Air Fryer Donut Holes Delightful and Easy Snack

Name: Air Fryer Donut Holes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1.3 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 0.25 teaspoon baking soda; 0.25 teaspoon salt; 0.25 cup buttermilk; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 0.25 cup powdered sugar; 0.25 cup sugar (for cinnamon sugar); 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for cinnamon sugar)

November 15, 2025July 20, 2025 by Emma

Looking for a sweet and simple treat that’s easy to make? Air fryer donut holes are the answer! These delightful snacks are not only light and fluffy but also healthier than their fried counterparts. In just a few minutes, you can whip up a batch that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the fun of creating these tasty bites that will make your taste buds dance!

Jump to Recipe

Why I Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe is super simple and takes only 10 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for a last-minute treat.
Air Fryer Perfection: Cooking these donut holes in the air fryer gives them a light and fluffy texture without the added oil of traditional frying.
Customizable Coatings: You can easily switch up the toppings from powdered sugar to cinnamon sugar, catering to different taste preferences.
Family-Friendly Fun: Making these donut holes is a fun activity for the whole family, and everyone loves the delicious results!

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 1/3 cup granulated sugar

– 1 teaspoon baking powder

– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1/4 cup buttermilk (or lemon juice with milk)

– 1 large egg

– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for coating)

– Optional: cinnamon sugar mixture (1/4 cup sugar + 1 teaspoon cinnamon)

Gather these ingredients before you start. You can find most of them in your kitchen. The all-purpose flour gives the donut holes their nice texture. Sugar adds sweetness, and baking powder helps them rise. The buttermilk, or milk with lemon juice, keeps them moist. The egg binds everything together, while melted butter adds flavor. Don’t forget the vanilla extract for that delicious aroma! The powdered sugar and optional cinnamon sugar will make them even more irresistible.

These donut holes are simple to make, and the ingredients are easy to find. You can even switch up the flavors if you like. Just remember, using fresh ingredients will give you the best taste. Enjoy making these delightful snacks!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 1/3 cup granulated sugar

– 1 teaspoon baking powder

– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

2. In a separate bowl, mix:

– 1/4 cup buttermilk (or lemon juice with milk)

– 1 large egg

– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

3. Gradually add the wet mix to the dry mix. Stir gently until just combined. A few lumps are okay.

Air Frying Process

1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

2. Form small balls of dough, about 1 inch wide, using a cookie scoop or your hands.

3. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the donut holes in a single layer without touching.

Coating and Serving

1. Air fry for 5-6 minutes until golden brown.

2. While warm, toss the donut holes in powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar for coating.

3. Allow them to cool slightly before enjoying. They taste best warm!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Donut Holes

To make the best donut holes, avoid overmixing the batter. When you mix the wet and dry ingredients, stop as soon as they come together. A few lumps are okay. This keeps the donut holes soft and fluffy. The ideal temperature for air frying is 350°F (175°C). Preheat your air fryer for about 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Cooking Tips

To know when your donut holes are done, look for a golden-brown color. They should feel firm to the touch. If you have a toothpick, you can poke one; it should come out clean. Use a light cooking spray, like olive oil or coconut oil, to coat the air fryer basket. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Serving Suggestions

Donut holes pair well with coffee or milk. You can even serve them with a side of fruit or yogurt. For storage, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. Just make sure they are fully cooled before freezing.

Pro Tips

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh baking powder and buttermilk will give your donut holes a better rise and flavor.
Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to tough donut holes. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
Experiment with Flavors: Add spices like nutmeg or flavored extracts to the batter for a unique twist on your donut holes.

Variations

Flavor Variations

You can easily change up the flavor of your donut holes. One fun idea is to make chocolate donut holes. Just add some cocoa powder to the dry mix. This will give you a rich chocolate taste that is hard to resist. Another option is to add fruit flavors. You can fold in fresh raspberries or blueberries for a fruity twist. This makes your donut holes bright and tasty!

Glazing Options

Adding a glaze can boost the sweetness of your donut holes. A simple glaze is easy to make. Just mix powdered sugar with a little milk until smooth. Drizzle it over your warm donut holes for a sweet finish. You can also try different coatings. Crushed nuts or coconut flakes can add crunch and flavor. These options make your treats even more fun to eat!

Healthier Alternatives

If you want a healthier version, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This will give your donut holes more fiber and nutrients. You can also use a sugar substitute for the coating. This way, you can enjoy your snack without the extra sugar. These swaps keep the taste yummy while making them a bit healthier.

Storage Info

Short-Term Storage

To keep your donut holes fresh for 2-3 days, place them in an airtight container. This method locks in moisture and flavor. Store them at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. If your kitchen is warm, consider putting them in the fridge. However, this may make them less soft.

Long-Term Storage

You can freeze donut holes for later use. Allow them to cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, take the donut holes out and let them thaw.

To reheat frozen donut holes, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Cook for about 3-5 minutes. This will make them warm and delicious again.

Signs of Spoilage

You can tell if donut holes are no longer fresh by checking for a dry texture or an off smell. If they feel hard or crumbly, it’s best to toss them. When stored properly, donut holes can stay fresh for 2-3 days at room temperature and up to three months in the freezer.

FAQs

Common Questions

How do I prevent donut holes from sticking to the air fryer basket?

To stop donut holes from sticking, spray the basket lightly with cooking spray. You can also use parchment paper for easy removal.

Can I make donut holes without buttermilk?

Yes! You can mix regular milk with a squeeze of lemon juice. This will mimic buttermilk’s tangy flavor.

What is the best air fryer for making donut holes?

Any air fryer works well, but one with a basket design is best. Look for one that allows even heat distribution.

Recipe-Specific Queries

Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?

Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and keep the air frying time the same. Cook in batches if needed.

How can I adjust the recipe for gluten-free options?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it has xanthan gum for structure.

General Air Fryer Queries

What temperature should I set my air fryer for different recipes?

Most recipes cook well at 350°F (175°C). Check the recipe for specific temperatures.

Are air fryers healthier than traditional frying?

Yes! Air fryers use less oil, which means fewer calories and less fat in your food.

In this post, we explored a simple recipe for delicious air-fried donut holes. We covered ingredients, preparation steps, cooking tips, and even fun variations. With easy instructions and helpful tips, you can make these treats at home. Enjoy them warm, coated in sugar, or customize them to suit your taste. Remember, fresh donut holes can make any day feel special. Try the recipe, and share your fun result

$- 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/3 cup granulated sugar - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1/4 teaspoon baking soda - 1/4 teaspoon salt - 1/4 cup buttermilk (or lemon juice with milk) - 1 large egg - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for coating) - Optional: cinnamon sugar mixture (1/4 cup sugar + 1 teaspoon cinnamon) Gather these ingredients before you start. You can find most of them in your kitchen. The all-purpose flour gives the donut holes their nice texture. Sugar adds sweetness, and baking powder helps them rise. The buttermilk, or milk with lemon juice, keeps them moist. The egg binds everything together, while melted butter adds flavor. Don't forget the vanilla extract for that delicious aroma! The powdered sugar and optional cinnamon sugar will make them even more irresistible. These donut holes are simple to make, and the ingredients are easy to find. You can even switch up the flavors if you like. Just remember, using fresh ingredients will give you the best taste. Enjoy making these delightful snacks! {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/3 cup granulated sugar - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1/4 teaspoon baking soda - 1/4 teaspoon salt 2. In a separate bowl, mix: - 1/4 cup buttermilk (or lemon juice with milk) - 1 large egg - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 3. Gradually add the wet mix to the dry mix. Stir gently until just combined. A few lumps are okay. 1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. 2. Form small balls of dough, about 1 inch wide, using a cookie scoop or your hands. 3. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the donut holes in a single layer without touching. 1. Air fry for 5-6 minutes until golden brown. 2. While warm, toss the donut holes in powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar for coating. 3. Allow them to cool slightly before enjoying. They taste best warm! To make the best donut holes, avoid overmixing the batter. When you mix the wet and dry ingredients, stop as soon as they come together. A few lumps are okay. This keeps the donut holes soft and fluffy. The ideal temperature for air frying is 350°F (175°C). Preheat your air fryer for about 5 minutes to ensure even cooking. To know when your donut holes are done, look for a golden-brown color. They should feel firm to the touch. If you have a toothpick, you can poke one; it should come out clean. Use a light cooking spray, like olive oil or coconut oil, to coat the air fryer basket. This helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier. Donut holes pair well with coffee or milk. You can even serve them with a side of fruit or yogurt. For storage, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. Just make sure they are fully cooled before freezing. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh baking powder and buttermilk will give your donut holes a better rise and flavor. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to tough donut holes. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture. Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking. Experiment with Flavors: Add spices like nutmeg or flavored extracts to the batter for a unique twist on your donut holes. {{image_2}} You can easily change up the flavor of your donut holes. One fun idea is to make chocolate donut holes. Just add some cocoa powder to the dry mix. This will give you a rich chocolate taste that is hard to resist. Another option is to add fruit flavors. You can fold in fresh raspberries or blueberries for a fruity twist. This makes your donut holes bright and tasty! Adding a glaze can boost the sweetness of your donut holes. A simple glaze is easy to make. Just mix powdered sugar with a little milk until smooth. Drizzle it over your warm donut holes for a sweet finish. You can also try different coatings. Crushed nuts or coconut flakes can add crunch and flavor. These options make your treats even more fun to eat! If you want a healthier version, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This will give your donut holes more fiber and nutrients. You can also use a sugar substitute for the coating. This way, you can enjoy your snack without the extra sugar. These swaps keep the taste yummy while making them a bit healthier. To keep your donut holes fresh for 2-3 days, place them in an airtight container. This method locks in moisture and flavor. Store them at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. If your kitchen is warm, consider putting them in the fridge. However, this may make them less soft. You can freeze donut holes for later use. Allow them to cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them, take the donut holes out and let them thaw. To reheat frozen donut holes, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Cook for about 3-5 minutes. This will make them warm and delicious again. You can tell if donut holes are no longer fresh by checking for a dry texture or an off smell. If they feel hard or crumbly, it’s best to toss them. When stored properly, donut holes can stay fresh for 2-3 days at room temperature and up to three months in the freezer. How do I prevent donut holes from sticking to the air fryer basket? To stop donut holes from sticking, spray the basket lightly with cooking spray. You can also use parchment paper for easy removal. Can I make donut holes without buttermilk? Yes! You can mix regular milk with a squeeze of lemon juice. This will mimic buttermilk's tangy flavor. What is the best air fryer for making donut holes? Any air fryer works well, but one with a basket design is best. Look for one that allows even heat distribution. Can I double the recipe for a larger batch? Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and keep the air frying time the same. Cook in batches if needed. How can I adjust the recipe for gluten-free options? Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure it has xanthan gum for structure. What temperature should I set my air fryer for different recipes? Most recipes cook well at 350°F (175°C). Check the recipe for specific temperatures. Are air fryers healthier than traditional frying? Yes! Air fryers use less oil, which means fewer calories and less fat in your food. In this post, we explored a simple recipe for delicious air-fried donut holes. We covered ingredients, preparation steps, cooking tips, and even fun variations. With easy instructions and helpful tips, you can make these treats at home. Enjoy them warm, coated in sugar, or customize them to suit your taste. Remember, fresh donut holes can make any day feel special. Try the recipe, and share your fun results!$