Are you ready to fall in love with a sweet treat? My Cinnamon Sugar Maple Glazed Donut Holes are soft, fluffy, and coated in a warm, sugary goodness. They make the perfect snack for any time of day! In this post, I’ll share simple steps for making these delightful bites, including helpful tips and variations. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy, delicious recipe!
Ingredients
List of Main Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 3/4 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
– Additional granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for coating
Ingredient Substitutions
– Flour alternatives: You can use whole wheat flour or almond flour if needed.
– Sweeteners variations: Swap granulated sugar with brown sugar or coconut sugar for a richer flavor.
– Dairy-free options: Use almond milk or oat milk in place of regular milk. Substitute the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free spread.
These ingredients come together to create a delightful treat. Each one plays an important role in flavor and texture. The all-purpose flour gives structure, while the butter adds richness. The egg helps bind the dough, and the maple syrup lends a sweet, warm taste. If you can’t find a specific item, try using one of the substitutions mentioned above. This way, you can still enjoy these tasty cinnamon sugar maple glazed donut holes!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a mini muffin pan or a donut hole pan. Lightly grease it with cooking spray. This step helps the donut holes pop out easily after baking.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the following dry items:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Whisk these together well. Proper mixing gives your donut holes a nice uniform texture. Whisking is key! It adds air and makes your batter lighter.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix:
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
– 1 large egg, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup milk, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
Whisk until smooth. Make sure your butter cools a bit before adding eggs. This avoids cooking them. Room temperature helps mix better too!
Blending and Filling the Pan
Slowly pour the wet mix into the dry mix. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to stir gently. Stop when just combined. A few lumps are okay! Overmixing makes tough donut holes.
Now, fill each pan cavity about two-thirds full. You can use a spoon or a piping bag for this. A piping bag gives you more control.
Baking the Donut Holes
Put the filled pan in your preheated oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes. They should turn lightly golden. Use a toothpick to check doneness. It should come out clean.
Preparing the Glaze and Coating
While baking, whisk together:
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Mix until smooth. This glaze adds a sweet touch.
For the cinnamon sugar coating, mix:
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Once the donut holes cool for about 5 minutes, roll them in the cinnamon sugar. This creates a delicious outer layer. Drizzle the maple glaze over the top for extra sweetness. Enjoy the delightful flavors!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Texture
To make the best donut holes, avoid overmixing your batter. Mix it just until you see no dry flour. This keeps your donut holes soft. Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing. Cold ingredients can lead to lumpy batter. Let your eggs and milk sit out for 30 minutes before you start.
Storage and Reheating Suggestions
Store your donut holes in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet first. Once frozen, move them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in an oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. This warms them without making them soggy.
Presentation Ideas
Make your donut holes look great! Arrange them on a decorative plate or a tiered stand. This catches the eye and makes them look fancy. You can also sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top for a professional touch. A drizzle of maple glaze adds even more appeal and sweetness.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can make these donut holes even more special. Try adding spices like nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a warm twist. These spices enhance the sweetness and bring a cozy feel. You can also incorporate citrus zest, like orange or lemon. This adds a fresh note that brightens the flavor.
Healthier Alternatives
Want a healthier treat? You can reduce the sugar in the recipe. This makes the donut holes less sweet but still tasty. Another option is to use whole wheat flour. It adds fiber and a nutty flavor, making your donut holes a bit more wholesome.
Different Glaze Options
Switch up the glaze for new tastes. A chocolate glaze can add a rich, decadent touch. To make it, simply melt chocolate with a bit of cream. For something unique, try a maple-bourbon glaze. Mix maple syrup with a splash of bourbon for a bold flavor that pairs well with the donuts.
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To keep your Cinnamon Sugar Maple Glazed Donut Holes fresh for a few days, follow these tips:
– Allow the donut holes to cool completely after baking.
– Place them in an airtight container.
– Store at room temperature for up to three days.
– If you live in a humid area, consider refrigerating them to prevent sogginess.
Freezing Donut Holes
For long-term storage, freezing is a great option. Here’s how to do it:
– Let the donut holes cool completely.
– Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet.
– Freeze them for about two hours until solid.
– Transfer the frozen donut holes to a freezer-safe bag or container.
– Label with the date and freeze for up to three months.
To thaw and reheat your donut holes:
– Remove the desired amount from the freezer.
– Let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
– For a warm treat, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
– Enjoy them with fresh glaze or cinnamon sugar!
FAQs
How do I make sure my donut holes are fluffy?
To keep your donut holes light, focus on a few key tips:
– Use room temperature ingredients. Warm eggs and milk mix better.
– Don’t overmix the batter. Stir until just combined. A few lumps are okay.
– Bake at the right temperature. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Fill the pan correctly. Only fill each cavity two-thirds full. This allows room to rise.
Can I make these donut holes ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep these donut holes in advance:
– Make the batter ahead. Store it in the fridge for a few hours.
– Bake ahead of time. Keep them in an airtight container for up to two days.
– Glaze just before serving. This keeps the donut holes fresh and tasty.
Where can I buy Cinnamon Sugar Maple Donut Holes?
You can find these delightful treats at many places:
– Local bakeries. Check for shops that specialize in donuts.
– Farmers markets. Some vendors sell homemade treats.
– Grocery stores. Look in the bakery section for fresh options.
Can I use a regular muffin pan instead?
You can use a muffin pan, but here are some points to consider:
– Pros: A muffin pan is easier to find and use.
– Cons: Donut holes may be larger and less round.
– Baking time may vary. Keep an eye on them as they bake. Adjust the time if needed.
You learned how to create delightful cinnamon sugar maple donut holes. We covered the main ingredients, alternatives, and step-by-step instructions for baking. You now have tips for perfect texture, storage, and presentation. Remember to experiment with flavors and glazes for variety. Whether you want a sweet treat or a healthier twist, this recipe fits the bill. Enjoy your baking adventure and delight your taste buds with these delicious donut holes!
