The scent of cinnamon and sugary goodness wafts through my kitchen as I pull out my air fryer, and I can’t help but smile. It’s the holiday season, and what better way to spread joy than with warm, fluffy Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes? These little bites of heaven are perfectly soft and coated in a delightful cinnamon-sugar mixture, just waiting to make your gatherings a little sweeter.
I discovered this gem during my quest to create a festive treat that wouldn’t require hours in the kitchen—because let’s be honest, who has that kind of time amid the holiday hustle and bustle? Using the air fryer not only cuts down on cooking time but also keeps these donut holes light and airy, making them a crowd-pleasing option for family and friends.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, looking for a family-friendly treat, or simply craving a sweet indulgence after a long day, these donut holes are bound to brighten your spirits. Let’s dive into this easy, delicious recipe that promises joy in every bite!
Why You'll Love This Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes
- These Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip them up in just 23 minutes from start to finish.
- The delightful combination of cinnamon and sugar creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Their versatility means they can be served at holiday gatherings, breakfast, or as a sweet snack at any time of day.
- Plus, the vibrant holiday sprinkles add a festive visual appeal that makes them irresistible to both kids and adults alike.
Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes Ingredients
For the Donut Holes
- All-purpose flour – the base for these soft, fluffy treats; be sure to measure it correctly for the best results.
- Granulated sugar – adds sweetness to the donut holes and balances the warm spices.
- Baking powder – gives the donut holes their light and airy texture; ensure it’s fresh for optimal puffiness.
- Ground cinnamon – infuses a warm, festive flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet coating.
- Salt – enhances all the flavors; a pinch goes a long way!
- Whole milk – contributes to the dough's moisture; you can substitute with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Melted unsalted butter – enriches the flavor and keeps the donut holes tender.
- Large egg – binds the ingredients together; if you need a vegan option, replace it with flaxseed meal mixed with water.
- Vanilla extract – adds warmth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
For Coating
- Melted unsalted butter – helps the sugar and cinnamon cling to the warm donut holes.
- Granulated sugar – creates a sweet, crunchy coating that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
- Ground cinnamon – I always recommend using a quality cinnamon for the best flavor; it’s the star of the show here!
- Holiday sprinkles – make these Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes festive and fun; let your creativity shine with colors!
Enjoy creating these delightful treats that are sure to enchant your holiday gatherings!
How to Make Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes
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Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. This will ensure even cooking and that your donut holes turn out perfectly golden and fluffy.
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Combine dry ingredients. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. This mixture will give your donut holes sweetness and flavor.
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Mix wet ingredients. In another bowl, whisk the milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. The moisture is crucial for a soft dough.
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Blend wet and dry. Gently combine the wet and dry mixtures, stirring until a soft dough forms. You should see a slightly sticky consistency that holds together.
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Form the donut holes. Lightly flour your hands and roll portions of the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them on a plate or baking sheet as you go.
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Arrange in the air fryer basket. Space the balls evenly apart to allow for proper air circulation, which is essential for even cooking.
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Cook for 7–8 minutes. Shake the basket once halfway through to ensure even cooking. Look for a golden brown color and a firm texture when done.
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Coat with melted butter. While the donut holes are warm, dip each one into melted unsalted butter, allowing the excess to drip off.
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Sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar. Roll the butter-coated donut holes in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon for the perfect sweet coating. Finish by adding festive holiday sprinkles on top!
Optional: Serve with a hot cup of cocoa for a delightful holiday pairing.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes?
The festive aroma of cinnamon fills your kitchen, inviting warmth and joy to your holiday gatherings.
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Hot Cocoa: Rich and creamy, this drink enhances the cozy donut experience, perfect for sipping alongside your sweet treats.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop adds a delightful creaminess and temperature contrast, delighting your taste buds with every bite.
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Fruit Salad: Bright, fresh fruits balance the sweetness of the donuts, adding a deliciously refreshing touch to your dessert spread.
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Coffee: A robust cup of coffee perfectly complements the warm spices of the donut holes, making them an indulgent morning treat.
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Whipped Cream: Add a dollop atop each donut hole for an extra layer of sweetness and luxuriousness that everyone will love.
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Christmas Cookies: A festive assortment of cookies can round out your dessert table, creating an inviting holiday atmosphere.
These pairings will ensure your celebrations are filled with joy, sweetness, and delight!
Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes Variations
Feel free to get creative with your donut holes! These suggestions will inspire a delightful twist on the classic recipe.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk for a vegan-friendly version that retains fluffiness.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to enjoy these treats without compromising taste; just ensure it contains xanthan gum.
- Chocolate Chip: Fold in chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet, gooey surprise in each bite; the contrast with cinnamon is heavenly!
- Citrus Zest: Add zest from an orange or lemon to the wet mixture for a fresh, zesty flavor that brightens up each bite.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate finely chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added crunch and a delightful nutty flavor.
- Spiced Pumpkin: Mix in pumpkin puree and substitute spices with pumpkin pie spice for a cozy twist reminiscent of fall.
- Coconut Flakes: Toss in some unsweetened shredded coconut before baking for a chewy texture and tropical flair.
- Maple Glaze: Instead of cinnamon-sugar, dip each donut hole in a mixture of powdered sugar and maple syrup for a sweeter finish.
Experimenting with these variations can turn a simple recipe into a delightful medley of flavors!
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes
Room Temperature: Store your Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their softness.
Fridge: If you need to keep them longer, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or microwave to revive their fluffy texture.
Freezer: Freeze the donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer for 5-7 minutes.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm again, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3-5 minutes, ensuring they come out deliciously warm and ready to delight!
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Simply roll the dough into balls and store them until you're ready to cook. When you’re set to serve, just pop the pre-formed balls into your air fryer for 7-8 minutes, adding a delightful sprinkle of cinnamon-sugar while they’re still warm. To maintain their fluffy texture and rich flavor, ensure they are well-covered to prevent drying out. This way, you can enjoy fresh, warm donut holes with minimal effort, making your holiday gatherings even sweeter!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes, ensure your flour is measured accurately to prevent dense treats.
- When mixing wet and dry ingredients, avoid overmixing; gentle folding will keep the dough light and airy.
- Lightly flour your hands before shaping the dough into balls to prevent sticking and make the process smoother.
- Always preheat the air fryer to 350°F for the best results, allowing for even cooking and golden-brown donut holes.
Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for the Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes?
Absolutely! I recommend using all-purpose flour, as it provides the ideal texture for these fluffy donut holes. Be sure to measure it correctly—scoop and level your flour for the best results! If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, but keep in mind the texture may vary slightly.
How long can I store the donut holes, and what's the best method?
For sure! Store your Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft and delightful. If you need to store them longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just remember to reheat them either in the air fryer or microwave for a few seconds to bring back that fluffy texture!
Can I freeze the Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes? If so, how?
Very much! Freezing is an excellent option. Start by placing your donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid, about 2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be stored for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes for the perfect warm treat!
What should I do if my donut holes come out dense?
Ah, that's a common concern! If your donut holes are dense, it could be because the flour was overmixed into the wet ingredients. I recommend gently folding them together to preserve airiness. Also, make sure your baking powder is fresh! Doing a little “bounce” test by adding a teaspoon to hot water will indicate if it's still effective.
Are these donut holes safe for pets?
Definitely! While all the ingredients are safe for adults, I advise against sharing these sweet treats with your furry friends. The sugar and cinnamon can be harmful in large quantities for pets, especially dogs. It's always best to keep their snacks and treats dog-friendly to avoid any health issues.
Can I adjust the sweetness or flavors in the recipe?
For sure! If you prefer a less sweet donut hole, you can cut down on the sugar in both the dough and the coating. Alternatively, experimenting with different spices like nutmeg or even pumpkin spice can add a unique twist to your Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes. Personalize them to fit your flavor preference—after all, the more the merrier in baking!
Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F.
- Combine dry ingredients: whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt.
- Mix wet ingredients: whisk milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Blend wet and dry: combine the mixtures until a soft, sticky dough forms.
- Form donut holes: roll 1-inch balls of dough and place on a plate.
- Arrange in air fryer basket, spaced evenly for proper air circulation.
- Cook for 7–8 minutes, shaking halfway through for even cooking.
- Coat with melted butter while warm.
- Sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar and add festive sprinkles on top.
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