Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes | Simple & Festive Treats

There’s something magical about the smell of cinnamon and sugar filling the kitchen on a cold December morning. These Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes bring that magic to life warm, golden, and ready in under 25 minutes. No oil splatter, no waiting for dough to rise just sweet, fluffy bites of holiday joy.

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes

These donut holes taste like cozy Christmas mornings in bite-sized form. They’re crisp outside and soft inside, rolled in warm cinnamon-sugar that sparkles under the lights. Because they’re made in the air fryer, cleanup is quick, and you skip the deep-frying mess entirely. It’s the perfect treat for busy holiday mornings, dessert tables, or quick festive snacks.

Also, the red, green, and white sprinkles make them pop with holiday cheer perfect for gifting or sharing at parties.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into these little rounds of happiness:

• Flour gives the donut holes their structure.
• Sugar adds sweetness and helps the golden crust.
• Baking powder ensures a light, airy texture.
• Cinnamon brings warmth and that signature holiday flavor.
• Salt balances the sweetness.
• Milk and melted butter make the dough soft and tender.
• Egg and vanilla extract tie everything together with richness and aroma.
• Cinnamon-sugar coating delivers that irresistible crunch.
• Holiday sprinkles give every bite a festive finish.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes

Step 1 – Prepare Your Air Fryer

Preheat to 350°F for even cooking and that perfect golden crust. A few minutes of preheating makes all the difference.

Step 2 – Mix the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl. This creates an even base for your dough.

Step 3 – Blend the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla until smooth. The mixture should look creamy and well blended.

Step 4 – Combine and Form the Dough

Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mix until a soft dough forms. Lightly flour your hands and roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Don’t overmix — a tender touch keeps the centers fluffy.

Step 5 – Air Fry to Golden Perfection

Place the dough balls in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. Cook for 7–8 minutes, shaking once midway. They should be firm and spring back when touched.

Step 6 – Coat and Decorate

While still warm, dip each donut hole in melted butter. Roll in cinnamon-sugar and top with red, green, and white sprinkles. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Expert Tips for Perfect Donut Holes

Always avoid overcrowding the air fryer air needs room to circulate. Lightly flour your hands when rolling the dough to prevent sticking. When done, the donut holes should feel firm and bounce back slightly when pressed.
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, but they taste best fresh and warm.

Equipment You’ll Need

You’ll need an air fryer, mixing bowls, whisk, measuring cups, and small tongs. A silicone liner or parchment insert helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Flavor Variations and Substitutions

Flavor Variations

Add a twist by drizzling chocolate glaze, swapping cinnamon for pumpkin spice, or mixing maple extract into the dough. You can even try adding pumpkin puree for a cozy seasonal flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Go dairy-free by using almond or oat milk, and replace the egg with mashed banana or unsweetened applesauce. Use gluten-free flour if you’re baking for dietary needs.

Serving Ideas for Holiday Gatherings

These donut holes shine on any dessert table. Serve them warm with hot cocoa, apple cider, or caramel sauce for dipping. For a snow-dusted look, sprinkle them with powdered sugar.
They’re perfect alongside treats like Easy Cherry Pie Bars for Holiday Dessert Tables or Festive Peppermint Bark Brownies for Christmas Treat Platters.
You can even bundle them up in gift boxes or arrange them next to Mini Sweet Potato Pies Perfect for Holiday Bites.

FAQs About Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes

More Such Recipes

• Maple Glazed Apple Blondies for Cozy Christmas Baking
• Chewy Pumpkin Cookies for Your Seasonal Dessert Spread
• Banana Pudding Cheesecake Bars for Rich and Creamy Holiday Indulgence
• Cherry Pie Cookie Cups as Bite-Sized Festive Favorites

Final Thoughts

These Air Fryer Christmas Donut Holes prove that homemade holiday treats don’t need to be complicated. With their sweet cinnamon aroma and festive sparkle, they turn any December day into a cozy celebration.
So grab your air fryer, warm up some cocoa, and enjoy a plate of joy straight from your kitchen. For more ideas and community inspiration, follow along on Pinterest or join the fun on Facebook.

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