Love donut holes but want a healthier twist? You’re in for a treat with my Air Fryer Maple Cinnamon Donut Holes! These bite-sized wonders are easy to make and packed with flavor. In this post, I’ll share all the essential ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips to ensure your donut holes come out perfect every time. Let’s dive in and create a delicious batch that your taste buds will love!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Air Fryer Maple Cinnamon Donut Holes
To make Air Fryer Maple Cinnamon Donut Holes, you will need the following:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1 large egg
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for coating)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
These ingredients come together to create a soft, sweet treat. Each one plays a key role in flavor and texture.
Optional Ingredients for Customization
You can add some fun twists to your donut holes. Here are a few ideas:
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg for a warm spice flavor
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for extra sweetness
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts for crunchy texture
– Sprinkles to make them festive
Feel free to mix and match based on your taste!
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need to make swaps, here are some easy options:
– Use whole wheat flour for a healthier base.
– Try almond milk or oat milk for dairy-free options.
– Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a different sweetness.
– Use applesauce instead of butter for a lower-fat choice.
These substitutions can help you tailor the recipe to your needs while keeping it delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
First, grab a large mixing bowl. Add 1 cup of all-purpose flour. Next, sprinkle in 1/4 cup of granulated sugar. Then, toss in 1 tablespoon of baking powder. Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Whisk all these dry ingredients together until they mix well. This step is key for a good donut hole.
Preparing the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, pour in 1/2 cup of whole milk. Add 1/4 cup of maple syrup, then crack in 1 large egg. Lastly, pour in 3 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter. Mix these wet ingredients until smooth. Doing this well helps the flavors blend.
Combining and Shaping the Dough
Now, take the wet mixture and slowly add it to the dry mix. Stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing; this keeps your donut holes light. Next, shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in size. You can use a cookie scoop or your hands for this part.
Air Frying the Donut Holes
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the donut holes in the basket in a single layer. Make sure they don’t touch. You may need to cook in batches. Air fry the donut holes for 8-10 minutes until they are golden brown.
Coating the Donut Holes
While the donut holes cook, mix 1/2 cup of powdered sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Once the donut holes are ready, take them out and let them cool for a minute. Toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mix until well coated. This adds a sweet finish to your treat.
Tips & Tricks
Preventing Overmixing for Perfect Texture
To make soft donut holes, mix just enough. When you combine wet and dry ingredients, stir gently. Stop when you see no dry flour. Overmixing makes the dough tough, so be light-handed. This keeps your donut holes fluffy and tender.
Achieving Ideal Air Fryer Temperature
Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Preheat it for best results. This temperature cooks the donut holes evenly. If it’s too hot, they might burn outside and stay raw inside. A proper preheat ensures golden, tasty treats every time.
Ensuring Even Cooking
Place the donut holes in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding in the basket. If they touch, they won’t cook well. Cook in batches if needed. This way, each donut hole gets enough hot air. Enjoy perfectly cooked bites that are soft and warm inside.

Variations
Adding Flavor Variations (Nutmeg, Vanilla)
You can easily jazz up your donut holes. Try adding nutmeg for a warm spice. Just use 1/4 teaspoon to your dry mix. If you love vanilla, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the wet mix. This gives your donuts a sweet aroma and extra flavor.
Healthier Alternatives (Whole Wheat Flour, Sugar Substitutes)
Want a healthier donut? Swap out all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour. This change adds fiber and nutrients. You can also cut sugar by using substitutes like honey or agave syrup. These options give sweetness without the extra calories.
Seasonal Variations (Pumpkin Spice, Chocolate Glaze)
For a fall treat, use pumpkin spice in place of cinnamon. Just add 1 teaspoon to your dry mix. If you prefer chocolate, drizzle melted chocolate on top after frying. This adds a rich flavor that pairs well with maple. Enjoy these fun twists on a classic recipe!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Donut Holes
Store your leftover donut holes in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh. Place a paper towel at the bottom. It absorbs any extra moisture. You can keep them at room temperature for one day. For longer storage, move them to the fridge. They will stay good for about three days.
Reheating Tips for Freshness
To enjoy warm donut holes again, use your air fryer. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the donut holes in the basket for about 3 minutes. They will taste fresh and soft. You can also use a microwave. Heat them on low for about 10-15 seconds. This method works but may not keep their crispiness.
Freezing Instructions for Long-Term Storage
If you want to save donut holes for later, freeze them. First, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. Remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat. Enjoy those tasty treats anytime!
FAQs
Can I use dairy-free alternatives in this recipe?
Yes, you can. Use almond milk or coconut milk instead of whole milk. These options work well in this recipe, keeping the donut holes moist and tasty. Choose a dairy-free butter too, like coconut oil or a plant-based spread.
What can I do if my donut holes turn out too dense?
If your donut holes are too dense, avoid overmixing the dough. It’s key to mix just until combined. Adding a bit more baking powder can also help. If they still seem heavy, try adding a splash more milk next time.
How can I make these donut holes gluten-free?
To make gluten-free donut holes, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Many blends work well, but ensure they contain xanthan gum for the right texture. Measure carefully for the best results.
Can I use a regular oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes, you can use a regular oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the donut holes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Adjust cooking time as needed.
This blog post covered all you need for making Air Fryer Maple Cinnamon Donut Holes. We explored ingredients, including fun substitutes. You learned the steps for mixing, frying, and coating. Tips helped you avoid common mistakes for the best results. Variations offered ways to make the recipe your own. Lastly, proper storage methods keep your treats fresh. With this knowledge, you can create delicious donut holes that everyone will love. Enjoy baking and sharing these sweet delights!
