Cinnamon Baked Donut Holes Recipe

So you’re craving donuts… but not the deep-frying, oil-splattering, “why is my kitchen a disaster?” kind of donuts? Yeah, same. 😅
Enter: these cinnamon-baked donut holes—tiny bites of happiness that are fluffy, sweet, and dangerously poppable. Like, “I’ll just have one” turns into ten real quick. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.

Why This Recipe is Awesome

• Let’s break it down—why are these little guys worth your time?
• No frying = no drama. Your stove stays clean, your life stays peaceful.
• Quick and easy. You can whip these up faster than you can decide what to watch on Netflix.
• Soft, fluffy, cinnamon goodness. Basically, dessert therapy.
• Beginner-friendly. Honestly, if you can stir and scoop, you’ve got this.
  And the best part? They taste like those cozy bakery treats… without the bakery price tag. Win-win. 🙌

Ingredients You’ll Need

Nothing fancy here—just pantry basics doing their thing:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (the MVP)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (because sweet = happy)
• 1 tsp baking powder (fluff magic)
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (the star of the show)
• 1/4 tsp salt (tiny but important)
• 1/3 cup milk (keeps things moist—yes, I said moist)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp melted butter (because butter makes everything better)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional but highly recommended)

For the coating:

• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1/3 cup sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat that oven.
   Set it to 350°F (175°C). Seriously, don’t skip this. Cold ovens = sad donut holes.
2. Mix the dry ingredients.
   In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Easy peasy.
3. Combine the wet ingredients.
   In another bowl, mix milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla. Stir until smooth.
4. Bring it all together.
   Pour the wet mix into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix unless you enjoy dense, chewy regret.
5. Fill the pan.
   Grease a mini muffin pan (or donut hole pan if you’re fancy). Fill each cavity about 3/4 full.
6. Bake.
   Pop them in the oven for 10–12 minutes. They should be lightly golden and spring back when touched.
7. Coat in cinnamon sugar goodness.
   Let them cool slightly, then dip each one in melted butter and roll in the cinnamon-sugar mix.
   Yes, this step is mandatory. No shortcuts here.
8. Eat immediately.
   Or try to wait. I dare you.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping preheating.
  I said it before, I’ll say it again—preheat your oven. This isn’t optional.
• Overmixing the batter.
  You’re making donut holes, not bread. Mix gently and stop when combined.
• Overfilling the pan.
  These rise, okay? Don’t turn them into muffin tops unless that’s your goal.
• Forgetting the coating.
  Plain donut holes? Why would you do that to yourself?

Alternatives & Substitutions

• No butter? Use oil instead. IMO, butter tastes better, but oil gets the job done.
• Dairy-free? Swap milk for almond or oat milk—easy fix.
• Want it healthier? Use whole wheat flour, but expect a slightly denser texture.
• Add-ins? Chocolate chips, nutmeg, or even a hint of cardamom—get creative.
• Feeling wild? Drizzle some glaze on top instead of cinnamon sugar. I won’t judge.

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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Can I make these without a mini muffin pan?

Technically yes… but they won’t be “holes.” You’ll get small muffins instead. Still tasty though!

Can I air fry these instead of baking?

Yep! Just adjust the time and keep an eye on them. They cook faster—don’t wander off.

Can I freeze donut holes?

You can, but fresh is best. If freezing, skip the coating and add it after reheating.

Why are my donut holes dense?

You probably overmixed the batter. Be gentle—this isn’t a workout.

Can I use brown sugar instead of white?

Absolutely. It’ll add a deeper, caramel-like flavor. Fancy, right?

How long do they stay fresh?

About 2–3 days in an airtight container… but let’s be real, they’ll be gone in hours.

Can I skip the cinnamon?

You can, but then they’re just… donut holes. Cinnamon is the whole vibe.

Final Thoughts

These cinnamon-baked donut holes are proof that you don’t need fancy tools or deep-frying skills to make something ridiculously delicious. They’re quick, cozy, and just the right amount of indulgent.

Pro tip: Make a double batch. Future-you will be very grateful.

Now go ahead—bake a batch, grab a coffee, and enjoy your moment of sweet victory. You’ve earned it. 🍩✨

Cinnamon Baked Donut Holes Recipe

Soft, fluffy, and coated in sweet cinnamon sugar, these baked donut holes are a quick and healthier alternative to fried donuts. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert cravings. No deep frying needed—just simple ingredients and big flavor in every bite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 22 minutes mins

Servings: 20 donut holes

Course: Dessert / Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 90

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/3 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp melted butter for coating
• 1/3 cup sugar for coating
• 1 tsp cinnamon for coating

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin pan
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt
3. In another bowl, mix milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients and mix until just combined
5. Fill each mini muffin cavity 3/4 full with batter
6. Bake for 10–12 minutes until lightly golden
7. Let donut holes cool slightly before removing from the pan
8. Dip each donut hole in melted butter
9. Roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated
10. Serve warm and enjoy

Notes

Do not overmix the batter to keep the donut holes soft and fluffy
Use a mini muffin pan for perfect bite-sized shapes
Best served fresh for maximum flavor and texture
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
Reheat slightly before serving for the best taste

DID YOU MAKE THIS EASY RECIPE?

If you have, then share it with us by sending a photo. We’re excited to see what you’ve made:-):