Bite-sized and packed with flavor, donut holes are a delightful dessert or snack that everyone can enjoy. These mini versions of donuts are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a family breakfast, a party, or just an afternoon treat. The best part? Donut holes are incredibly easy to make at home with just a few basic ingredients, allowing you to create a batch that rivals anything you’d find at a bakery.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to prepare donut holes from scratch, share creative topping ideas, and give you tips for making them as delicious as possible. Get ready to impress your family and friends with your homemade donut holes!
What Are Donut Holes?
Traditionally, these small, round treats were made from the leftover dough cut out from the center of regular donuts. Rather than waste this extra dough, bakers would fry it up, creating fun, bite-sized versions of their regular-sized counterparts.
Today, these bite-sized treats are often made intentionally rather than as leftovers. They can be fried or baked, and they come in various flavors and coatings—from classic sugar and cinnamon to more creative options like chocolate-dipped or glazed.
Ingredients for Classic Donut Holes
Making these mini treats at home only requires a few basic ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil for frying
Optional Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar (or powdered sugar)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
You can also use a glaze or chocolate dip to top your mini treats, giving them a little extra sweetness and flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Donut Holes
Step 1: Preparing the Dough
Start by mixing the dry ingredients in one bowl and the wet ingredients in another. Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until a dough forms. Stir gently to avoid overmixing.
Step 2: Heating the Oil
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. The oil should be about 2-3 inches deep to ensure the dough cooks evenly. You’ll want the oil to reach about 350°F (175°C). Use a kitchen thermometer to check, or drop a small piece of dough into the oil. If it sizzles and floats, the oil is ready.
Step 3: Shaping the Dough
Using a small spoon or cookie scoop, shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. The dough will be a little sticky, but that’s okay—try to keep the size consistent so they cook evenly.
Step 4: Frying
Carefully drop the dough balls into the hot oil, a few at a time. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the oil temperature to drop. Fry the dough balls for about 2-3 minutes, turning them occasionally, until they are golden brown all over.
Step 5: Draining and Cooling
Once they are golden and crisp, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate. This will help absorb excess oil. Let them cool slightly before adding any coatings or glazes.
Creative Topping Ideas
One of the best parts of making these sweet treats is customizing them with different toppings. Here are a few ideas to elevate your homemade creations:
1. Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
A classic combination that never fails—roll the warm treats in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon for a delicious, crunchy coating.
2. Powdered Sugar
For a lighter, sweeter touch, dust them with powdered sugar. This simple topping is a great way to add sweetness without overwhelming the flavor.
3. Glazed Donut Holes
Make a simple glaze with powdered sugar and a splash of milk or water. Dip the cooled treats into the glaze, then set them on a wire rack to allow the glaze to harden.
4. Chocolate Dip
For chocolate lovers, melt some chocolate chips and dip the tops of your treats into the melted chocolate. You can also sprinkle chopped nuts, coconut flakes, or sprinkles on top for added texture.
Baked Donut Holes: A Lighter Alternative
If you’re looking for a less greasy option, baking is an excellent alternative. Baked versions come out soft and fluffy, with a texture similar to mini muffins. Here’s how to make them:
Instructions for Baked Donut Holes:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin.
- Prepare the Dough: Follow the same dough recipe as for fried treats.
- Fill the Muffin Tin: Scoop the dough into the mini muffin tin, filling each cup about ¾ full.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until they are lightly golden and spring back when touched.
- Coat or Glaze: Once baked, you can roll the mini treats in cinnamon sugar or drizzle them with glaze.
Fun Variations of Donut Holes
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, feel free to experiment with different flavors and variations. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next batch:
1. Pumpkin Spice Donut Holes
Add ½ cup of pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the dough. These are perfect for fall gatherings or holiday breakfasts.
2. Maple-Glazed Donut Holes
Swap the regular glaze for a maple version by mixing powdered sugar with maple syrup. Drizzle this over your treats for a sweet, comforting flavor.
3. Lemon Zest Donut Holes
For a refreshing twist, add lemon zest to the dough and top your mini treats with a light lemon glaze. It’s a zesty alternative for those who prefer something less sweet.
Tips for Making the Best Donut Holes
Even though making these treats is easy, there are a few tricks to ensure they come out perfect every time:
1. Watch the Oil Temperature
The right oil temperature is key. If the oil is too hot, the outside will cook too quickly, leaving the inside doughy. If the oil is too cool, the dough will absorb too much oil and turn out greasy.
2. Mix the Dough Gently
Avoid overmixing the dough, as this can make your treats dense and heavy. Stir just until the ingredients are combined to keep the texture light and fluffy.
3. Fry in Small Batches
Fry a few pieces at a time to prevent the oil from cooling down too much. This ensures that they fry evenly and stay crispy on the outside.
Serving and Storing
These mini treats are best served fresh, while they’re still warm and soft. However, if you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:
Storing at Room Temperature
Place your cooled treats in an airtight container and store them at room temperature for up to two days. They will still be tasty but may lose some crispness.
Freezing Donut Holes
To freeze, arrange the fully cooled treats on a baking sheet and freeze them for about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
Why Donut Holes Are Perfect for Any Occasion
These mini treats are versatile and work for nearly any occasion. They’re great for breakfast, dessert, or even as a party snack. Because they’re small, they’re easy to grab and enjoy, making them an excellent option for sharing.
Whether it’s a cozy brunch with friends, a birthday party, or just a weekend treat, these bite-sized delights are the perfect addition to your table.
Conclusion: Enjoy Homemade Donut Holes Anytime
Donut holes are the ultimate sweet indulgence, offering all the joy of a classic donut but in a convenient, bite-sized form. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a quick dessert, these little treats are versatile enough for any event. They’re fun to make, and with so many topping and flavor options—from cinnamon sugar to chocolate glaze—you can tailor them to suit your personal taste or the preferences of your guests.
Making donut holes at home is an easy and rewarding experience, whether you fry them for that classic crispy exterior or opt for the baked version for a lighter bite. With just a few ingredients and a bit of creativity, you can whip up a batch that will impress everyone.
So next time you want to satisfy your sweet tooth, skip the bakery and make your own donut holes at home. You’ll love the freshness and the satisfaction of creating these delicious, customizable treats from scratch. Enjoy them warm, freshly coated, and ready to share!
FAQ
1. Can I bake donut holes instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake them in a mini muffin tin for a lighter version. They come out soft and fluffy, similar to mini muffins.
2. What is the best oil for frying?
Vegetable oil or canola oil is ideal for frying because of their neutral flavor and high smoke point.
3. How do I make my donut holes fluffy?
To keep them light and fluffy, avoid overmixing the dough and make sure your baking powder is fresh.
4. How do I store leftovers?
Store your treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You can also freeze them and reheat later.
5. What toppings work well with donut holes?
Popular toppings include cinnamon-sugar, powdered sugar, glaze, chocolate dip, and sprinkles. You can customize them with your favorite flavors.
6. Can I make donut holes ahead of time?
Yes, you can make donut holes ahead of time. Fry or bake them, allow them to cool, and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For the best results, reheat them slightly in the oven before serving to restore their warmth and softness.
7. How do I prevent donut holes from becoming greasy?
To prevent greasy donut holes, ensure the oil temperature is around 350°F (175°C). If the oil is too cold, the dough will absorb excess oil, making the donut holes greasy. Use a thermometer to keep the oil at the right temperature and fry in small batches.
8. Can I air fry donut holes?
Yes! You can air fry donut holes for a healthier alternative. Shape the dough, lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil, and cook the donut holes at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should come out golden and fluffy.
9. What can I serve with donut holes?
Donut holes pair well with coffee, hot chocolate, or tea for breakfast or brunch. For dessert, you can serve them with a variety of dipping sauces like chocolate, caramel, or even fruit jams.
10. Can I use gluten-free flour to make donut holes?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for better texture. The flavor and texture may vary slightly, but they should still be delicious!