Cinnamon Sugar Baked Donut Holes Delightful Treat

If you’re craving a sweet treat that’s easy to make, look no further! My Cinnamon Sugar Baked Donut Holes are perfect for breakfast or a snack. These bite-sized delights are soft, fluffy, and coated in a heavenly cinnamon sugar mix. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have warm, delicious donut holes ready to enjoy. Let’s dive into making this delightful treat together!

Ingredients

List of Main Ingredients

To make cinnamon sugar baked donut holes, gather these main ingredients:

- 2 cups all-purpose flour

- 1/2 cup granulated sugar

- 2 teaspoons baking powder

- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

- 1 large egg

- 1/2 cup milk

- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce

- 2 tablespoons melted butter (cooled)

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Coating

For the tasty cinnamon sugar coating, you will need:

- 1/2 cup granulated sugar

- 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

Substitutions for Common Ingredients

You can swap out some ingredients if needed:

- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for more fiber.

- Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.

- Substitute almond milk for regular milk to make it dairy-free.

- Applesauce can be replaced with mashed banana for a different flavor.

- Use olive oil instead of melted butter for a healthier option.

These choices keep the recipe flexible while still being delicious!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation and Preheating

First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is key for even baking. While the oven heats, lightly grease a mini muffin tin with cooking spray. This helps the donut holes pop out easily after baking.

Mixing Wet and Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients. Add 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg. Whisk them well until everything mixes evenly.

Now, in another bowl, beat 1 large egg. Stir in 1/2 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 2 tablespoons of melted butter (cooled), and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until smooth. Pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Fold gently until just combined. Remember, a few lumps are fine!

Baking the Donut Holes

Using a spoon or small cookie scoop, fill each muffin cup about 3/4 full with batter. This ensures they have room to rise. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick. It should come out clean when they are ready.

While your donut holes bake, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating. In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of granulated sugar with 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon. Once the donut holes are done, let them cool for about 5 minutes in the tin. Carefully remove them and roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture while they are still warm. This step makes them extra tasty!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving Perfectly Baked Donut Holes

To make perfect baked donut holes, start with fresh ingredients. Check your baking powder and baking soda for freshness. Mix your dry ingredients well to avoid clumps. When mixing wet and dry ingredients, stop when just combined. Lumps are okay! This helps keep them soft. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. Look for a golden top and a clean toothpick.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t overmix your batter, as this can make the donut holes tough. Avoid opening the oven door too soon. This can cause them to sink. Be sure to grease your muffin tin well. If stuck, they won’t come out smoothly. Lastly, let them cool for a few minutes before rolling in sugar. This helps the coating stick better.

How to Get an Even Sugar Coating

To coat the donut holes evenly, roll them while they’re warm. This helps the sugar stick. Use a bowl that’s large enough for easy rolling. Mix the sugar and cinnamon well before coating. If you want extra sweetness, roll them twice! This will give you a thicker coat of cinnamon sugar. Enjoy every bite!

Variations

Flavor Variations (e.g., chocolate, pumpkin spice)

You can switch up the flavor of your donut holes easily. If you crave chocolate, replace some flour with cocoa powder. Use about 1/3 cup of cocoa for a rich taste. For a cozy twist, add pumpkin spice. Mix in 1 tablespoon of pumpkin spice with the dry ingredients. You can also fold in mini chocolate chips for extra indulgence. These changes make your treats unique and fun!

Alternative Toppings and Glazes

While the cinnamon sugar coating is classic, try new toppings. A simple glaze adds sweetness. Mix powdered sugar with milk for a smooth glaze. Drizzle it over warm donut holes for a treat. You can also use melted chocolate or a fruit glaze. Try a berry glaze by cooking berries down with sugar. These toppings make your donut holes even more special.

Gluten-Free and Vegan Adjustments

You can make these donut holes gluten-free by using almond flour or a gluten-free blend. Just replace the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of gluten-free flour. For a vegan option, swap the egg with a flax egg. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes. Use almond milk instead of regular milk and applesauce instead of butter. These adjustments keep the flavor while making the recipe fit different diets.

Storage Info

How to Store Baked Donut Holes

To keep your baked donut holes fresh, place them in an airtight container. A zip-top bag works too. They can last up to three days at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, store them in the fridge. Just remember to let them cool completely before sealing them up.

Freezing Instructions for Meal Prep

Freezing is a great option for these tasty treats. First, let the donut holes cool down. Then, arrange them on a baking sheet without touching. Freeze them for about an hour. Once they are firm, transfer them to a zip-top bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. Just label the bag with the date so you know when you made them.

Reheating Tips to Maintain Freshness

When you are ready to enjoy your donut holes again, reheating is simple. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the donut holes on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 5 to 7 minutes. This helps them regain their softness. If you want them warm and cozy, you can also use the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat, or they may become tough. Enjoy them warm for the best taste!

FAQs

How long do baked donut holes last?

Baked donut holes can last about three days. Store them in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and soft. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them.

Can I make these donut holes in advance?

Yes, you can make these donut holes in advance. Bake them and let them cool. Then, store them in an airtight container. They taste great even a day later. Just remember to roll them in cinnamon sugar right before serving for the best flavor.

What can I serve with cinnamon sugar donut holes?

You can serve cinnamon sugar donut holes with a few fun dips. Try chocolate sauce for a sweet treat. Caramel sauce also pairs well and adds a nice touch. For a lighter option, serve them with whipped cream or a fruit dip.

You learned about making delicious baked donut holes from start to finish. We covered ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips for success, and fun variations. Remember to store your donut holes properly for freshness. Making these treats is easy, fun, and customizable. Try different flavors and toppings to make them your own. Enjoy your baking journey and delight in your tasty creations!