These warm, bite-sized treats are soft, fluffy, and rolled in a sweet cinnamon sugar coating that makes every bite irresistible. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these homemade donut holes bring bakery-level goodness right to your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simple ingredients and easy steps
No special equipment required
Crispy outside, soft and airy inside
Perfect for any occasion or craving
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg
Vegetable oil, for frying
½ cup granulated sugar (for coating)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
Directions
In a bowl, whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, mix milk, melted butter, vanilla, and egg.
Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough into the oil, frying until golden brown (about 2–3 minutes per side).
Drain on paper towels.
Mix cinnamon and sugar in a bowl, then roll warm donut holes in the mixture until coated.
Servings and timing
Makes about 20–24 donut holes.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
Add a pinch of nutmeg to the dough for extra warmth.
Fill the donut holes with jam or Nutella using a piping bag.
Try rolling them in powdered sugar instead of cinnamon sugar for a lighter flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store cooled donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
To reheat, warm them in the oven at 300°F for 5–7 minutes or briefly microwave them for 10–15 seconds.
FAQs
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, bake at 375°F for 12–15 minutes until golden.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before frying.
Why are my donut holes raw inside?
Your oil may be too hot. Keep it at a steady 350°F.
Can I use an air fryer?
Yes, air fry at 350°F for about 8 minutes, turning halfway through.
What oil is best for frying?
Vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil are best for neutral flavor and high smoke point.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Can I make them dairy-free?
Substitute milk with almond or oat milk and butter with margarine or coconut oil.
Can I freeze them?
Yes, freeze after frying and cooling. Reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
How do I know when the oil is ready?
A small piece of dough should sizzle and rise to the surface within seconds.
What’s the best way to coat them evenly?
Roll the donut holes in cinnamon sugar while still warm.
Conclusion
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes are the perfect mix of simplicity and indulgence. With their crisp coating and soft, pillowy center, they’re an easy treat that everyone will adore—whether for a weekend breakfast or a sweet snack any time of day.
These cinnamon sugar donut holes are soft, fluffy, and fried to golden perfection, then rolled in a sweet cinnamon sugar coating—perfect for breakfast, dessert, or snacking.
Author:Sophia
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:20–24 donut holes
Category:Breakfast
Method:Frying
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
¼ cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
¾ cup milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg
Vegetable oil, for frying
½ cup granulated sugar (for coating)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
Instructions
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
Drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough into the hot oil. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown.
Remove donut holes with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Mix ½ cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a bowl.
Roll warm donut holes in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
Notes
Ensure oil stays at 350°F to cook evenly without burning the outside.
Roll donuts in sugar while still warm for best coating adhesion.
Add a pinch of nutmeg to the dough for a flavor boost.
Fill cooled donut holes with jam or Nutella using a piping bag for a surprise center.
Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
