Easy Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes (Soft Inside, Crispy Outside)

These easy air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes are proof that you don’t need deep frying to enjoy a warm, homemade treat. They’re quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.

Once you’ve mastered this recipe, experiment with different spices, flavored sugars, or dipping sauces to make it your own. If you’re looking for more quick sweets, browse our collection of must-try air fryer desserts for families for even more easy ideas.

The first time we made these cinnamon sugar donut holes in the air fryer, we expected a decent shortcut. Instead, we ended up with warm, fluffy bites that disappeared before they had time to cool.

That made us wonder why such a simple recipe could taste so close to bakery-style donut holes with so much less oil. Once you know the small tricks, you’ll want to make them again and again.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes

If you’re craving fresh donuts but don’t want the mess of deep frying, these air fryer cinnamon sugar donut holes are the answer. They deliver a soft, fluffy center with a lightly crisp exterior, then get tossed in buttery cinnamon sugar while still warm. The result is a homemade treat that tastes comforting without requiring a pot of hot oil.

Whether you’re making breakfast for the family, a weekend brunch, or a quick dessert, this recipe comes together with simple pantry ingredients and very little cleanup. If you’re new to air fryer baking, it’s also a great beginner recipe because the steps are straightforward and forgiving.

If you’re still getting comfortable baking in your air fryer, our guide on how to preheat an air fryer explains when preheating helps you get more even results.

Here’s why you’ll want to keep this recipe on repeat:

• Ready in about 20 minutes from start to finish.
• No deep frying or large amounts of oil.
• Soft, tender centers with lightly crisp edges.
• Coated in warm cinnamon sugar for classic donut flavor.
• Made with everyday ingredients you probably already have.
• Great for breakfast, brunch, snacks, or dessert.
• Easy to customize with different spices, glazes, or fillings.
• Kid-friendly and fun to make together.
• Smaller portions make them easy to serve at parties or holiday gatherings.
• Leftovers reheat well in the air fryer for a fresh-from-the-bakery texture.

These bite-sized treats are best enjoyed warm, when the butter helps the cinnamon sugar cling to every piece and the inside stays light and fluffy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about these air fryer donut holes is that they don’t require specialty ingredients. Everything is easy to find at most grocery stores, and many items are probably already in your kitchen.

Main Ingredients

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• Granulated sugar
• Ground cinnamon
• Melted butter

Optional Add-Ins

If you’d like to change the flavor, try adding:

• Pumpkin pie spice
• Apple pie spice
• Nutmeg
• Orange zest
• Mini chocolate chips
• Finely chopped pecans
• Maple extract instead of vanilla

Using fresh baking powder makes a noticeable difference because it helps the donut holes rise evenly instead of becoming dense. Measure the flour carefully by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off rather than scooping directly from the bag, which can pack in too much flour.

If you’re interested in more quick desserts that cook beautifully in the air fryer, you’ll also enjoy these 10 Easy Air Fryer Desserts in Minutes.

Easy Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes Recipe

Recipe Summary

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Silicone spatula or wooden spoon
• Small bowl for cinnamon sugar
• Pastry brush
• Cooling rack (optional)

Ingredients

Donut Holes

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for 3 to 5 minutes.

Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.

Add the Greek yogurt and vanilla extract. Stir until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Shape the Donut Holes

Lightly flour your hands.

Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. You should have about 16 to 18 pieces.

Step 4: Arrange in the Basket

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.

Place the dough balls in a single layer, leaving space between each one.

Cook in batches if needed.

Step 5: Air Fry

Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes.

Shake the basket halfway through cooking.

The donut holes are done when they are lightly golden and spring back when gently pressed.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar

While the donut holes cook, combine the sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.

Melt the butter in a separate bowl.

Step 7: Coat the Donut Holes

Brush each warm donut hole with melted butter.

Roll them in the cinnamon sugar until evenly coated.

Step 8: Serve

Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

Serving Size: 1 donut hole (based on 16 servings)

Nutrition Disclaimer

Nutrition information is automatically estimated using standard ingredient databases. Actual values may vary depending on the specific brands, substitutions, and serving sizes used.

Recipe Tips

• Measure the flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.
• Brush with butter while the donut holes are still warm.
• Air fryer models cook differently, so begin checking around the 8-minute mark.

Variations

• Use refrigerated biscuit dough for a shortcut version.
• Replace vanilla with maple extract.
• Add pumpkin pie spice to the cinnamon sugar.
• Stir mini chocolate chips into the dough.
• Serve with chocolate or caramel dipping sauce.

Storage

Store cooled donut holes in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature or 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat in the air fryer at 320°F for 2 to 3 minutes.

For a softer texture, microwave for 10 to 15 seconds.

For consistent baking results, our guide on air fryer cooking times explains why every air fryer cooks a little differently.

Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

While the donut holes are still warm:

1. Brush each one with melted butter.
2. Mix the cinnamon and sugar in a shallow bowl.
3. Roll each donut hole until fully coated.

Serve immediately while they’re warm and fluffy.

Tips for Soft Centers and Crispy Edges

Small adjustments can make a big difference.

• Preheat the air fryer for more even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket.
• Roll each dough ball the same size.
• Shake the basket halfway through cooking.
• Brush with butter while still warm.
• Coat immediately with cinnamon sugar.
• Avoid overcooking, even one or two extra minutes can dry them out.
• Let them cool for only 2 to 3 minutes before serving.

These simple tips help create a lightly crisp outside while keeping the center soft and tender.

Easy Recipe Variations

You can change this recipe without changing the cooking method.

Greek Yogurt Donut Holes

Plain Greek yogurt creates a soft, fluffy texture and adds extra protein. It’s one of the easiest homemade versions.

No Yogurt Donut Holes

Replace the yogurt with:

• Sour cream
• Whole milk and a little melted butter
• Buttermilk

The texture will be slightly different but still tender.

No Yeast Donut Holes

This recipe uses baking powder, so there’s no waiting for dough to rise. It’s ideal when you want fresh donut holes in under 20 minutes.

Biscuit Dough Shortcut

Pressed for time? Cut refrigerated biscuit dough into small pieces, roll into balls, and air fry for 6 to 8 minutes at 350°F. Finish with melted butter and cinnamon sugar.

Pumpkin Spice Version

Swap part of the cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice for a cozy fall flavor. They pair well with coffee or hot cider.

Chocolate Cinnamon Sugar

Mix a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder into the cinnamon sugar for a rich chocolate twist.

If you enjoy quick sweet recipes like this, you’ll also love these Air Fryer Desserts You’ll Make on Repeat.

What to Serve with Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes

These bite-sized treats work for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Try serving them with:

• Fresh berries
• Vanilla yogurt
• Chocolate sauce
• Caramel dip
• Cream cheese dip
• Maple syrup
• Hot coffee
• Chai latte
• Hot chocolate
• Cold milk

For a brunch spread, serve them alongside fruit and eggs for a balanced meal.

Freeze:

1. Place cooled donut holes on a baking sheet until frozen.
2. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
3. Freeze for up to 2 months.

For more reheating tips, see our guide on how to reheat leftovers in the air fryer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A few small mistakes can affect the texture.

• Adding too much flour makes the donut holes dense.
• Skipping preheating can lead to uneven cooking.
• Overcrowding the basket prevents even browning.
• Overcooking dries out the centers.
• Waiting too long before adding the cinnamon sugar keeps it from sticking well.
• Making the dough balls different sizes causes uneven cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned biscuit dough?

Yes. It’s a quick shortcut. Roll the biscuit pieces into balls and air fry at 350°F for 6 to 8 minutes before coating with butter and cinnamon sugar.

Can I make these without Greek yogurt?

Yes. Sour cream, buttermilk, or whole milk with a little melted butter all work as substitutes.

Why are my donut holes dry?

Too much flour or overcooking are the most common reasons. Measure carefully and check them around the 8-minute mark.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Preheating isn’t always required, but it helps the donut holes cook more evenly and brown better.

Can I freeze cinnamon sugar donut holes?

Yes. Freeze them for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer for the best texture.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes. Cover the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and cooking.

Why isn’t the cinnamon sugar sticking?

Brush the donut holes with melted butter immediately after cooking, then roll them in the cinnamon sugar while they’re still warm.