Are you ready for a simple yet tasty treat? These Cinnamon Sugar Baked Donut Holes are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a lovely blend of cinnamon and sugar, they offer a warm, sweet bite every time. In this guide, I’ll share all the ingredients and step-by-step instructions you need. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will make your kitchen smell amazing!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The warm combination of cinnamon and nutmeg creates a comforting flavor that is perfect for any occasion.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires simple ingredients, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Sharing: With about 24 donut holes, this recipe is great for parties, gatherings, or just a fun treat to enjoy with family and friends.
- Versatile Serving Options: These donut holes can be enjoyed on their own or paired with dipping sauces like chocolate or caramel for an extra indulgent experience.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make these tasty cinnamon sugar baked donut holes, gather the following:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (cooled slightly)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Ingredients for the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
To coat the warm donut holes in sweet goodness, use:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
Common Substitutes
If you're missing some ingredients, here are some easy swaps:
- All-purpose flour: Use whole wheat flour for a heartier flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Coconut sugar offers a nice hint of caramel.
- Milk: Almond milk or oat milk works well as a dairy-free option.
- Unsweetened applesauce: Replace with mashed banana for a fruity twist.
- Egg: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan option.
These ingredients come together to create a delightful treat. The warm, fluffy donut holes coated in cinnamon sugar will make your kitchen smell amazing!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating the Oven and Preparing the Muffin Tin
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will help your donut holes bake evenly. While the oven heats, grease a mini muffin tin. You can use cooking spray or brush it with melted butter. This step ensures the donut holes come out easily after baking.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, add 2 cups of all-purpose flour. Then, mix in 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Next, add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg. Whisk all these dry ingredients until they are well mixed and free of lumps.
Combining Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, crack 1 large egg and beat it lightly. Add in 1/2 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 2 tablespoons of cooled melted butter, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Stir these wet ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Merging Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Use a spatula to fold them together. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. This helps keep your donut holes soft and tender.
Filling the Muffin Tin
Take a spoon or a small cookie scoop. Fill each muffin cup about three-quarters full with the donut batter. This gives the donuts room to rise as they bake.
Baking Instructions
Place the filled muffin tin in the preheated oven. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. The donut holes are done when the tops are golden brown. You can check by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
Preparing the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the donut holes bake, prepare the cinnamon sugar. In a small bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon. Whisk them together until well combined.
Cooling and Coating the Donut Holes
Once the donut holes are done, take them out of the oven. Let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes. Then, pop them out gently. While they are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Make sure they are coated on all sides for the best flavor.
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Perfectly Tender Donut Holes
To make your donut holes soft, use fresh ingredients. Check your baking powder and baking soda for freshness. Too old can lead to dense treats. Mix the wet and dry ingredients gently. Overmixing makes them tough. You want a few lumps to stay for the best texture.
How to Avoid Overmixing
When you combine the wet and dry mixes, be careful. Use a spatula and fold gently. Stop mixing as soon as you don’t see dry flour. A few lumps are okay. This keeps your donut holes light and fluffy. Trust me, you’ll love the result.
Cooling Techniques for Optimal Coating
After baking, let your donut holes cool for about five minutes in the tin. This helps them firm up. Once they pop out, coat them in cinnamon sugar right away. The warmth helps the sugar stick well. Roll them around to coat all sides. This gives every bite a sweet, tasty crunch.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, use freshly grated nutmeg and ground cinnamon. Fresh spices have a more intense aroma and taste, enhancing the overall quality of your donut holes.
- Be Careful Not to Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donut holes instead of light and fluffy ones.
- Experiment with Flavor: Feel free to add other spices or flavor extracts, such as almond or maple, to customize your donut holes and give them a unique twist.
- Serve Warm: Donut holes are best enjoyed fresh from the oven while they are still warm. This enhances their soft texture and allows the cinnamon sugar coating to stick better.
Variations
Flavor Variations (Chocolate, Pumpkin, etc.)
You can easily switch up the flavors of these donut holes. For chocolate, add 1/3 cup of cocoa powder to the dry mix. This gives a rich, deep flavor. If you love pumpkin, mix in 1 cup of pure pumpkin puree. This adds moisture and a hint of spice. For a fun twist, try vanilla bean or almond extract instead of regular vanilla. Each variation adds a unique taste to your treats.
Gluten-Free Option
You can make these donut holes gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just make sure the blend contains xanthan gum, as it helps with texture. This keeps the donut holes soft and fluffy. Follow the same steps in the recipe. Your gluten-free friends will love these just as much!
Vegan Adaptations
To make these donut holes vegan, swap the egg for a flax egg. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens. Replace the milk with plant-based milk, like almond or oat milk. Use a vegan butter substitute for the melted butter. These changes make the donut holes dairy-free and egg-free, keeping the taste delicious!
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your cinnamon sugar baked donut holes fresh, store them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. If you plan to eat them within a few days, you can keep them at room temperature. They will stay soft and tasty for about 2 to 3 days. For longer storage, put them in the fridge. Just remember to let them cool completely before sealing them up.
How to Reheat Donut Holes
If you want to enjoy your donut holes warm, reheating is easy. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the donut holes on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5 to 7 minutes. This makes them soft again. You can also use a microwave. Heat them for about 10 to 15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, or they might get tough.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing is a great way to save your donut holes for later. Start with cooled donut holes; this helps keep their shape. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1 hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat them, just reheat as mentioned above. Enjoy the fresh taste anytime!
FAQs
How long do cinnamon sugar baked donut holes last?
Cinnamon sugar baked donut holes stay fresh for about three days. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the fridge. They might last up to a week in the fridge, but they can get a bit dry.
Can I use a regular muffin tin instead of a mini muffin tin?
Yes, you can use a regular muffin tin! Just fill the cups halfway. Keep in mind that regular muffin holes will take longer to bake. Check for doneness around 15-20 minutes. The donut holes need to be golden brown and a toothpick should come out clean.
What can I do if my donut holes are dry?
If your donut holes turn out dry, here are a few tips. First, make sure to measure your flour correctly. Too much flour can make them dry. Also, check your oven temperature with a thermometer. If it's too hot, they can bake too fast. You can add a bit more applesauce next time for moisture.
Can I add frosting to my donut holes?
Absolutely! Adding frosting can make your donut holes even more fun. Consider using chocolate or vanilla frosting. You can also drizzle it on top. Just wait until they cool before adding any frosting, so it doesn't melt off.
How do I know when the donut holes are fully baked?
You can tell donut holes are done when they look golden brown. Insert a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, they're ready. If it has batter on it, bake for a few more minutes. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary.
You now have all the tools to make delicious cinnamon sugar donut holes. We've covered ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips to ensure success. You learned about flavor variations and proper storage, so you can enjoy them longer.
In the end, baking is about experimenting and having fun. So, gather your ingredients and get started! Enjoy the sweet reward of your hard work.
