If you’re a fan of donuts but don’t want to go through the hassle of deep-frying them, you’re in luck. The world’s easiest baked donut hole recipe is here, and it’s a game-changer. This recipe is perfect for those who want to indulge in a sweet treat without the added guilt of consuming fried food.
These baked cinnamon donut holes are not only easy to make, but they’re also healthier than their fried counterparts. They’re made with canned dough and coated in a cinnamon and sugar mixture, resulting in a deliciously sweet and fluffy treat. Plus, since they’re baked, you won’t have to deal with the mess and hassle of frying them in oil.
Ingredients
- 1 can refrigerator biscuits any amount of biscuits is fine.
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 Tablespoon cinnamon
- 4 Tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven 350
- Grease a shallow baking pan (I used a glass pie pan) with butter or cooking spray
- Melt butter (microwave in 30 second increments or melt on stovetop), put in small bowl
- Mix together sugar and cinnamon, put in small bowl
- Open package of biscuits and separate individual biscuits
- With knife, cut each biscuit into 4 pieces
- Take each small piece and roll into a ball
- Take each ball and dip in melted butter, covering ball
- Next, roll butter-covered ball into sugar mixture
- Place cinnamon-sugar covered ball into baking dish
- Repeat until all biscuit pieces are covered and in baking dish
- Donuts can be touching when in the pan. Just keep moving them around until they all fit.
- Bake 18-20 minutes.
- Let cool 5-10 minutes before serving. These pull apart easily and are quickly devoured!
Servings: 8 people
Prep Time: 10minutes
Cook Time: 21minutes
Total Time: 31minutes
Notes
Depending on the biscuits you buy, you might prefer to follow the baking instructions on the package. i.e. 375 for 11-15 minutes. Just make sure the biscuits are cooked through. Pop them back in for a few minutes if they aren’t done enough.
Variations and Flavor Ideas
Take your baked donut holes to the next level by trying out different flavor combinations and toppings. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Classic Sugar Coating
For a classic and simple option, coat your donut holes in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. This is the same coating used in the original recipe and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. You can adjust the ratio of cinnamon to sugar to your liking, but a 1:3 ratio is a good place to start.
Chocolate Glaze
If you’re a chocolate lover, try adding a chocolate glaze to your donut holes. To make the glaze, melt some chocolate chips or baking chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Once melted, dip the tops of your donut holes into the chocolate and allow them to cool and harden on a wire rack.
Cinnamon Spice Twist
For a fun twist on the classic cinnamon sugar coating, add some extra spices to the mix. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or allspice to the cinnamon sugar mixture for a warm and cozy flavor. You can also experiment with other spices like cardamom or cloves for a more unique taste.
No matter which variation you choose, these baked donut holes are sure to be a hit. They’re easy to make, customizable, and delicious. So go ahead and get creative with your flavors and toppings – the possibilities are endless!
Serving and Presentation Suggestions
Now that you’ve baked the easiest donut holes ever, it’s time to serve them up and make them look as delicious as they taste. Here are a few presentation suggestions to take your donut holes to the next level:
1. Glaze
While these donut holes are delicious on their own, adding a glaze can take them to a whole new level. Try a simple glaze made with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and drizzle over the donut holes. You can also experiment with different flavors like chocolate or maple.
2. Toppings
Another way to add some pizzazz to your donut holes is by adding toppings. Roll them in cinnamon sugar, powdered sugar, or sprinkles. You can also try more unique toppings like crushed nuts or coconut flakes.
3. Presentation
Presentation is everything, even with donut holes. Serve them up on a platter or in a basket lined with parchment paper. You can also use a tiered stand to add some height and visual interest. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your presentation to make your donut holes stand out.
4. Pairings
Donut holes are the perfect sweet treat to pair with your favorite beverage. Serve them up with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy morning treat. You can also serve them as a dessert with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
With these serving and presentation suggestions, your donut holes are sure to impress. Whether you’re serving them up for breakfast or dessert, they’re the perfect treat for any occasion.
Storage and Freshness Tips
Once the donut holes are baked, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months.
To freeze the donut holes, let them cool completely and then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to label the container or bag with the date so that you can keep track of how long they have been frozen.
When you are ready to eat the frozen donut holes, let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours. You can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or until they are heated through.
If you want to enjoy the donut holes warm and fresh, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. You can also microwave them for 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overheat them, as they can become tough and chewy.
To keep the donut holes fresh and moist, you can store them with a slice of bread or a damp paper towel. The bread or paper towel will help to absorb any excess moisture and prevent the donut holes from drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to create donut holes without a specialized pan?
You can easily create donut holes without a specialized pan by using a piping bag or a ziplock bag with the corner snipped off. Simply pipe the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between each dough ball to allow for expansion during baking.
Can you make donut holes using biscuit dough?
Yes, you can make donut holes using biscuit dough. Simply cut the dough into small pieces and shape them into balls. Then, bake them in the oven according to the recipe instructions.
What is the secret to getting a light and airy texture in baked donut holes?
The secret to getting a light and airy texture in baked donut holes is to not overwork the dough. Mix the ingredients until just combined, and avoid kneading the dough. Also, be sure to use fresh baking powder to ensure that the donut holes rise properly.
How can I make a glaze for baked donut holes?
To make a simple glaze for baked donut holes, mix powdered sugar with a small amount of milk or water until you reach your desired consistency. You can also add flavorings such as vanilla extract or cocoa powder to customize your glaze.
Is it possible to make yeast-based donut holes in the oven?
Yes, it is possible to make yeast-based donut holes in the oven. However, the texture and flavor will be different from traditional fried yeast donuts. You will need to follow a specific recipe designed for baked yeast donuts to ensure that they turn out properly.
What’s the difference in taste and texture between baked and fried donut holes?
Baked donut holes are generally lighter and less greasy than fried donut holes. They also have a slightly different texture – baked donut holes are more cake-like, while fried donut holes are more dense and chewy. However, both types of donut holes can be delicious, and the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference.
