Forget the drive-thru! Imagine creating warm, soft, and utterly delicious **Air Fryer Chocolate Donut Holes** right in your own kitchen. This simple **20-minute recipe** delivers all the rich flavor and tender, cake-like texture of your favorite bakery donuts, without the hassle of deep-frying. It’s the ultimate treat that will have your kids — and you — asking for more!
- Pin this recipe for later!
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Chocolate Donut Holes
These aren’t just any donut holes; they’re irresistibly soft, rich, and bursting with chocolate flavor, all finished with a perfectly sweet, simple glaze. This recipe creates a treat remarkably similar to Dunkin’ Donuts’ highly sought-after chocolate munchkins, a personal favorite for a quick pick-me-up alongside a warm cup of coffee. The sheer convenience of preparing these in an Air Fryer truly sets this recipe apart from traditional deep-frying methods.
Say goodbye to the messy, oil-laden process of deep-frying donuts! Using an Air Fryer dramatically simplifies cleanup and reduces the amount of oil needed, making this a healthier and much more enjoyable cooking experience. I’ve found that using a silicone mold helps the donut dough maintain its perfectly round shape as it cooks, resulting in consistently beautiful and evenly baked treats every time. These homemade chocolate donut holes are not only incredibly easy to make but also serve as the best breakfast treat or delightful snack, constantly delighting everyone who tries them. It’s a quick win for busy mornings or an unexpected indulgence anytime you crave something sweet.
Master the Perfect Round Shape: A Simple Tip!
Achieving those perfectly round, uniform donut holes is simpler than you might think. My secret weapon is a silicone half-sphere mold, which gently cradles the dough as it bakes in the Air Fryer, ensuring each donut hole is beautifully spherical. While you can certainly scoop the dough directly into the Air Fryer basket using a cookie or ice cream scoop, be aware that without a mold, the bottoms might flatten slightly, and the dough could spread a bit during cooking. For that classic, professional-looking “munchkin” shape, the silicone mold is a game-changer!
Air Fryer Chocolate Donut Holes Recipe
: 20 minutes
Print
Rate Save Saved!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder *
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 4 tablespoons salted butter melted (½ stick)**
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream divided
- ¼ cup chocolate chips
- ½ cup powdered sugar
Equipment
- Kitchen Scale (optional, for precise measurements)
- Air Fryer (any model will work!)
- Silicone Half-Sphere Mold (highly recommended for perfectly round donut holes)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, rich unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and baking powder. Stir these dry ingredients thoroughly until they are well combined and uniform.1 cup all-purpose flour, ⅔ cup unsweetened cocoa powder, ½ cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Introduce the pure vanilla extract, melted salted butter, and ⅔ cup of heavy whipping cream to the dry mixture. Whisk gently but consistently until you achieve a smooth, lump-free batter.1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, 4 tablespoons salted butter, 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- Carefully fold in the chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the rich chocolate batter. This adds an extra layer of chocolatey goodness to every bite.¼ cup chocolate chips
- Spoon the prepared batter into your silicone half-sphere mold, filling each cavity approximately ¾ of the way. Place the mold into your Air Fryer basket, preheat to 350°F (175°C), and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the donut holes are firm and cooked through.
- While the donut holes are air-frying, it’s the perfect time to whip up the irresistible glaze. In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of powdered sugar with the remaining ⅓ cup of heavy whipping cream. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and forms a pourable, yet thick, glaze consistency.½ cup powdered sugar
- Once cooked, carefully remove the donut holes from the Air Fryer and let them cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes. Gently remove them from the mold (if using), then generously toss them in the prepared glaze. Place them back on the wire cooling rack, allowing any excess glaze to drip off. Let the glaze set for another 5 minutes before serving these delightful homemade treats.
Notes
**For the butter, using salted butter enhances the flavor balance beautifully. If you opt for unsalted butter, simply add an extra ¼ teaspoon of kosher salt to the dry ingredients for the best taste.
Tips for Success:
- The dough for these homemade donut holes is designed to be notably thick and easily scoopable. This consistency is key to preventing it from spreading or melting too much in the Air Fryer, ensuring perfectly shaped donut holes.
- While the silicone molds are excellent for shaping, I find that using a small cookie scoop to mound the dough into the molds further aids in achieving the most uniform and perfectly round shape.
- I did test this recipe without a mold, and it still produced tasty donut holes. However, they did tend to lose their ideal spherical shape, often ending up with flat bottoms. For visual appeal, the mold is recommended.
- If you anticipate having leftovers, it’s best to wait to glaze the donut holes until just before you’re ready to serve them. This keeps the glaze from becoming too absorbed or sticky.
Alternative Cooking Methods:
Traditional Deep Frying Instructions: For a classic donut experience, heat canola or vegetable oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to about 350-375°F (175-190°C). Carefully drop small balls of dough into the hot oil. Deep fry for approximately 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove them from the oil, and place them on paper towels to drain off any excess oil before glazing. This method results in a crispier exterior.
Oven Baking Instructions: If you don’t have an Air Fryer, you can bake these donut holes in a conventional oven. Place small balls of dough on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake them in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for around 15 minutes, or until they are firm to the touch and lightly golden. Allow them to cool slightly on a wire rack before applying the glaze. This method yields a softer, more cake-like texture.
Storage: To maintain their freshness and deliciousness, store leftover chocolate donut holes in an airtight container. They will keep well at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Calories from Fat 108
@easydessertrecipes
for a chance to be featured.
Step-by-Step Guide to Air Frying Your Chocolate Donut Holes
Creating these delightful Air Fryer chocolate donut holes is a straightforward and rewarding process. Follow these detailed steps to ensure perfectly cooked, glazed treats every time.
Step 1: Preparation is Key! Before you begin mixing, gather all your ingredients from the list. It’s always helpful to have everything measured and ready to go. Ensure your heavy cream is at room temperature, and gently melt the butter. Having your ingredients prepared in advance ensures a smooth and efficient baking process.
Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients Together. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, ⅔ cup of unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-process for a richer flavor), ½ cup of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Use a whisk to thoroughly blend these dry components until they are uniformly combined. This step ensures an even distribution of leavening agents and flavor throughout your donut batter.
Step 3: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients. Now, it’s time to add the liquid elements to your dry mixture. Pour in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract, 4 tablespoons of melted salted butter, and ⅔ cup of heavy whipping cream. Whisk these ingredients gently until the batter becomes smooth and free of lumps. Be careful not to overmix; just enough to combine. Following this, carefully fold in ¼ cup of your favorite chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed to infuse every bite with delightful chocolate bursts.
Step 4: Air Fry to Perfection. Take your prepared chocolate donut batter and generously scoop it into a silicone half-sphere mold, filling each well about ¾ of the way. This mold is instrumental in achieving perfectly round donut holes. Carefully place the filled mold into the basket of your Air Fryer. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and cook for exactly 10 minutes. The donut holes should be firm and cooked through. If you don’t have a mold, you can scoop the dough and roll it into small balls between your palms. Then, arrange them directly in the Air Fryer basket, ideally lined with a piece of parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Prepare the Silky Glaze. While your donut holes are happily cooking in the Air Fryer, use this time to create the luscious glaze. In a separate small bowl, combine ½ cup of powdered sugar with the remaining ⅓ cup of heavy whipping cream. Whisk until the mixture is completely smooth, creating a glossy, pourable glaze. This glaze will add that classic sweetness and shine to your homemade treats.
Step 6: Glaze and Serve! Once the donut holes are done cooking, carefully remove them from the Air Fryer and let them cool on a wire rack for a brief 5 minutes. This cooling period is crucial. After cooling, gently remove the donut holes from the silicone mold (if used). Now, it’s time for the fun part: toss them generously in the freshly prepared glaze, ensuring each one is beautifully coated. Place them back on the wire cooling rack, allowing any excess glaze to drip off. Let the glaze set for another 5 minutes before eagerly serving these wonderfully warm and delicious **Air Fryer Chocolate Donut Holes** to your family and friends. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about making Air Fryer Chocolate Donut Holes to help you perfect this delightful recipe.
Q1: Can I prepare the donut dough in advance?
Yes, you can! You can mix the dough and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, let it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before scooping into the molds and air frying. This can be a great time-saver for busy mornings.
Q2: What type of Air Fryer works best for this recipe?
This recipe works wonderfully with almost any basket-style Air Fryer. The cooking times may vary slightly depending on your specific model and its wattage, so it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on your donut holes during the first batch. Oven-style Air Fryers can also be used, but you might need to adjust the cooking rack position for optimal results.
Q3: Can I make these Air Fryer donut holes gluten-free or dairy-free?
While the recipe hasn’t been specifically tested for gluten-free or dairy-free alternatives, many readers have had success with simple substitutions. For gluten-free, try using a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. For dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream (chilled) or a high-fat plant-based milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative. Results may vary slightly in texture and flavor.
Q4: How do I ensure my donut holes are extra fluffy?
For maximum fluffiness, ensure your baking powder is fresh, as it’s crucial for the leavening process. Also, avoid overmixing the batter; mix only until the ingredients are just combined. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour too much, leading to a tougher texture. The thick, scoopable consistency of this dough naturally contributes to a soft, cakey interior.
Q5: Can I experiment with other flavors or toppings?
Absolutely! This recipe is a fantastic base for creativity. Instead of a simple glaze, you could try a chocolate ganache, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a cinnamon-sugar coating (especially if omitting the chocolate chips from the dough). You could also add different extracts to the glaze, like almond or peppermint, for unique flavor profiles. Sprinkles, chopped nuts, or even a drizzle of caramel can take these donut holes to the next level!
Perfect Pairings & Serving Suggestions
These homemade Air Fryer Chocolate Donut Holes are delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages and additions to elevate your indulgence. Serve them warm straight from the Air Fryer for the best experience.
- Coffee or Tea: A classic pairing! The rich chocolate and sweet glaze perfectly complement a morning coffee, a latte, or your favorite herbal tea.
- Cold Milk: For the kids (and adults!), a tall glass of cold milk is the ideal accompaniment to these chocolatey treats.
- Ice Cream: Turn them into a decadent dessert by serving warm donut holes alongside a scoop of vanilla bean or coffee ice cream. A drizzle of chocolate syrup makes it extra special.
- Extra Toppings: Feel free to customize! Before the glaze sets, sprinkle with colorful sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or finely chopped nuts for added texture and visual appeal.
- Fruit Salad: For a balanced breakfast or brunch spread, serve these donut holes alongside a fresh fruit salad to add a touch of freshness.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Proper storage is essential to keep your homemade chocolate donut holes fresh and enjoyable for longer. Here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Room Temperature: Store any leftover donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. While they are best enjoyed fresh, they will retain their soft texture during this period.
- Refrigerator: For extended freshness, you can store the donut holes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This is particularly useful if you’ve made a larger batch.
- Freezing: If you want to store them for even longer, freeze unglazed donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. Glazed donut holes can also be frozen, but the glaze might become slightly sticky upon thawing.
- Reheating: To bring them back to their warm, soft glory, reheat chilled or room-temperature donut holes in your Air Fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes. If reheating from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time until they are warmed through. This method helps to restore their delightful texture without drying them out.
More Delectable Donut Recipes to Explore!
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
Boston Cream Donuts
Baked Vanilla Donuts
Chocolate Crullers
Browse All Donut Recipes