Name: Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 can Refrigerator Biscuits (For the base of the donut holes.); 1/4 cup Sugar (For coating the donut holes.); 1 tablespoon Cinnamon (For coating the donut holes.); 4 tablespoons Butter (Melted, for dipping.); 1 inch Oil (For frying.)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a fun and effortless treat that wins hearts in seconds, these Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes are your new kitchen best friend. Imagine crisp, golden-brown bites dusted in sweet cinnamon sugar—sweet little puffs of happiness! These nostalgic crowd-pleasers are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or anytime snacking. Did you know that donut holes actually began as “leftover” dough from the center of regular donuts? Over time, they’ve become a beloved treat in their own right! This version takes a shortcut with refrigerator biscuits, making the process unbelievably simple and quick, even on the busiest days. If you’ve tried my fluffy Glazed Mini Donuts before, you already know how easy it is to whip up bakery-fresh treats at home. So, gather your loved ones and let’s turn your kitchen into a donut shop worthy of happy memories. You’ll be amazed at how quickly these vanish!

What is Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes?

Have you ever wondered why “donut holes” have such an odd name? I mean, are they the hole or the whole donut? The answer, deliciously enough, is both—these tiny, sugary circles have earned a place in snack heaven! Legend has it that donut makers used to pop out the center to make donuts cook more evenly, and presto—leftover dough became the star of the show. If the way to a man’s (or anyone’s!) heart is through their stomach, then Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes are guaranteed to do the trick. So why not roll up your sleeves, toss these in sugar, and treat your family today?

Why You’ll Love This

First, these bite-sized donuts are irresistibly soft on the inside with a golden crunch on the outside—the classic comfort food that never fails to put a smile on everyone’s face. Making them at home comes with a sweet bonus: they’re far more affordable than bakery or coffee shop versions, allowing you to indulge without breaking the bank. The magic happens when you toss each warm donut hole in a dusting of cinnamon sugar, creating a fragrant, melt-in-your-mouth coating that feels like pure nostalgia. If you love my recipe for Homemade Cinnamon Rolls, you’ll definitely appreciate the simplicity and speed of these donut holes. Ready for a kitchen adventure? Give these a try and see how fast they disappear!

How to Make

Quick Overview

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes are the easiest way to bring bakery-style treats to your table in less than 20 minutes! All you need are a few pantry staples—no yeast, no fuss, just simple ingredients and fast results. They deliver a delightful texture contrast: light and fluffy inside, crispy and sugary outside, with a scent that fills your home with cozy sweetness. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, this recipe’s clear steps mean foolproof results every single time.

A bowl of golden cinnamon sugar donut holes glistening with butter and coated in cinnamon sugar.

Ingredients

1 can refrigerator biscuits
1/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon
4 tablespoons butter

Step-by-Step

Open the can of refrigerator biscuits and separate each biscuit. Using a knife or kitchen scissors, cut each biscuit into quarters to create bite-sized pieces.
Roll each piece gently between your palms to form small balls. Don’t worry if they’re not perfectly round—they’ll taste amazing either way!
In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, set it aside in a shallow bowl.
In another small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon.
In a separate skillet or deep pan, heat about 1 inch of oil over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). If you drop a test piece of dough in and it sizzles immediately, your oil is ready.
Working in batches, gently add the biscuit dough balls to the hot oil. Fry for about 1-2 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and cooked through.
Remove the donut holes from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them briefly on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
While still warm, dip each donut hole in melted butter, then toss generously in the cinnamon sugar mix until fully coated.
Serve warm, and enjoy the irresistible taste!

What to Serve Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes With

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes are perfect on their own, but they also pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, creamy hot cocoa, or a cozy chai latte. For brunch gatherings, serve them alongside fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, or a breakfast casserole to balance the sweetness. For a special dessert platter, try dipping them in a chocolate or caramel sauce, or enjoy with a side of homemade whipped cream for extra indulgence!

Top Tips for Perfecting

For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice to your cinnamon sugar mix. If you’re low on butter, swap for coconut oil or even vegan butter for a dairy-free twist. Be sure not to overcrowd the pan while frying—this keeps the oil temperature steady and ensures crispy, evenly cooked donut holes. Watch the heat: too hot, and they’ll brown too fast; too cool, and they’ll be greasy instead of fluffy. Don’t skip the post-fry paper towel step—it keeps the coating crisp and prevents sogginess. If you’re feeling creative, add a splash of vanilla extract to the melted butter for aromatic depth!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Once cooled, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, simply pop them in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore that just-made warmth. If you plan to keep them longer, freeze them—just arrange cooled donut holes on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature and warm up as you like. For best texture, coat with fresh cinnamon sugar after reheating if needed.

FAQs

How do I know if the oil is hot enough for frying?
Drop a small piece of dough in the oil—it should sizzle and float to the top quickly. Too slow, it’s not hot enough; too fast, reduce the heat slightly.

Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Place rolled dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with melted butter, and bake at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, or until golden. Toss in cinnamon sugar while warm.

What if I don’t have refrigerator biscuits?
You can use canned crescent rolls or homemade biscuit dough if preferred. Just adjust frying time as needed for different dough types.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare and fry the donut holes, then cool and store. Reheat and toss in cinnamon sugar just before serving for best taste and texture.

Are these donut holes kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids love to help roll, dip, and toss the donut holes in cinnamon sugar. Just supervise closely around hot oil and melted butter.

Conclusion

There’s something magical about simple sweets made at home, and these Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes truly deliver on flavor, fun, and ease. Perfect for any occasion—from family breakfasts to holiday parties—they’re quick enough for a weekday treat and special enough to brighten any gathering. With their golden exterior, soft middle, and signature cinnamon sugar coat, you’ll be reaching for “just one more” every time. Be sure to try this recipe out, share it with friends, and explore more delicious ideas on the blog. Happy cooking and even happier snacking!