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Homemade Donut Holes with Cinnamon Sugar and Glaze Recipe

4.8 from 131 reviews

These classic homemade donut holes are soft, fluffy, and perfectly golden with a delightful crispy exterior. Deep-fried to perfection and optionally coated with a sweet vanilla glaze or cinnamon sugar, they make an irresistible treat for breakfast or snacks.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 3 teaspoons (14g) baking powder
  • ¾ teaspoon (4g) salt
  • ½1 teaspoon (1-2g) ground nutmeg

Wet Ingredients

  • ¾ cup (177ml) whole milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ teaspoon (2-3ml) vanilla extract
  • 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter, melted

For Frying

  • Oil (for deep-frying)

Glaze (Optional)

  • ½ cup (50g) powdered sugar
  • 3 tablespoons (45ml) whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) vanilla extract

Cinnamon Sugar Coating (Optional)

  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon (8g) ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground nutmeg. Stir well to evenly distribute the leavening and spices.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the whole milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Add the melted unsalted butter and mix thoroughly until smooth and combined.
  3. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until fully incorporated and the dough is uniform. Set the batter aside while preparing the oil for frying.
  4. Prepare Frying Oil: Fill a medium pot with at least 3 inches (5 cm) of oil to allow the donut holes to float and cook evenly. Heat the oil to 375℉ (175℃) using a thermometer to monitor the temperature precisely.
  5. Drain Setup: While the oil heats, line a plate or baking sheet with paper towels to absorb excess oil from the donut holes after frying.
  6. Begin Frying: Once the oil is at temperature, reduce the heat to medium-low. Using an ice cream scoop or spoon, scoop 1-2 tablespoons of dough and gently drop into the hot oil. Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which can reduce oil temperature and cause sogginess.
  7. Cook Donut Holes: Fry the dough balls for about 1-2 minutes on one side until golden brown. Flip them carefully and fry the other side for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden and cooked through.
  8. Drain Donuts: Remove the fried donut holes with a large slotted spoon or skimmer and place them immediately on the prepared paper towels to soak up excess oil. Taste one to check doneness before frying the rest.
  9. Finish Frying: Repeat frying with remaining batter, ensuring oil returns to correct temperature before each batch.
  10. Prepare Cinnamon Sugar (Optional): In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon together. While donut holes are still hot, roll them in the cinnamon sugar to coat thoroughly. Serve immediately.
  11. Prepare Glaze (Optional): While donut holes cool slightly, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. Adjust thickness by adding more powdered sugar or milk to get a thick but pourable consistency.
  12. Glaze Donut Holes: Drizzle the glaze over warm donut holes or dip each donut hole in the glaze, ensuring an even coating. Place glazed donut holes on a wire rack to let the glaze set before serving.

Notes

  • Maintaining the oil temperature at 375℉ (175℃) is crucial for crispy and evenly cooked donut holes.
  • Do not overcrowd the frying pot to prevent the oil temperature from dropping too much, which will result in greasy donuts.
  • You can adjust the nutmeg amount according to your preference; it adds a warm spice flavor.
  • Glaze or cinnamon sugar coating is optional but highly recommended for added flavor.
  • Use a thermometer for oil temperature accuracy and safety.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature and reheat briefly for freshness.

Keywords: donut holes, deep-fried donuts, cinnamon sugar donuts, glazed donuts, homemade donut holes, breakfast treats, fried dough balls