Donut Holes Recipe

If you’re looking for a treat that delivers maximum delight in just a few bites, these Donut Holes are about to become your favorite go-to sweet. Perfectly golden on the outside, tender and pillowy on the inside, each bite bursts with cozy flavor, whether you love them simply sugared or lavishly glazed. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, treating your kids after school, or simply craving something homemade, Donut Holes are more than just a snack—they’re a joyful, nostalgic experience that brings everyone together around the kitchen counter, smiling from the very first taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy ingredients for this recipe—just a handful of kitchen staples that, together, create the classic tender crumb and irresistible flavor we all love in Donut Holes. Each ingredient works behind the scenes to achieve that coveted balance of fluffiness, richness, and golden color.

• All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of the dough, giving each Donut Hole structure and softness.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the base and helps form a lovely brown crust during frying.
• Baking powder: Lifts the dough and ensures your Donut Holes turn out light and airy, never dense.
• Salt: Enhances every other flavor, making sure each bite sings with just the right balance.
• Ground cinnamon (optional): Adds a gentle warmth and inviting aroma, especially delicious in the coating.
• Whole milk (or any milk): Moistens and binds the dough, providing richness and softness.
• Large egg: Contributes to both structure and tenderness for that perfect bite.
• Melted butter (or neutral oil): Infuses richness and a melt-in-the-mouth crumb; butter gives classic flavor, oil keeps things light.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, bakery-like aroma and subtle depth to the dough.
• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola): Ensures a crisp exterior while keeping the inside moist and tender.

How to Make Donut Holes

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together your flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if you’re using it). Blending these dry ingredients evenly is key to a uniform, fluffy dough later—no one wants a surprise pocket of baking powder or salt!

Step 2: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and slightly frothy. This step guarantees a silky mixture that blends beautifully into the dry ingredients, making for tender and cohesive Donut Holes.

Step 3: Combine the Dough

Pour your wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients and gently stir everything together. Use a spatula or wooden spoon, mixing just until combined; the dough will be soft and a bit sticky. Avoid over-mixing—this is the secret to pillowy Donut Holes rather than tough ones.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

Fill a deep, heavy-bottomed pot with 2–3 inches of oil and heat over medium to medium-high. You’re looking for a steady 350°F (175°C)—a kitchen thermometer is super handy here! The right oil temperature ensures that Donut Holes cook through quickly without absorbing excess oil or burning on the outside.

Step 5: Form and Fry the Donut Holes

Using a small spoon or a cookie scoop, carefully portion out the dough and gently drop each ball into the hot oil. It’s smart to work in batches, giving each Donut Hole enough room to float and crisp evenly. Fry for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally, until all sides are gloriously golden brown.

Step 6: Drain and Cool

Once beautifully golden, use a slotted spoon to lift Donut Holes from the oil and let them rest on a plate lined with paper towels. This short rest allows them to crisp up a touch while excess oil drains away, paving the way for your favorite coatings.

Step 7: Coat and Finish

While they’re still warm, toss your Donut Holes in cinnamon sugar, roll them in powdered sugar, or dunk them in a decadent vanilla glaze. The glaze is as easy as mixing 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons milk and half a teaspoon of vanilla—a perfectly sweet crown for your golden bites.

How to Serve Donut Holes

Garnishes

Nothing elevates Donut Holes quite like a playful garnish. Go classic with a tumble in cinnamon-sugar or powdered sugar for instant comfort-food vibes. For a touch of bakery bliss, drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze or even a bit of melted chocolate. You can sprinkle on colored sugars, crushed nuts, or even a pinch of flaky sea salt for a gourmet upgrade.

Side Dishes

Pairing Donut Holes is all about balance. Serve them alongside fresh fruit for a burst of brightness, or offer with yogurt and berries to bring a little tang against their sweet, rich flavor. For a cozy breakfast or brunch, a cup of strong coffee, chai, or hot cocoa makes the experience feel extra special, letting those warm spices and vanilla shine.

Creative Ways to Present

Get creative and have fun! Thread your Donut Holes onto skewers for a mini “kabob” effect, pile them high on a decorative cake stand for a centerpiece treat, or serve them in parchment cones for picnic- or party-ready snacking. If you’re entertaining, set up a “Donut Holes Bar” with assorted toppings and let guests dip, roll, and drizzle their way to their own perfect bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare!), keep Donut Holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If they’ve been coated in glaze, leave the lid slightly ajar to keep them from getting soggy. They’re best enjoyed fresh, but hold up nicely for a spur-of-the-moment snack.

Freezing

For longer storage, stash your Donut Holes in a freezer-safe bag or tightly sealed container. Freeze them plain—without sugar or glaze—for up to two months. When a craving strikes, just thaw at room temperature, then recoat with your favorite topping for that straight-from-the-fryer freshness.

Reheating

To bring that just-cooked magic back to your Donut Holes, reheat them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 4–6 minutes. This restores that perfect exterior crisp without drying out the inside. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the texture chewy rather than fluffy.

FAQs

Can I make Donut Holes without a deep fryer?

Absolutely! All you need is a heavy-bottomed pot and a reliable thermometer for the oil. Frying in a regular saucepan works wonderfully—just be sure to keep an eye on the temperature for even cooking.

What kind of oil should I use for frying Donut Holes?

Neutral oils with high smoke points, like vegetable or canola oil, are best. They let the flavor of your Donut Holes shine without adding any off-notes or burning before your treats are done.

How do I keep Donut Holes from getting greasy?

The key is making sure your oil is at the right temperature (350°F). If it’s too cool, the Donut Holes will absorb oil; if too hot, they may brown too fast. Draining them on paper towels after frying also helps keep them perfectly crisp and light.

Can I bake Donut Holes instead of frying?

While traditional Donut Holes are fried for that signature crispness, you can bake them in a mini muffin pan at 350°F for about 12–15 minutes. The texture is slightly different, but the results are still delicious, especially when coated in cinnamon sugar or glaze.

Can I add mix-ins to the dough?

Definitely! Stirring in mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruit is a fun way to put your own spin on Donut Holes. Just fold them in gently so the dough stays fluffy and light.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about making Donut Holes from scratch—it brings warmth, joy, and a little bit of kitchen wonder to any day. With this easy recipe, you’re just a few steps away from sharing homemade happiness in every bite. Go ahead, gather your loved ones (or savor a batch yourself), and let these irresistible Donut Holes sprinkle a little extra delight into your week!

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