The festive season is upon us, and nothing says Christmas quite like warm, fluffy Cinnamon Sugar Christmas Donut Holes. Imagine sinking your teeth into these golden bites as they melt in your mouth, the sweet aroma of cinnamon wafting through the air to wrap you in a warm hug. Each donut hole bursts with flavor, capturing the essence of holiday cheer and good times.
Growing up, my family had a tradition of making these delightful treats every Christmas Eve. The kitchen would transform into a cozy haven filled with laughter, flour-covered counters, and a hint of competition over who could roll the perfect donut hole. It’s those memories that make these Cinnamon Sugar Christmas Donut Holes more than just a recipe; they’re pure nostalgia on a plate.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These delectable donut holes are easy to whip up, perfect for festive gatherings
- Their irresistible cinnamon-sugar coating adds a delightful crunch
- Ideal for breakfast or dessert, they bring joy to any occasion
- You can easily customize them by adding fillings like chocolate or fruit preserves
Sharing these donut holes with friends always elicits smiles and compliments that warm my heart.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
All-Purpose Flour: Use unbleached flour for better texture and flavor in your donut holes.
Baking Powder: Fresh baking powder ensures your donut holes rise beautifully and remain fluffy.
Cinnamon: Use ground cinnamon for that warm, holiday flavor that dances on your taste buds.
Sugar: Regular granulated sugar works perfectly for both the batter and the delightful coating.
Milk: Whole milk gives these treats their creamy richness; feel free to substitute with plant-based milk if preferred.
Eggs: Two large eggs provide moisture and help bind everything together for a perfect texture.
Butter: Melted butter adds richness; use unsalted so you can control the saltiness better.
Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile; use pure vanilla for the best result.
Vegetable Oil: For frying; make sure it has a high smoke point for crispy perfection.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Christmas Donut Holes
Prepare Your Dough Mixture: Start by whisking together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and sugar in a large bowl until well combined. This dry mixture sets the stage for those heavenly flavors.
Add Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined.
Knead Lightly and Shape Dough Balls: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead gently until it forms a soft ball. Pinch off small pieces and roll them into balls about one inch in diameter.
Heat Oil for Frying: In a deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C). To test if it’s ready, drop in a small piece of dough; it should sizzle immediately.
Fry Until Golden Brown: Carefully place several dough balls into the hot oil without overcrowding them. Fry each batch for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Use tongs to turn them gently as they cook.
Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Once fried to perfection, remove the donut holes from oil using a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels briefly. While still warm, toss them in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon until fully coated.
These Cinnamon Sugar Christmas Donut Holes are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer while still warm! Serve them at your holiday gatherings or gift them to friends—trust me; they’ll love you forever!
You Must Know
- These cinnamon sugar Christmas donut holes are not only festive but also incredibly easy to make
- The delightful aroma fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist sampling a few before serving
- Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy mornings with loved ones
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect donut holes, prepare the dough first, let it rise, then fry them until golden brown. This sequence ensures a fluffy texture and rich flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add a dash of nutmeg or vanilla extract for extra warmth in the flavor. You can also dip them in chocolate for a decadent twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat briefly in the oven to regain their delightful crispiness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best results, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying; this prevents sogginess
- Roll the donut holes in cinnamon sugar while warm for better adherence
- Always let them cool slightly before diving in to avoid burning your taste buds!
The first time I made these cinnamon sugar Christmas donut holes, my family vanished them within minutes—definitely a recipe worth keeping close!
FAQ
Can I use store-bought dough for cinnamon sugar Christmas donut holes?
Absolutely! Store-bought dough can save time and still yield delicious results.
How do I know when the oil is hot enough?
Drop a small piece of dough into the oil; if it sizzles and rises, it’s ready.
Can I freeze these donut holes?
Yes, they freeze well! Just reheat them in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy.
Cinnamon Sugar Christmas Donut Holes
Cinnamon Sugar Christmas Donut Holes are the perfect festive treat to bring warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations. These fluffy, golden bites are coated in a delightful blend of cinnamon and sugar, creating a crunchy exterior that gives way to a soft, melt-in-your-mouth interior. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the fryer or shared with loved ones, these delightful donut holes are sure to become a cherished tradition in your home.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 donut holes 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (divided)
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and 1/2 cup sugar until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined.
- Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead lightly until smooth. Pinch off small pieces and roll into balls about one inch in diameter.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (180°C). Test with a small piece of dough; it should sizzle immediately.
- Fry donut holes in batches for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Toss warm donut holes in the remaining sugar mixed with cinnamon until fully coated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 35mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: - For extra flavor, consider adding nutmeg or dipping the fried donut holes in chocolate. - Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or freeze them for later enjoyment.
