added fiber. Cake flour can also be used for an even more tender crumb, but may result in a slightly less structured donut hole. We don’t recommend using only whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends without significant recipe adjustments, as these flours behave differently and may require changes in liquid ratios and leavening agents.

Q3: My donut holes are dry. What did I do wrong?

A: Dry donut holes are often a result of using too much flour. Make sure you are measuring your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off, rather than scooping directly from the bag. Overbaking can also lead to dry donut holes, so ensure you are not air frying them for too long. Check for doneness around 6 minutes and adjust the cooking time as needed. Finally, overmixing the dough can also contribute to dryness, as it develops the gluten too much.

Q4: Can I freeze Air Fryer Donut Holes?

A: While freshly made donut holes are always best, you can freeze air-fried donut holes for longer storage. Allow the donut holes to cool completely after air frying. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Once frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight freezer bag or container. Frozen donut holes are best reheated in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. Keep in mind that freezing and reheating may slightly alter the texture. It’s best to freeze them uncoated and add the coating after reheating.

Q5: Can I make these donut holes vegan or dairy-free?

A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan or dairy-free! Simply substitute the milk with a plant-based milk alternative like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Replace the melted butter with melted coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Ensure your vanilla extract is also vegan-friendly (most are, but it’s always good to check). With these simple substitutions, you can enjoy delicious vegan Air Fryer Donut Holes.

We hope these FAQs have answered your questions and equipped you with the knowledge to confidently make perfect Air Fryer Donut Holes. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask – and happy baking (or rather, air frying)!

Print