Looking for a tasty treat that’s easy to make? Let’s whip up some Air Fryer Maple Cinnamon Donut Holes! These soft, sweet bites are perfect for breakfast or a snack. You’ll love how simple the process is. With just a few ingredients and my step-by-step guide, you’ll be enjoying fresh, delicious donut holes in no time. Ready to dive into this fun recipe? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 large egg, at room temperature
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
Coating Ingredients
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
These simple ingredients come together to create a delicious treat. The dry ingredients give the donut holes their structure and sweetness. Flour, sugar, and baking powder work together to rise and create a soft bite. The ground cinnamon adds a warm flavor that pairs well with maple.
The wet ingredients add moisture and sweetness. Whole milk keeps the donut holes fluffy. Pure maple syrup gives them a rich, sweet taste that is hard to resist. The egg binds everything together, while melted butter adds richness.
For the coating, a mix of powdered sugar and cinnamon brings a sweet finish. Tossing the warm donut holes in this mixture makes them even more delightful. Enjoy this tasty treat made with love and simple ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Mixing the Dry and Wet Ingredients
Start by gathering your dry ingredients. In a large bowl, mix together:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Whisk these items until they blend well. Make sure there are no lumps. In another bowl, combine your wet ingredients:
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 large egg, at room temperature
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
Whisk these until smooth. Now, slowly pour the wet mix into the dry mix. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Some lumps are okay, so don’t overmix.
Preheating the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This step takes about 3-5 minutes. A well-preheated fryer helps the donuts cook evenly and become golden brown.
Formation and Baking of Donut Holes
Now, it’s time to shape your donut holes. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form the dough into balls. Aim for about 1 inch in diameter. This size cooks perfectly in the air fryer.
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the donut holes in a single layer in the basket. Make sure they don’t touch each other. Depending on your air fryer’s size, you may need to cook in batches.
Air fry the donut holes for 8-10 minutes. Check them by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when they’re done. If they look golden brown, they are ready!
While they bake, get your cinnamon-sugar coating ready. In a shallow bowl, mix together:
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Once the donut holes are done, let them cool for about 1 minute. This helps you avoid burns. Toss the warm donut holes in the cinnamon-sugar mix, ensuring they’re coated on all sides. Enjoy the sweet treat!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Texture
To get the best texture, use room temperature egg and milk. This helps the batter mix better. Mix the dry and wet ingredients gently. Overmixing can lead to tough donut holes. You want some lumps to stay in the batter. They will bake up nice and fluffy.
Preventing Sticking in the Air Fryer
To stop the donut holes from sticking, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. This simple step prevents mess and helps with easy cleanup. Arrange the donut holes in a single layer. Make sure they aren’t touching each other. This ensures even cooking and a nice golden color.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your donut holes in a small basket lined with parchment paper. For a fun twist, drizzle warm maple syrup over them. A sprinkle of cinnamon on top adds a nice touch. These donut holes are perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. Enjoy sharing them with friends and family!
Variations
Flavored Donut Holes
You can change the flavor of your donut holes easily. Add a splash of vanilla extract to the wet mix for a sweet touch. Want a fruity flavor? Stir in some lemon or orange zest. For a chocolate twist, mix in cocoa powder with the dry ingredients. You can even add spices like nutmeg or ginger for a warm flavor. Each choice adds a unique taste to your donut holes.
Toppings Beyond Cinnamon-Sugar
While cinnamon-sugar is classic, don’t stop there! Try a chocolate glaze made from melted chocolate chips. It’s rich and sweet. A sprinkle of crushed nuts adds crunch and flavor. You can also drizzle caramel or white chocolate for a fun twist. For a fruity topping, mash some berries and drizzle them over the warm donut holes. These toppings can make each bite a new adventure.
Healthier Ingredient Swaps
You can make your donut holes healthier without losing taste. Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for more fiber. Instead of granulated sugar, use honey or agave syrup. They add sweetness, and they’re more natural. Use almond milk or oat milk instead of whole milk for a dairy-free option. You can even replace butter with applesauce for a lower-fat choice. These simple swaps keep the treat delicious and light.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Donut Holes
To keep your leftover donut holes fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps lock in moisture. You can place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Keep them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want them fresh for longer, refrigerate them for up to a week.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your donut holes, use your air fryer for the best results. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the donut holes in the basket for about 3-5 minutes. This brings back their warmth and crispness. If using a microwave, heat them for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, or they may become tough.
Freezing Donut Holes
You can freeze donut holes for a tasty treat later. First, let them cool completely. Then, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze them for about an hour. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply reheat them as mentioned above.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use other flours. Almond flour and oat flour work well. Each flour gives a different flavor and texture. Almond flour makes them nutty and moist. Oat flour can add a wholesome taste. Adjust the amount of liquid if needed since different flours absorb moisture differently.
How do I know when the donut holes are done?
Check the color of the donut holes. They should be golden brown. Use a toothpick to test for doneness. Insert it into a donut hole; it should come out clean. If it has wet batter on it, they need more time in the air fryer.
Can I make these donuts in advance?
Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time. Make the dough and form the donut holes. Chill them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, just air fry them as directed. They will taste fresh and delicious!
You’ve learned about the key ingredients for making delicious donut holes. We covered dry and wet ingredients, plus coating options. The step-by-step instructions guide you through mixing and baking them in an air fryer. I shared tips for the perfect texture and how to avoid sticking. You can also explore fun variations with flavors and toppings. Lastly, I included how to store and reheat leftover donut holes. Now, it’s time to get creative and enjoy homemade treats. Happy baking!
