There’s something truly satisfying about the warm, sweet aroma of cinnamon sugar dancing through the kitchen—especially when it’s coming from a batch of Air Fried Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes made from a simple biscuit hack. I stumbled onto this easy treat when I wanted to recreate the nostalgic joy of fairground donuts without the mess of deep frying. In less than 20 minutes, these golden, crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside bites come together effortlessly, perfect for a cozy breakfast or an anytime snack that feels indulgent but is actually super quick to make. If you love homemade flavors but want to skip the fast food drive-thru, this recipe will become your new secret weapon. Let me show you how to turn ordinary biscuits into extraordinary donut holes—crispy, sweet, and utterly addictive!
Why choose Air Fried Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes?
Quick and Easy: This biscuit hack transforms simple pantry staples into irresistible donut holes in under 20 minutes. Crispy Outside, Soft Inside: Air frying gives you that perfect golden crunch while keeping the centers tender and fluffy. Mess-Free Indulgence: No deep frying required—just a healthy, hassle-free treat. Irresistible Flavor: The warm cinnamon sugar coating fills your kitchen with nostalgia and cozy vibes. Versatile Snack: Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or sharing at gatherings. Crowd-Pleasing: Everyone loves these bite-sized delights, making them your go-to recipe for impressive homemade goodness!
Air Fried Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes Ingredients
For the Donut Holes
- Canned biscuit dough – The key to this Air Fried Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes recipe; easy, ready-made, and creates soft, fluffy bites.
- Cooking spray – Helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior without added oil or mess.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- Granulated sugar – Provides that sweet crunch that makes these donut holes so addictive.
- Ground cinnamon – Adds warm spice and classic flavor, perfectly complementing the sugar.
- Melted butter – Helps the cinnamon sugar stick to the donut holes and adds rich flavor.
How to Make Air Fried Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F, giving it about 3 minutes to reach the perfect temperature for golden, crispy donut holes.
- Shape the canned biscuits by rolling each one into a tight ball, smoothing seams to ensure even puff and soft centers.
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray, then place the donut balls in a single layer, leaving small gaps for hot air circulation.
- Air-fry the donut holes at 350°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until they’re golden brown and crisp on the outside.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- Combine granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl, whisking thoroughly to ensure the sugar is evenly spiced and ready to coat each warm donut hole.
- Coat the warm donut holes by gently brushing with melted butter, then tossing them in the cinnamon sugar until each morsel is evenly covered.
Optional: Serve with drizzled glaze or fresh strawberries for extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Air Fried Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
- Choose Quality Biscuits: Use fresh, flaky canned biscuits for the best texture; stale or old dough can lead to dense donut holes.
- Don’t Overcrowd Basket: Arrange donut holes with space in the air fryer to allow even cooking and crisping on all sides.
- Flip Midway: Turning the donut holes halfway through air frying prevents uneven browning and ensures a perfect golden crunch.
- Brush Butter While Warm: Apply melted butter immediately after frying so the cinnamon sugar sticks evenly and melts slightly for a luscious coating.
- Control Sugar-Cinnamon Ratio: Adjust the cinnamon amount to your taste preference to avoid overpowering your Air Fried Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes recipe.
- Serve Fresh: These bites are best enjoyed right away to savor their crispy exterior and soft interior before they lose texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fried Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes are perfect for meal prep, letting you indulge in a warm, homemade treat whenever the craving strikes! You can prepare the biscuit dough balls up to 24 hours in advance—simply roll and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then cover tightly with plastic wrap. This keeps them fresh and ready to air fry. When you’re ready to enjoy, just preheat your air fryer, pop them in, and air fry as directed. For the cinnamon sugar coating, you can mix the sugar and cinnamon ahead of time, ensuring that everything is just as delicious and cozy, allowing you to skip the fast food run and savor a homemade delight anytime!
How to Store and Freeze Air Fried Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
Room Temperature: Store leftover donut holes in an airtight container for up to 2 days; they are best enjoyed fresh but can last a short time at room temperature.
Fridge: If you want to extend their life, keep the donut holes in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container, but note they may lose some crispness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To restore crispness, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes, making your Air Fried Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes feel freshly made again!
Variations & Substitutions for Air Fried Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
Feel free to get creative and customize these delightful donut holes to suit your taste and preferences!
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Nut-Free: Substitute the butter in the cinnamon sugar coating with coconut oil for a vegan-friendly option that delivers on flavor.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free biscuit dough to make these donut holes a delicious option for those with gluten sensitivities.
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Seasonal Spices: Swap out cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice during the fall for a cozy, seasonal twist that pairs wonderfully with the sweet sugar.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Once coated in cinnamon sugar, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the donut holes for a decadent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Fruit Infusion: Incorporate finely chopped fruit like apples or berries into the biscuit dough for a burst of flavor inside each donut hole.
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Coconut Coating: After brushing with butter, roll the donut holes in shredded coconut for a tropical flair that adds texture and a delightful sweetness.
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Spicy Kick: Introduce a pinch of cayenne pepper to your cinnamon sugar for an exciting heat that complements the sweetness beautifully.
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Zesty Boost: Add a teaspoon of vanilla or almond extract to the dough for a fragrant flavor enhancement that makes each bite even more enjoyable.
What to Serve with Air Fried Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes?
There’s nothing quite like the joy of pairing warm, cinnamon-sugar treats with complementary flavors that elevate your snacking experience.
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Fresh Berries: Bright and juicy, strawberries or raspberries provide a refreshing contrast to the rich sweetness of the donut holes. Their natural tartness beautifully balances the flavors. Try serving a small bowl on the side for a delightful combination.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cool, a scoop of vanilla ice cream makes for a sumptuous treat when paired with warm donut holes. This luscious contrast of temperatures is sure to impress friends and family and turns a simple snack into a dessert perfection.
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Coffee or Hot Chocolate: The rich flavors of coffee or a cozy cup of hot chocolate make perfect companions to the cinnamon sugar goodness. This warm beverage pairing brings out the comforting notes and is ideal for a delightful afternoon treat.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A sweet drizzle of maple syrup adds another layer of flavor, perfectly complementing the cinnamon sugar coating. It’s especially delightful if you enjoy a little extra sweetness with each bite.
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Chocolate Ganache: Decadent and rich, a small bowl of chocolate ganache for dipping adds a delightful twist to the donut holes. The combination is heavenly, creating a truly indulgent experience.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream alongside your donut holes brightens the dish. The creaminess softens the sweet crunch, forming a delightful texture contrast that visitors won’t forget.
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Sliced Bananas: Ripe banana slices add a sweet and creamy element that pairs wonderfully with the delicious flavors of your donut holes. Try layering them together for a new twist on flavor and texture.
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Sparkling Cider or Lemonade: For a refreshing drink option, serve sparkling cider or cold homemade lemonade. The bright flavors cut through the sweetness of the donut holes, making for a satisfying meal.
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Cinnamon Butter: For an enhanced experience, serve a small dish of cinnamon butter as a dip. It brings even more of that cozy cinnamon flavor while adding a creamy texture that’s simply irresistible.
Air Fried Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes (Biscuit Hack) Recipe FAQs
How do I know if the canned biscuits are fresh enough to use?
Always check the expiration date on the can and avoid biscuits that have any noticeable discoloration or a sour smell. Fresh biscuit dough should be soft and pliable, without dry or sticky spots.
What’s the best way to store leftover Air Fried Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain texture and flavor. If you need longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days, though they might lose some crispness.
Can I freeze these donut holes, and if so, how?
Absolutely! Freeze by placing the cooled donut holes on a baking sheet in a single layer to prevent sticking. Once frozen solid (about 1-2 hours), transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3-4 minutes to regain that perfect crunch.
What if my donut holes don’t get crispy enough in the air fryer?
Try not to overcrowd the basket so the hot air can circulate properly. Also, make sure to flip the donut holes halfway through cooking. If they still seem soft, add an extra 2 minutes of air frying but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Are these donut holes safe for pets or people with allergies?
This recipe includes ingredients like butter and cinnamon, which may not be ideal for pets. Also, canned biscuits usually contain gluten and dairy, so they are not suitable for those with allergies or intolerances to these ingredients. For allergy-friendly versions, consider gluten-free biscuits and dairy substitutes.
Easy Air Fried Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes Recipe – Biscuit Hack Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F, giving it about 3 minutes to reach the perfect temperature.
- Shape the canned biscuits by rolling each one into a tight ball.
- Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray, then place the donut balls in a single layer.
- Air-fry the donut holes at 350°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Combine granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
- Coat the warm donut holes with melted butter, then toss them in the cinnamon sugar.
