Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes: Bite-Sized Bliss Without the Fryer

Few treats evoke childhood nostalgia quite like cinnamon sugar donut holes—those irresistible, pillowy morsels rolled in warm spice that turn any ordinary morning into something special. But traditional donut holes often come with the hassle of deep-frying: splattered oil, lingering smells, and the inevitable guilt of indulgence. Enter Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes, the baked alternative that delivers all the cozy flavor and sugar-dusted charm of the original, with none of the fuss. These bite-sized wonders offer the perfect balance of simplicity and decadence, proving you don’t need a fryer to capture the magic of a donut shop at home.

The Evolution of Donut Holes: From Scraps to Star

Donut holes weren’t always the beloved treat they are today. Historically, they were simply the byproduct of ring-shaped donut production—the centers punched out and often discarded or repurposed. But somewhere along the way, bakers realized these little nuggets had their own appeal: more surface area for coating, quicker frying time, and an adorable, pop-able shape. They became a staple of bakeries and breakfast tables, especially when rolled in cinnamon sugar—a combination that plays on the comforting warmth of cinnamon toast and the indulgence of fresh donuts.

This recipe reimagines the classic with a modern, hassle-free twist. By using a simple baked batter (no yeast, no proofing, no frying), we preserve everything we love about donut holes—their light texture, cozy spicing, and addictive sugar coating—while making them accessible for everyday baking. Whether you’re whipping them up for a weekend brunch, packing them in lunchboxes, or serving them as a last-minute dessert, these donut holes bridge the gap between nostalgia and convenience.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

1. No-Fry, No-Fuss Perfection

Unlike traditional donut holes, which require monitoring oil temperatures and dealing with post-fry cleanup, this version:
✔ Bakes in under 10 minutes
✔ Uses one bowl (minimal cleanup)
✔ Keeps the kitchen grease-free

2. Texture That Delivers

The combination of baking powder and a touch of nutmeg creates a tender, cake-like crumb that’s:

• Pillowy-soft inside
• Slightly crisp on the edges (where the sugar coating caramelizes)
• Lighter than fried donuts (without sacrificing richness)

3. Endless Customization

While cinnamon sugar is classic, the recipe is a blank canvas for creativity:

• Spice variations: Add cardamom, ginger, or pumpkin spice to the sugar mix
• Dipping options: Coat in chocolate glaze or drizzle with caramel
• Adult twist: Brush with melted butter and roll in espresso sugar

The Science Behind the Perfect Donut Hole

1. Baking Powder vs. Yeast

This recipe opts for baking powder (not yeast) because:

• It provides instant lift without proofing time.
• The double-acting reaction (once when mixed, again when heated) ensures puffiness.
• It yields a cake-like texture that mimics old-fashioned donuts.

2. The Nutmeg Secret

A mere ½ teaspoon of nutmeg might seem insignificant, but it:

• Adds warmth and depth that reads as “donut shop” flavor.
• Balances the sweetness of the cinnamon sugar coating.

3. The Coating Technique

The melted butter dip before rolling serves two purposes:

• Helps the sugar adhere evenly.
• Adds richness that mimics the fried original.

Who Are These Donut Holes For?

✔ Parents needing quick, kid-approved treats
✔ Breakfast hosts wanting impressive-but-easy fare
✔ Meal preppers (they freeze beautifully!)
✔ Anyone craving donuts without the guilt

Serving & Storage Tips

☕ Pair with: Cold milk for kids, spiced coffee for adults.
🎁 Gift them: Pack in cellophane bags with ribbon.
🧊 Freeze: Uncoated donut holes keep 2 months; refresh in oven before coating.

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Final Thoughts

These Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes are more than a recipe—they’re a celebration of smart baking. They honor the joy of classic donut holes while eliminating the barriers that keep us from making them at home. With their warm spice aroma, buttery sugar coating, and cloud-like texture, they’re guaranteed to spark smiles—whether served at a birthday breakfast, packed for a school snack, or enjoyed as a midnight treat.

So preheat that oven and grab your mixing bowl. In less than 30 minutes, you’ll be biting into pure cinnamon-sugar bliss—no deep fryer required.

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P.S. For extra fun, serve with chocolate dipping sauce or apple cider glaze! 🍫🍎 ownthatcrown.com

 

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
Pillowy-soft, bite-sized treats rolled in warm cinnamon sugar – all the fun of donuts without the frying!

Yield: 24 donut holes
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins

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Ingredients

Donuts:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup butter, melted
• 1 egg
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Coating:

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp cinnamon
• ¼ cup butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Make Batter:

• Whisk flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and sugar.
• In another bowl, mix melted butter, egg, milk, and vanilla.
• Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed (don’t overwork).

2. Bake:

• Scoop tablespoon-sized balls onto greased baking sheet.
• Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 mins until puffed and springy.

3. Coat:

• While warm, roll in melted butter, then cinnamon sugar.

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Why You’ll Love These

✔ No yeast, no frying – Quick pantry ingredients
✔ Kid-friendly – Perfect for little hands
✔ Customizable – Add orange zest or cardamom to sugar

Serve warm with coffee or hot chocolate! ☕

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“All the cinnamon-sugar crunch, none of the grease!” 🍩✨