“Sweet, fluffy clouds of happiness await you with these homemade donut holes.”
Are you in search of the perfect comfort dessert? Look no further! Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes are not just tasty but bring back the warmth of childhood memories. The delightful aroma wafting through the kitchen when you make these will have everyone flocking to your door. Trust me; this recipe is about to become your new favorite.

Table of Contents
Why are Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes the Ultimate Comfort Dessert?
The ultimate comfort dessert shines through with warmth, nostalgia, and sweetness, and that’s exactly what Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes bring to the table.
These donut holes are everything you desire from a treat: easy, delicious, and quick to make! Perfect for family gatherings, weekend brunches, or simply treating yourself on a cozy evening. Unlike store-bought options, they are fresh and can be customized to your preferences. Cinnamon, a beloved warm spice, is often linked to comfort and happiness, making this dessert not only tasty but also mood-boosting. If you’re keen on discovering more about the wonderful effects of cinnamon, check out this insightful Healthline article.
You can even pair these donut holes with a cup of freshly brewed coffee for the ultimate indulgence. Grab a hand-held treat and savor a bite of warmth as you dip into your coffee or hot cocoa. Enjoy two cozy worlds colliding! Explore our coffee recipes for perfect pairing!
What Ingredients Do You Need to Make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes?
Making these cinnamon sugar donut holes is simple, but the ingredients are key! Let’s take a look.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Baking powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Baking soda | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Buttermilk | 1/2 cup |
| Large egg | 1 |
| Unsalted butter, melted | 2 tablespoons |
| Granulated sugar (for tossing) | 1/4 cup |
| Ground cinnamon (for tossing) | 1 teaspoon |

Now, let’s highlight a couple of these ingredients that are especially important. First, buttermilk adds a delightful tang and tender crumb to our donut holes, making them soft on the inside. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, simply mix a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with regular milk and let it sit for a few minutes. Additionally, using fresh ground cinnamon instead of pre-ground offers a more intense flavor profile, making every bite a flavorful experience.
How Do You Make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes Step-by-Step?
Making your own cinnamon sugar donut holes at home is easier than you might think. Follow these steps to create your delicious treats!
Step 1
First, preheat the oil in a deep fryer or a cast-iron pot to 350°F (175°C). Keeping the temperature consistent ensures your donut holes are perfectly golden brown.
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
Step 3
In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, egg, and melted butter. Carefully combine the wet and dry ingredients by folding them together until no flour is visible – be careful not to overmix!
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep time | 10 minutes |
| Cook time | 20 minutes |
| Total time | 30 minutes |
Once your batter is ready, drop spoonful of it gently into the hot oil. Fry until they turn golden brown, which should take about 2-3 minutes per batch. Remove them using a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels. While they’re still warm, toss them in a cinnamon-sugar mixture, and your cinnamon sugar donut holes are ready to satisfy cravings! Try this blueberry coffee cake for another delightful dessert!

What Are Some Fun Variations and Serving Ideas for Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes?
These cinnamon sugar donut holes are versatile and can be customized in countless ways! Let’s explore some variations and serving ideas.
Diet-Friendly Options
If you’re looking for a healthier approach, you can substitute all-purpose flour with almond or oat flour for gluten-free options. Use a sugar replacement like coconut sugar or erythritol if you want to reduce sugar intake without sacrificing sweetness. Swapping buttermilk for unsweetened applesauce can reduce fat content while still keeping them moist.
Flavor Variations
Add in some freshly grated nutmeg for additional warmth, or explore the world of flavor infusions! A drop of vanilla extract or a splash of almond extract can elevate the taste. For a little kick, consider adding a bit of cayenne pepper or nutmeg to the cinnamon-sugar mixture!
Serving Ideas
Pair the warm donut holes with a side of whipped cream or chocolate sauce for dipping. You can also serve them drizzled with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk, making them even more tempting! When you present these at a gathering, they’ll be the star of the show – just watch your friends’ faces light up as they take the first bite!
| Suggested Pairings | Tips |
|---|---|
| Fresh fruit | Provides a refreshing contrast! |
| Vanilla ice cream | Perfect for a decadent dessert. |
| Coffee or hot cocoa | A comforting drink pairing! |
Don’t forget to explore this cappuccino recipe for a coffee pairing that will impress!

Final Thoughts on Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
Making Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings joy and comfort. The rich aroma fills the house, reminding me of the simple pleasures of life. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, though I highly doubt they’ll last that long!
So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the delightful process of creating these little pockets of joy. Don’t forget to share your creations on Pinterest; I’m sure your friends will want to join in on the fun! Let’s spread the joy of cinnamon sugar donut holes everywhere! Check out my profile for more delicious ideas: Pin it here!
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat flour for the donut holes?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour can be used as a healthier alternative to all-purpose flour. However, keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly, making them denser. For the fluffiest result, you might want to do a 50/50 mix with all-purpose flour.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you find yourself without buttermilk, you can easily create a substitute. Just mix 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with enough milk to make 1/2 cup and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. This will give you the acidity needed for the recipe.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! If you prefer to bake your donut holes, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), grease a mini muffin pan, and fill each cup with the batter. Bake for around 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. While they won’t have the same texture as fried, they will still taste delightful!
How do I store leftover donut holes?
Store leftover donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you might consider freezing them. Let them cool completely, then place in a freezer bag, where they can last up to a month! Just warm them in the oven when ready to enjoy.
Can I add fillings to the donut holes?
Of course! You can incorporate fillings such as chocolate chips, fruit preserves, or even cream cheese. Just fill the dough with your chosen filling before frying, and be careful to seal the edges well to prevent leaks during the cooking process.
Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
Discover the joy of making fluffy Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes! These delightful treats are easy to prepare and coated in a mouthwatering cinnamon-sugar mix, making them the perfect comfort dessert for any occasion.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup All-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon Baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup Buttermilk
- 1 Large egg
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup Granulated sugar (for tossing)
- 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon (for tossing)
Instructions
- Preheat the oil in a deep fryer or a cast-iron pot to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the buttermilk, egg, and melted butter. Fold the wet and dry ingredients together until no flour is visible.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter gently into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. While warm, toss in a cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Notes
Store leftover donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
