The idea hit me on one of those afternoons where I wanted something sweet but didn’t want oil splatters or regret.

I could almost smell a bakery—warm dough, vanilla, a hint of sugar—except I was still in my slippers.

Air fryer donut holes felt like a gamble. Would they really feel like donuts? Or just… baked dough balls?

The first batch came out golden, slightly cracked, soft when pressed. Promising.

I rolled them in cinnamon sugar while they were still warm, hands a little sticky, smiling already.

The first bite sealed it. Light. Tender. Comforting.

No yeast. No rising drama. No fryer cleanup.

Just simple joy, made quickly, when you need it most.

Recipe Resume (Why You’ll Love These)

No yeast required.
Ready in minutes.
Soft, fluffy centers.
Golden outside, never greasy.
Perfect for kids and adults.
Uses basic pantry staples.
Easy to customize.
Dangerously snackable.

Why This Air Fryer Donut Holes Recipe Is The Only One You’ll Ever Need

Cuisine: American

My family now calls these “emergency donuts.” Birthdays, bad days, movie nights—they show up. I once made them while coffee was still brewing, and they disappeared before mugs were filled. They’re forgiving, cozy, and honestly? They make you feel clever for using the air fryer.

What You Really Need to Make This Amazing Air Fryer Donut Holes (Simplified)

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Sugar
Salt
Milk
Melted butter
Egg
Vanilla extract
Cinnamon & extra sugar (for coating)
Cooking spray

How to Master the Perfect Air Fryer Donut Holes (My Secret Method)

Mix your dry ingredients in one bowl—nothing fancy. In another, whisk the wet until smooth and cozy-looking. Bring them together gently. The dough should feel soft, not sticky.

Roll small balls with lightly oiled hands. Don’t overthink size—bite-sized joy is the goal.

Place them in a single layer, give them a light spray, and air fry until puffed and golden.

While warm, roll them generously in cinnamon sugar. This is the magic moment. Don’t rush it.

Chef’s Notes and Tips For A Flawless Air Fryer Donut Holes

Don’t overcrowd the basket. Air needs room to work its magic, or you’ll lose that golden exterior.

Also, coat while warm. Once they cool, the sugar won’t cling the same way—and that matters more than you think.

Get Creative! Easy Substitutions and Fun Variations

Add nutmeg for a classic donut shop vibe. Toss in mini chocolate chips for a surprise center.

Skip sugar and glaze with vanilla icing or maple drizzle instead—perfect for brunch plates.

Lighten It Up! Simple Swaps for a Healthier Air Fryer Donut Holes

Use almond milk and reduce sugar slightly for a lighter version.

For gluten-free donut holes in the air fryer, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend—results stay tender and satisfying.

Closing

And there you have it—warm, fluffy donut holes made with almost no effort.
Make them once, and suddenly your air fryer feels like a bakery. Let me know how yours turn out, and don’t forget to peek at our other cozy recipes!

Are You Curious About Anything Else? Take a Look at the Most Frequently Asked Questions We Get About This Recipe:

1. Are air fryer donut holes really healthier than fried ones?
Yes—significantly. A healthy donut holes in air fryer recipe uses little to no oil, cutting fat while keeping texture satisfying.

You still get that comforting donut feel without the heaviness that deep frying brings.

2. Do air fryer donut holes taste like real donuts?
They do—especially when warm. While they’re slightly lighter, the flavor and softness hit the same nostalgic notes.

Most people can’t tell unless you point it out.

3. Can I make air fryer donut holes without yeast?
Absolutely. This air fryer donut holes without yeast recipe relies on baking powder for lift.

That’s why it’s fast, simple, and beginner-friendly.

4. How do I keep donut holes soft inside?
Avoid overmixing the dough and overcooking in the air fryer.

Soft centers come from gentle handling and pulling them out right when golden.

5. Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
You can mix it a few hours ahead and refrigerate, but fresh is best.

The baking powder activates quickly, so timing matters.

6. Why are my donut holes dry?
Too much flour or extra cook time usually causes dryness.

Measure carefully and check early—air fryers vary.

7. Can I freeze air fryer donut holes?
Yes. Freeze plain donut holes, then reheat and coat when ready.

They won’t be fresh-fresh, but they’re still lovely.

8. What’s the best topping for air fryer donut holes?
Cinnamon sugar is classic, but vanilla glaze or powdered sugar works beautifully.

The beauty of easy air fryer donut holes is how customizable they are.