First Step: Prepare Dry Ingredients In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together 1½ to 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon salt, optional ½ teaspoon nutmeg, ½ to 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1 to 1 tablespoon baking powder, and optional ¼ teaspoon baking soda. This dry mixture forms the base for your donut holes, ensuring even flavor and proper leavening.

Second Step: Mix Wet Ingredients In a separate bowl, combine your wet ingredients: ½ to 1 cup whole milk or buttermilk (or the 50/50 water and heavy cream substitute), 1 large egg, ⅓ to ¼ cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons (or ¼ cup) melted butter, and if using, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. This mixture adds moisture, richness, and sweetness to the batter.

Third Step: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mix without over-mixing. The batter should remain slightly sticky and not too smooth this texture is key to achieving light and fluffy cinnamon sugar donut holes. Resist the urge to add extra flour, as this will make the dough dense.

Fourth Step: Heat the Frying Oil Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot to a depth of about 2 to 3 inches. Heat the oil to between 350°F and 375°F (176°C to 190°C). Using a cooking thermometer is highly recommended for consistent results and to prevent greasy donut holes. For tips on managing oil temperature, see these tips for maintaining oil temperature when frying.

Fifth Step: Fry Your Donut Holes Using a greased cookie scoop or two spoons, drop approximately 2 teaspoons of the sticky batter into the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding by frying 5 to 7 donut holes at a time to maintain oil temperature and allow even cooking. Fry each side for 1 to 3 minutes until they turn a golden brown and are cooked through.

Sixth Step: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar Once cooked, remove donut holes with a slotted spoon and immediately toss them in a bowl filled with a cinnamon sugar mixture (½ cup sugar mixed with 2 teaspoons cinnamon). Coating while warm helps the sugar stick perfectly, giving each bite that signature crisp and sweet layer.

Seventh Step: Drain and Serve Transfer the coated donut holes to a plate lined with paper towels to briefly drain any excess oil. Serve warm for the best crispy outside and fluffy inside experience. These cinnamon sugar donut holes make delicious snacks or sweet breakfasts.