Diving right into the world of quick, crispy cinnamon sugar donut bites might just change how you think about homemade treats. These bite-sized delights are packed with the nostalgic flavor of a classic sugar donut, while being incredibly easy to prepare, even for beginners. Whether you crave a speedy dessert, a fun family snack, or simply love the comforting aroma of sweet cinnamon, you’re about to find your new favorite recipe.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
If you have ever wondered whether a sugar donut could get any better, let me tell you—these cinnamon sugar donut bites will surprise you in the best way. Not only are they perfectly crisp on the outside and deliciously soft in the center, but they’re also made with simple pantry staples, which makes them super affordable. You don’t need a fancy donut pan or deep fryer; a simple pot and a scoop will work.
Moreover, using cinnamon and sugar together guarantees a comforting flavor pairing with each bite. Their portable size makes them ideal for sharing, and because this recipe uses no yeast, there’s no waiting for dough to rise. You can start these now and enjoy them in under half an hour.
Ingredients
Before you start, gather these basic ingredients for the sugar donut dough and the irresistible cinnamon sugar coating:
- 1¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (plus extra for coating)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1½ tsp vanilla extract
- For coating: ½ cup granulated sugar + 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Oil, for frying (vegetable or canola recommended)
How to Make Sugar Donut Bites: Step-by-Step
Preparing the Dough
Begin by whisking together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, and cinnamon. Having all dry ingredients combined means your sugar donut bites will be well-balanced and fluffy.
Next, mix the wet ingredients—milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla—in a separate bowl. Pour these into the dry flour mixture. Gently fold everything together just until you have a sticky dough. Overmixing? Please don’t—otherwise, the donut bites may turn tough.
Shaping and Cooking Donuts
Now, heat your oil over medium heat until a thermometer registers 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small bit of dough in—the oil should bubble and rise quickly, but not turn dark too fast.
Using a small ice cream scoop or two spoons, drop little balls of dough (about 1 to 2 tablespoons each) into the oil. Fry 5–6 at a time, turning occasionally, until golden brown all over (about 2–3 minutes per batch). Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
While the donut bites are still warm, toss them in your cinnamon sugar mix to coat generously. This is when that classic sugar donut flavor really shines!
Expert Tips
- Always use fresh baking powder and soda for fluffier donut bites
- Make sure your oil is hot enough, or the sugar donuts will absorb too much oil and turn greasy
- Only coat the donut bites while warm to ensure the cinnamon sugar adheres well
Recipe Variations
There are endless ways to play with your sugar donut flavors:
- Add nutmeg for extra warmth in the dough
- Swap vanilla for almond extract for a fun twist
- Make chocolate sugar donuts by adding 1 tablespoon cocoa powder to the flour
- For a citrusy touch, try adding orange or lemon zest to the dough
- If you like a hint of spice, mix a pinch of cayenne into your cinnamon sugar
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftover sugar donut bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to refresh their crispiness, place them in a 350°F oven for 3–4 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make them chewy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your crispy bites with a side of hot chocolate, coffee, or even a caramel or chocolate dip for dunking. For parties, pile them high on a platter and sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar just before serving.
They also make a wonderful surprise in lunchboxes or for brunch with fresh fruit. If you’re feeling extra fancy, drizzle with a simple glaze or melted chocolate.
Crispy Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites to Try Now
Description
Diving right into the world of quick, crispy cinnamon sugar donut bites might just change how you think about homemade treats. These bite-sized delights are packed with the nostalgic flavor of a classic sugar donut, while being incredibly easy to prepare, even for beginners. Whether you crave a speedy dessert, a fun family snack, or simply love the comforting aroma of sweet cinnamon, you’re about to find your new favorite recipe.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step-by-Step
Preparing the Dough
Begin by whisking together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, sugar, and cinnamon. Having all dry ingredients combined means your sugar donut bites will be well-balanced and fluffy.
Next, mix the wet ingredients—milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla—in a separate bowl. Pour these into the dry flour mixture. Gently fold everything together just until you have a sticky dough. Overmixing? Please don’t—otherwise, the donut bites may turn tough.
Shaping and Cooking Donuts
Now, heat your oil over medium heat until a thermometer registers 350°F (175°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small bit of dough in—the oil should bubble and rise quickly, but not turn dark too fast.
Using a small ice cream scoop or two spoons, drop little balls of dough (about 1 to 2 tablespoons each) into the oil. Fry 5–6 at a time, turning occasionally, until golden brown all over (about 2–3 minutes per batch). Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
While the donut bites are still warm, toss them in your cinnamon sugar mix to coat generously. This is when that classic sugar donut flavor really shines!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 20
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 60kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 2g4%
- Saturated Fat 0.5g3%
- Cholesterol 11mg4%
- Total Carbohydrate 10g4%
- Dietary Fiber 0.2g1%
- Sugars 3.2g
- Protein 1g2%
- Vitamin A 15 mcg
- Calcium 8 mg
- Iron 0.4 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Because these are fried, enjoy them while fresh—there’s truly nothing like the first bite of a sugar donut right out of the oil. If you’re making these for kids, be mindful of the oil temperature and never leave hot oil unattended.
