Air Fryer Maple Glazed Donut Holes Easy Delight

Craving a sweet treat that’s both easy and delicious? You’re in for a treat! These Air Fryer Maple Glazed Donut Holes hit the spot without all the guilt. With simple ingredients and quick steps, you can whip up these fluffy bites in no time. Let’s dive into the world of donut magic, where crisp meets sweet and every bite is a delight!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and simple steps, making it perfect for a quick treat.
- Healthier Option: Using an air fryer instead of deep frying reduces the amount of oil, making these donut holes lighter and less greasy.
- Deliciously Sweet: The maple glaze adds a delightful sweetness that perfectly complements the warm, fluffy donut holes.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These donut holes are great for breakfast, snacks, or special celebrations, making them versatile and enjoyable for everyone.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Air Fryer Maple Glazed Donut Holes
To make Air Fryer Maple Glazed Donut Holes, you need these key ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1/2 tablespoon vinegar)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (for glaze)
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
These ingredients come together to create a soft and sweet treat bursting with flavor.
Substitute Options for Each Ingredient
If you don’t have an ingredient, here are some easy swaps:
- All-purpose flour can be replaced with gluten-free flour.
- Granulated sugar can be swapped with brown sugar for a richer taste.
- Baking powder can be replaced with baking soda, but use 1/2 teaspoon instead of 2 teaspoons.
- Ground cinnamon can be switched for nutmeg for a different spice profile.
- Buttermilk can be made by mixing regular milk with vinegar or lemon juice.
- If you lack eggs, use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce.
- For the glaze, you can mix honey instead of maple syrup for a unique flavor.
Tips for Choosing Quality Ingredients
Choosing quality ingredients makes a big difference. Here are some tips:
- Use fresh flour; check the expiration date.
- Select pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
- Choose real maple syrup, not pancake syrup, for a rich glaze.
- Look for eggs that are labeled as organic or free-range for better taste.
- Fresh buttermilk adds a nice tang, so check for freshness.
By picking the best ingredients, you set the stage for delicious donut holes!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating the Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This takes about 5 minutes. Preheating helps the donut holes cook evenly. It also gives them a nice golden color. Make sure you set a timer so you don’t forget!
Preparing the Dough: Mixing Dry & Wet Ingredients
Now, let’s make the dough. In a mixing bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Whisk them together until they blend well. In another bowl, mix your wet ingredients:
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1/2 tablespoon vinegar)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Stir these until smooth. Gradually add the wet mix to the dry mix. Stir gently until just combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps. Overmixing can make your donut holes tough.
Cooking the Donut Holes: Air Frying Tips
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop small balls of dough into the air fryer basket. Leave space between each one; they need room to puff up. Depending on your air fryer, you may need to work in batches. Air fry for 5 to 6 minutes. They should turn golden brown and feel firm to the touch.
While they cook, prepare your maple glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together:
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Once your donut holes are ready, dip them in the glaze right away. Make sure they are coated well. Then, place them on a wire rack to drain excess glaze. Let them sit for a few minutes to set the glaze. Enjoy your tasty treats!
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise and fluffiness in your donut holes.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to keep the donut holes light and airy.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on them while air frying, as cooking times can vary slightly based on your air fryer model.
- Glaze While Warm: Dip the donut holes in the glaze immediately after removing them from the air fryer for better adherence.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Texture of Donut Holes
To make the best donut holes, focus on mixing. Combine the dry and wet ingredients gently. Overmixing can make them tough. You want a soft dough with a few lumps. The air fryer cooks them quickly, so keep an eye on the time. Check them at 5 minutes. They should be golden brown. If they are too soft, they need more time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is not preheating the air fryer. Always preheat to 350°F (175°C) before cooking. Another mistake is overcrowding the basket. Leave space between each donut hole. This helps them cook evenly. Avoid using too much glaze. A light dip gives the best flavor without being too sweet.
Serving Suggestions for Best Enjoyment
Serve your donut holes warm for the best taste. They pair well with coffee or milk. For a fun twist, add extra toppings like sprinkles or crushed nuts. You can also drizzle extra maple syrup on top for added sweetness. Arrange them on a nice plate. This makes them look more inviting at any gathering.

Variations
Flavor Variations: Adding Spices or Extracts
You can change the taste by adding spices or extracts. Try adding nutmeg for a warm flavor. A dash of cardamom gives a unique twist. If you love vanilla, add more vanilla extract. You can even use almond extract for a different taste. Each option makes your donut holes special and fun.
Alternative Glazes for Different Taste Profiles
While maple glaze is delicious, you can explore other glazes too. For a chocolate glaze, melt chocolate chips with a bit of butter. A simple lemon glaze needs powdered sugar and lemon juice. You can also make a cinnamon sugar coating by mixing sugar and cinnamon. Experiment with these glazes to match your mood or taste.
Making Mini Donut Holes vs. Regular Size
Mini donut holes are a cute option and great for sharing. To make them, scoop smaller amounts of dough. Cook them for 3-4 minutes in the air fryer. Regular-sized donut holes are bigger and more filling. Both sizes taste great, so choose what you like!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Donut Holes
After enjoying your air fryer maple glazed donut holes, you might have some left. To keep them fresh, place them in an airtight container. Store them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week.
Best Ways to Reheat for Freshness
To bring back the warm, fluffy texture, reheat your donut holes in the air fryer. Set the air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and heat for about 3 minutes. This method keeps them soft and delicious. You can also use a microwave, but they might lose some crispiness. Heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
If you want to save your donut holes for later, freezing is a great option. Let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour, then move them to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.
FAQs
How long do air fryer donut holes last?
Air fryer donut holes last about 2 to 3 days when stored correctly. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, try freezing them. They stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer. Just thaw them in the fridge before you enjoy them again.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. This will change the texture a bit. Whole wheat flour makes donut holes denser and adds a nutty flavor. For a better result, mix half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour. This keeps them light while still being a bit healthier.
What can I do if I don’t have buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a simple substitute. Just mix 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. This will create a similar tangy flavor and texture. You can also use plain yogurt or sour cream thinned with a little milk.
You now have a clear guide to making air fryer maple glazed donut holes. We covered essential ingredients, helpful steps, and tips to perfect your recipe. Make sure to experiment with flavors and glazes for fun twists. Don’t forget storage tips to keep your donut holes fresh. Enjoy the process and share with friends or family. Happy cooking!

Air Fryer Maple Glazed Donut Holes
Ingredients
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1/2 tablespoon vinegar)
1 large egg
1 tablespoon melted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup maple syrup (for glaze)
1/4 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
Instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop small balls of dough into the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. (You may need to do this in batches.)
Air fry for 5-6 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. They should feel firm to the touch.
While the donut holes are cooking, prepare the maple glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup and powdered sugar until smooth.
Once the donut holes are done, remove them from the air fryer and immediately dip them in the maple glaze, ensuring they are coated evenly.
Place the glazed donut holes on a wire rack to let the excess glaze drip off. Allow them to sit for a couple of minutes to set the glaze.
Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 20 mins | 12 donut holes
– Presentation Tips: Arrange the donut holes on a decorative plate and drizzle some extra maple syrup on top or sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon for an added touch.

Air Fryer Maple Glazed Donut Holes
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1/2 tablespoon vinegar)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.25 cup maple syrup (for glaze)
- 0.25 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, mix the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are fine.
- Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop small balls of dough into the air fryer basket, leaving space between them. (You may need to do this in batches.)
- Air fry for 5-6 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. They should feel firm to the touch.
- While the donut holes are cooking, prepare the maple glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Once the donut holes are done, remove them from the air fryer and immediately dip them in the maple glaze, ensuring they are coated evenly.
- Place the glazed donut holes on a wire rack to let the excess glaze drip off. Allow them to sit for a couple of minutes to set the glaze.






![- 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger - 1/2 teaspoon salt The dry ingredients are key to getting the right structure. The flour gives body, while the baking powder and baking soda help the whoopie pies rise. The spices add warmth and flavor, making the treats truly delicious. - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1 cup packed brown sugar - 1 cup vegetable oil - 4 large eggs These wet ingredients bring moisture and sweetness. The sugars create a rich taste, while the oil keeps the pies soft. Eggs bind everything together for the perfect texture. - 2 cups grated carrots (about 4 medium carrots) - 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, thoroughly drained - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Grated carrots add natural sweetness and a lovely color. Pineapple gives a hint of tartness and keeps the cakes moist. Vanilla adds a warm, sweet note that enhances the flavor. - 8 oz cream cheese, softened at room temperature - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature - 2 cups powdered sugar - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - A pinch of salt The cream cheese filling is rich and tangy. It balances the sweetness of the whoopie pies. Mixing in butter and powdered sugar creates a smooth texture. A pinch of salt enhances the flavors, while vanilla rounds it out. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - Line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This helps keep the whoopie pies from sticking. - In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and salt. - Make sure everything is well combined. This will give your cookies the right texture. - In a large bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Use an electric mixer to blend them until smooth. - Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This makes your batter light and fluffy. - Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined; some lumps are okay. - Fold in the grated carrots and crushed pineapple. Add the vanilla extract for extra flavor. - Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop rounded scoops of batter onto the prepared baking sheets. - Space them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking. - Bake for 12-15 minutes. The edges should be set, and the tops should spring back when touched. - While the cookies cool, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until creamy. - Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until the filling is smooth. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. - Once the cookies are fully cool, take one and spread a layer of cream cheese filling on the flat side. - Top it with another cookie, flat side down, to create a sandwich. - Repeat this with the remaining cookies until all the whoopie pies are assembled. For a special touch, dust them with powdered sugar. - For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions. To make your whoopie pies soft, avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing makes cookies tough. Mix just until the dry ingredients blend with the wet. A few lumps are fine. To know when cookies are done, look for set edges. Press the top gently. It should spring back. If it leaves a dent, bake a bit longer. For a pretty presentation, dust the whoopie pies with powdered sugar. You can also sprinkle chopped walnuts on top. This adds texture and looks great on a platter. Pair these sweet treats with milk or tea. A glass of cold milk balances the flavors. Tea adds warmth and comfort. You can add chopped nuts or raisins to the batter. This gives extra crunch and flavor. Try walnuts or pecans for a nutty touch. Using different spices can elevate your whoopie pies. Add nutmeg or allspice for a warm twist. A pinch of cloves can also deepen the flavor. For the full recipe, check out the Carrot Cake Whoopie Pies section above. {{image_4}} You can change the cream cheese filling to suit your taste. Try different flavors like lemon or orange. They add a zesty twist to your whoopie pies. If you want something lighter, use whipped cream instead. Whipped cream gives a fluffy texture that pairs well with the carrot cake base. For gluten-free options, use a gluten-free flour blend. This keeps the whoopie pies soft and tasty. If you need a vegan version, swap eggs with applesauce. Use a plant-based cream cheese for the filling. These adjustments make the treats enjoyable for everyone. Adding coconut brings a tropical vibe to your whoopie pies. Shredded coconut adds texture and sweetness. For chocolate lovers, consider adding cocoa powder to the batter. You can also use chocolate chips for extra richness. These combinations make each bite exciting and delicious. For the complete recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. You can store carrot cake whoopie pies at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. This keeps them soft and fresh. They stay good for about three days. If you want them to last longer, keep them in the fridge. To freeze whoopie pies, wrap each pie in plastic wrap. Then place them in a freezer bag. This extra layer keeps them fresh for up to three months. Label the bag with the date. When you're ready to eat them, just pull them out and let them thaw at room temperature. Enjoy whoopie pies at room temperature for the best taste. If you like them warm, heat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This makes the cream cheese filling soft and yummy. You can serve them as is or dust with powdered sugar for a fun touch. For a little crunch, add chopped nuts on top! Check the Full Recipe for more fun ideas. To make carrot cake whoopie pies, start by mixing flour, baking powder, and spices. In another bowl, blend sugars, oil, and eggs. Combine both mixtures and fold in grated carrots and pineapple. Drop spoonfuls onto baking sheets and bake until set. While they cool, whip up a cream cheese filling. Assemble by spreading filling between two cookies. Yes, you can prepare the batter in advance. Just cover it and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let the batter sit at room temperature for a bit. Then, scoop and bake as usual. Whoopie pies last about 3 to 4 days at room temperature. Keep them in an airtight container to stay soft and fresh. You can also refrigerate them to extend their life by a few more days. You can find carrot cake whoopie pies at local bakeries and specialty shops. Some grocery stores may also carry them in their bakery section. If you prefer homemade, follow the full recipe to make your own! To freeze whoopie pies, wrap each one in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag or container. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge or at room temperature. Absolutely! You can use different fillings like chocolate ganache, vanilla buttercream, or whipped cream. Get creative with flavors to suit your taste. Just ensure the filling complements the carrot cake flavor for the best results. You learned how to make delicious carrot cake whoopie pies. We covered the ingredients, mixing, baking, and assembling steps. Tips and tricks helped you perfect the texture and enhance flavors. You explored variations for fillings and dietary needs. Finally, I provided storage info for your treats. These whoopie pies will impress family or friends. Enjoy baking and sharing these treats!](https://dailydishlab.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/fbfd3e26-f016-49e5-9504-61425c24e368-768x768.webp)