Dessert

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes Recipe

ByLana Polati December 22, 2025December 22, 2025

Introduction

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes are a delightful treat that combine a soft, fluffy interior with a crisp cinnamon-sugar coating. Perfect for a quick snack or a festive breakfast, these bite-sized donuts are easy to make and irresistibly delicious.

A close-up view of many small round fritters covered in a rough cinnamon-sugar coating, showing a mix of golden brown and darker speckled shades on the outside. One fritter is broken open in the center to reveal a light beige, soft and fluffy inside texture with tiny air pockets. The fritters are placed closely together on a white plate, set against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 cup whole milk
1 large egg
1/3 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons melted butter
Oil (for frying)
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
2 teaspoons cinnamon (for coating)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, nutmeg, cinnamon, and baking powder. In a separate small bowl, combine the 1/2 cup sugar with 2 teaspoons cinnamon for the coating and set aside.
Step 2: Pour oil into a large, deep skillet to a depth of 2 to 3 inches. Heat the oil to between 360°F and 375°F. Use a clip-on thermometer for best accuracy or test by dropping a bit of water into the oil; if it sizzles, it’s ready.
Step 3: In a large bowl, whisk the milk, egg, sugar, and melted butter together. Add the dry ingredients to the wet and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as the batter will be sticky.
Step 4: Using two spoons or a small cookie scoop sprayed with non-stick spray, scoop about 2 teaspoons of batter for each donut hole.
Step 5: Carefully drop 5 to 7 donut holes at a time into the hot oil. Fry for 1 to 2 minutes on each side, flipping as needed. Donut holes will move and flip in the oil—avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
Step 6: When golden brown and cooked through, remove the donut holes with a slotted spoon and immediately toss them in the cinnamon sugar coating. Serve right away for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

Use a candy or clip-on thermometer to maintain consistent oil temperature, which helps achieve an even golden crust without greasy donuts.
Try adding a pinch of cardamom or allspice to the dry mix for a warm, aromatic twist.
For a lighter version, bake the donut holes at 375°F for about 12–15 minutes, then roll in cinnamon sugar while warm.

Storage

Store leftover donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in a warm oven or toaster oven to refresh their crispness. Avoid refrigerating as it can make them dense and less flavorful.

How to Serve

A close-up view of many small, round fritters covered in a rough, golden-brown cinnamon sugar crust, piled together on a white plate. One fritter is bitten into, revealing a soft, light, and slightly airy inside with a pale yellow color and specks of cinnamon. The texture looks crispy and sugary on the outside while soft and moist on the inside. The background features a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk with 2% or skim milk, but whole milk provides the best richness and tenderness for the donut holes.

What oil is best for frying these donut holes?

Neutral oils with a high smoke point like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil work best to fry donut holes safely and evenly.

Lana Polati