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Crispy Apple Cider Donut Holes Air Fryer Recipe Easy Homemade Treats

apple cider donut holes - featured image

These crispy apple cider donut holes are made in the air fryer for a quick, easy, and healthier fall treat with a tender spiced center and a sweet maple glaze.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 3/4 cup (180ml) apple cider
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the Maple Glaze:
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon milk (dairy or dairy-free)
  • Pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C), about 3-5 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and granulated sugar until combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg with apple cider, melted butter (cooled), and vanilla extract.
  4. Gradually add wet ingredients to dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Batter will be thick but scoopable.
  5. Shape batter into 1 to 1.5-inch balls using a teaspoon or small cookie scoop. Use flour or wet hands to prevent sticking.
  6. Lightly spray air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place donut holes in a single layer with space between.
  7. Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, shaking basket halfway through for even browning. Donut holes should be golden and springy.
  8. While cooking, whisk powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, and cinnamon in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust thickness as needed.
  9. Let donut holes cool on a rack for 5 minutes, then drizzle or dip in maple glaze. Serve warm.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed. Shake the basket halfway through cooking for even browning. If batter is too wet, add flour a tablespoon at a time; if too dry, add a splash more cider. Let donut holes cool slightly before glazing to prevent glaze from melting off. For gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Vegan adaptations include flax egg and plant-based butter and milk.

Nutrition

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