Do you crave a sweet treat that’s easy to make? These Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes hit the spot! With simple ingredients like flour, sugar, and cinnamon, I’ll guide you step-by-step to bake soft, fluffy donut holes. Whether you’re enjoying them with coffee or sharing at a party, these delights are sure to please everyone. Let’s dive in and make these tasty bites together!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus extra for coating)
– 1 large egg
– ¾ cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
To make baked cinnamon sugar donut holes, you need the right ingredients. All-purpose flour gives the donut holes their structure. Granulated sugar adds sweetness. Baking powder and baking soda help them rise. A little salt enhances the flavor. Ground cinnamon is key for that warm, cozy taste. Buttermilk keeps the donut holes moist. The egg binds everything together, while vegetable oil adds richness.
Coating Ingredients
– ½ cup melted butter
– ½ cup granulated sugar (for coating)
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating)
After baking, the donut holes get a tasty coating. Melted butter helps the sugar and cinnamon stick. A mix of granulated sugar and extra cinnamon makes them irresistible. This coating gives each donut hole a sweet crunch. It’s the finishing touch that turns them into a delightful treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Pan
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step warms the oven for even baking. Next, get your mini muffin pan ready by greasing it with non-stick cooking spray. This keeps the donut holes from sticking.
Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– ¼ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Whisk these together until they blend well. This step ensures you have a good rise in your donut holes.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together:
– 1 large egg
– ¾ cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure the mixture is smooth. This adds moisture and flavor to your donut holes.
Combining Mixtures
Now, pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. You want the batter to be thick but smooth for the best texture.
Baking the Donut Holes
Using a tablespoon, fill each well of the mini muffin pan about ¾ full with the batter. Bake these in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes. They should turn golden brown. To check if they are done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, they are ready!
Coating the Donut Holes
While the donut holes bake, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating. Mix together:
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Once the donut holes cool for about 5 minutes, carefully remove them from the pan. Dip each one in melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. This adds that sweet, crunchy finish that makes them irresistible!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Texture
To get the best texture, avoid overmixing the batter. When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, stir just until you see no dry flour. If you mix too much, your donut holes become dense and tough.
To know when your donut holes are done, look for a golden brown color. A toothpick test works well. Insert it into the center; if it comes out clean, they are ready. Bake them for 10-12 minutes for the best result.
Enhancing Flavor
You can enhance the flavor by adding spices like nutmeg or ginger. These spices add warmth and depth to your donut holes. You might also try a pinch of cardamom for a unique twist.
Experimenting with flavored extracts can bring new life to your treats. Instead of vanilla, use almond or lemon extract for a different taste. Just remember to keep the amount small, as extracts are potent.
Serving Suggestions
These donut holes pair perfectly with coffee or tea. Their sweet, warm flavor complements a rich cup of coffee. For tea lovers, a nice chai or herbal tea works well, too.
For special occasions, consider a fun presentation. Arrange them on a tiered cake stand. You can also dust them with powdered sugar for a festive look. A simple plate with a colorful napkin can make them shine, too.
Variations
Flavor Infusions
You can create fun twists on your baked cinnamon sugar donut holes!
– Adding chocolate or nut flavors: Mix in chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter. This adds more texture and richness. Try walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch. For a chocolate lover’s dream, use dark or milk chocolate chips.
– Utilizing different spices: You can switch up the spices for unique flavors. Try nutmeg or cardamom for a warm taste. A pinch of allspice will also add depth to your donut holes.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking to make a lighter version, consider these swaps.
– Substituting whole wheat flour: You can replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This adds fiber and nutrients while keeping the texture delightful.
– Reducing sugar and adding fruits: Cut the sugar in half and add mashed bananas or applesauce. This adds natural sweetness and moisture to your donut holes.
Vegan and Gluten-Free Options
You can easily adapt this recipe to fit different diets.
– Ingredient swaps for vegan diet: Replace the egg with a flaxseed meal. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. Use almond or soy milk instead of buttermilk.
– Flour alternatives for gluten-free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. This works great in most baked goods. Just be sure it has a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best results.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing
To keep your baked cinnamon sugar donut holes fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a piece of parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. These sweet treats stay fresh for up to three days at room temperature.
If you want to save them for later, freezing is a great option. To freeze, first let the donut holes cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. This method prevents them from clumping together. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months.
Reheating Techniques
To reheat your donut holes, the oven is your best friend. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the donut holes on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes. This method keeps them soft and warm without losing their texture.
If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Heat them for about 10-15 seconds. Just be careful not to overheat them, or they may become tough. Once reheated, serve them warm with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon sugar for a delightful treat.
FAQs
How long do baked cinnamon sugar donut holes last?
Baked cinnamon sugar donut holes stay fresh for about three days. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This helps keep them soft and tasty. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them. Just wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.
Can I make these donut holes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these donut holes ahead of time. Bake them and let them cool completely. Then, store them in an airtight container. You can enjoy them the next day or even freeze them for later. Just thaw and reheat when you want a sweet treat.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute. Mix ¾ cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about five minutes. This will give you a similar tangy flavor and texture. You can also use plain yogurt or sour cream, thinned with a little milk.
Are baked donut holes healthier than fried ones?
Yes, baked donut holes are generally healthier than fried ones. Baking uses less oil, which reduces calories and fat. Baked versions also tend to have fewer unhealthy fats. You still get the sweet and tasty flavor, but with fewer worries about extra calories.
Can I add toppings or glazes to these donut holes?
Absolutely! You can add toppings or glazes to make them even more special. Try a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk. You can also sprinkle chocolate chips, nuts, or sprinkles on top. Get creative and have fun with different flavors!
You learned the key ingredients for delicious baked cinnamon sugar donut holes, from flour to buttermilk. We covered each step to create these treats, including helpful tips for texture and flavor. Explore variations to tailor the recipe to your tastes or dietary needs.
With proper storage and reheating, you can enjoy them longer. Baking these donut holes is simple and rewarding. Enjoy your baking adventure and share these delights with friends and family!
