Air Fryer Donut Holes: A Sweet Treat for Everyone

Who doesn’t love a warm, sugary donut hole? Making Air Fryer Donut Holes at home is a delightful way to enjoy this treat without the guilt of deep-frying. These little bites of happiness are incredibly quick and easy to whip up, making them perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a dessert.

Why Make This Recipe

Air Fryer Donut Holes are not just delicious; they also come with a host of benefits. First, they are significantly lower in calories and fat compared to traditional fried donuts. Using an air fryer allows you to achieve that golden-brown exterior and soft, fluffy inside with much less oil. Plus, this recipe is fun for family and friends to make together, allowing for some quality bonding time in the kitchen. And who can resist the mouthwatering combination of warm, cinnamon-sugar goodness?

How to Make Air Fryer Donut Holes

Creating your own Air Fryer Donut Holes is a straightforward process that requires just a few ingredients. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

1 can Refrigerated Biscuits (Grand Biscuits)
1/2 cup Sugar
1 Tbsp Cinnamon
4 Tbsp Butter, melted

Directions

Preheat your air fryer to 360 degrees F. If your air fryer does not have a preheat option, set it to 360 degrees F and let it run for about 5 minutes.
Cut out donut holes from the biscuits using a small cookie cutter. You can save the scraps to fry up afterward for some mini-crunchy bites!
Coat the air fryer basket with olive oil (avoid using non-stick cooking sprays as they may damage your air fryer).
Place the donut holes into the air fryer basket, ensuring they have enough space to cook evenly. Air fry them for 4 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time for an even cook.
While the donut holes are cooking, mix the sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl. Melt the butter in a separate bowl.
Once the cooking time is up, remove the donut holes from the air fryer. Dip each one in the melted butter, then roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture, making sure to coat all sides.
Serve immediately while they’re warm and enjoy this delightful treat!

Pro Tips for Success with Air Fryer Donut Holes

Be Mindful of Space: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
Check Doneness: Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model. Check the donut holes around the 3-minute mark to ensure they don’t overcook.
Use High-Quality Biscuits: The dough you use greatly influences the taste and texture. Choose refrigerated biscuits that are fresh for the best results.
Cool Briefly: Let the donut holes sit for a minute after cooking to avoid burning your fingers when you dip them in butter.
Experiment with Sugar Coating: Feel free to mix things up with other flavorings, such as powdered sugar or vanilla sugar, for a unique twist.

Flavor Variations for Air Fryer Donut Holes

Chocolate Glaze: For chocolate lovers, dip the warm donut holes in melted chocolate instead of butter, then roll them in sprinkles.
Maple Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with a bit of maple syrup and a splash of milk for a sweet and decadent maple glaze.
Orange Zest: Add some citrus zing to your cinnamon sugar by mixing in finely grated orange zest for a fresh flavor.
Nutty Goodness: Mix in chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, with the cinnamon sugar mixture for added crunch.
Spicy Twist: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or cayenne pepper into the sugar for a unique spicy-sweet experience.

Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Donut Holes

Air Fryer Donut Holes pair wonderfully with various accompaniments. Here are a few ideas:

Coffee or Tea: Enjoy with your favorite hot beverage for a cozy breakfast or afternoon snack.
Fruit Compote: Serve alongside a fresh berry compote for a playful and fruity contrast.
Ice Cream: For a fun dessert, serve them with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream drizzled with chocolate sauce.
Yogurt Dip: A creamy yogurt dip flavored with vanilla or honey can add a delightful tangy contrast to the sweetness.
Milk: Don’t forget the classic pairing of a cold glass of milk!

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Air Fryer Donut Holes

If you have leftover donut holes (though we doubt that will be the case!), they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Place the cooled donut holes in a freezer-safe container or bag and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories: 220
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 0g
Sodium: 320mg

FAQ About Air Fryer Donut Holes

Can I use a different type of dough for this recipe?

Absolutely! While the classic refrigerated biscuits are recommended for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of dough, such as croissant dough or even homemade dough if you’re up for it. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as different types of dough may require adjustments.

How can I make these donut holes healthier?

If you want to lower the sugar content, consider reducing the amount of sugar in the coating or using a sugar substitute. You can also skip the butter dip altogether and simply roll the donut holes in cinnamon-sugar for a lighter treat.

Can I make these vegan?

Yes, you can make these donut holes vegan by using plant-based butter and checking the biscuit dough to ensure it’s dairy-free. Many brands offer vegan refrigerated dough options that work well.

What should I do if my air fryer doesn’t have a preheat option?

If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat function, simply set it to the desired temperature and allow it to run empty for about 5 minutes. This should help your donut holes cook evenly.

Can I skip the cinnamon sugar coating?

Of course! If you prefer, you can enjoy the donut holes plain or try a different topping like powdered sugar or a chocolate glaze instead. The base flavor of the donut holes is still delightful on its own!

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Donut Holes are an incredible way to satisfy your sweet tooth without the mess or excessive fat of traditional frying. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a batch that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, these treats will bring smiles all around. So gather your family and friends, and get ready to enjoy some homemade donut holes today!