Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Sugar Churro Donut Holes
If you love churros and donuts, get ready for a treat that combines the best of both worlds! Cinnamon Sugar Churro Donut Holes offer that irresistibly crisp and sugary exterior from churros, paired with the soft, fluffy interior of a donut. Whether you decide to fry or bake them, they are the perfect bite-sized snack, ideal for dipping or just savoring on their own.
These donut holes are incredibly easy to make, coming together in under 30 minutes! If you’re looking to impress your guests or treat yourself to something sweet, these little bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Cinnamon Sugar Churro Donut Holes (Makes about 20–24 donut holes)
For the Donut Holes:
- 1 cup (130 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup (120 ml) milk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing or dipping if baking)
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cinnamon Sugar Churro Donut Holes
Fried Version (Crispy on the Outside, Soft on the Inside)
- Heat the Oil
Start by pouring about 1½–2 inches of oil into a deep pot or pan. Heat it to 350°F (175°C). For best results, use a thermometer to keep the temperature accurate, ensuring that the oil is hot enough to fry without being too hot. - Mix the Batter
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. In another bowl, whisk the wet ingredients: milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Combine both the wet and dry ingredients, stirring gently until the batter is smooth. Be careful not to overmix — a few lumps are perfectly fine! - Fry the Donut Holes
Carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil. Use a small cookie scoop or a spoon to form the batter into bite-sized portions. Fry the donut holes for about 2 minutes per side until they are golden brown and puffed up. Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry them in batches if necessary. - Drain and Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the donut holes and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. While the donut holes are still warm, toss them in a shallow bowl filled with cinnamon and sugar to coat evenly.
Baked Version (A Lighter, Healthier Option)
If you prefer a baked version of Cinnamon Sugar Churro Donut Holes, the process is just as easy!
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a mini muffin pan to prevent sticking.
- Spoon the donut batter into each muffin cup, filling them about ¾ full.
- Bake the donut holes for 10–12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and springy to the touch.
- Once done, remove them from the oven and brush with melted butter. Roll them in cinnamon sugar to get that signature crunchy coating.
Optional Dipping Sauces to Elevate Your Donut Holes
While Cinnamon Sugar Churro Donut Holes are delicious on their own, you can elevate the experience with these indulgent dipping sauces:
- Chocolate Ganache: Melt ½ cup of chocolate chips with ¼ cup of cream for a rich, velvety dip.
- Caramel Sauce: Use store-bought or homemade caramel for a sweet, buttery addition.
- Vanilla Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to create a smooth, slightly sweet glaze.
How to Store Cinnamon Sugar Churro Donut Holes
For the best flavor, Cinnamon Sugar Churro Donut Holes are best enjoyed fresh and warm. However, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To bring back their crispy texture, reheat them in the oven or air fryer for a few minutes.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Churro Donut Holes
- Add a Pinch of Nutmeg or Orange Zest: For a unique twist on the traditional flavor, consider adding a small pinch of nutmeg or orange zest to the batter.
- Dulce de Leche Filling: If you want to take these donut holes to the next level, fill them with dulce de leche using a piping bag for a sweet surprise in every bite.
- Air Fryer Version: If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can make these donut holes in an air fryer! While the texture won’t be as crisp as fried, they’ll still have a great crunch and satisfy your craving for something sweet.
FAQs About The Recipe
1. Can I make these donut holes in advance?
While Cinnamon Sugar Churro Donut Holes are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to fry or bake them, just shape and cook them as directed.
2. Can I use whole wheat flour?
You can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it may result in a denser texture. For the best results, use all-purpose flour.
3. Can I freeze the donut holes?
Yes, you can freeze the donut holes! Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer before serving.
4. What kind of oil should I use for frying?
For frying Cinnamon Sugar Churro Donut Holes, it’s best to use neutral oils like vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil. These oils have a high smoke point and won’t affect the flavor of the donut holes.
5. Can I make these without eggs?
Yes, you can make an eggless version of Cinnamon Sugar Churro Donut Holes. Substitute the egg with ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water).
Conclusion
Whether you choose to fry or bake them, Cinnamon Sugar Churro Donut Holes are a delicious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their crispy, sugary exterior and soft, fluffy interior, they are guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen. Add in some optional dipping sauces or creative fillings to elevate the experience even further, and you’ve got a dessert that everyone will love.
So next time you’re craving something sweet, whip up a batch of these irresistible donut holes. They come together quickly, and you can enjoy them hot, fresh, and covered in cinnamon sugar. Don’t forget to share them — though, once you taste them, you might not want to!
Cinnamon Sugar Churro Donut Holes: A Deliciously Sweet Twist on a Classic Favorite
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 donut holes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
If you love churros and donuts, get ready for a treat that combines the best of both worlds! Cinnamon Sugar Churro Donut Holes offer that irresistibly crisp and sugary exterior from churros, paired with the soft, fluffy interior of a donut. Whether you decide to fry or bake them, they are the perfect bite-sized snack, ideal for dipping or just savoring on their own.
Ingredients
For the Donut Holes
1 cup (130 g) all-purpose flour
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 ½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
½ tsp ground cinnamon
½ cup (120 ml) milk
1 large egg
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
½ tsp vanilla extract
Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
2 tbsp melted butter (for brushing or dipping if baking)
Instructions
Heat the Oil
Pour oil into a deep pot or pan to about 1½–2 inches deep.
Heat to 350°F (175°C) — use a thermometer for best results.
Mix the Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
In another bowl, whisk milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla.
Combine wet and dry ingredients just until smooth (don’t overmix).
Fry the Donut Holes
Drop tablespoonfuls of batter carefully into the hot oil (use a small cookie scoop or spoon).
Fry about 2 minutes per side, until golden brown and puffed.
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
Mix sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
While still warm, toss donut holes in the mixture to coat evenly.
Notes
These bite-sized churro donut holes are perfect for parties, brunches, or a sweet snack anytime! Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and coated in cinnamon sugar, they’re even better when served warm with chocolate or caramel dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert / Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 donut holes
- Calories: 180
Keywords: Cinnamon Sugar Churro Donut Holes
