If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make treat, look no further than these Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Donut Holes.
These delightful bites are soft, fluffy, and packed with a subtle sourdough flavor, making them one of the best sourdough discard recipes you’ll ever try.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is simple to follow and yields fantastic results every time.
Ingredients and Equipment
Ingredients:
- Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (we recommend Bob’s Red Mill for best results)
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- Wet Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup unfed sourdough starter or discard (you can substitute this with an additional 1/4 cup of Greek yogurt if you don’t have a starter)
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for brushing)
- Optional:
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips of choice, melted (we love Hu Kitchen for their quality)
- Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 tbsp cinnamon
Equipment:
- Air fryer or oven
- Large mixing bowl
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet (if using the oven)
- Small bowl (for cinnamon sugar coating)
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Preheat Your Cooking Appliance
- Air Fryer: Preheat to 350°F.
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. Add the Greek yogurt and sourdough starter (or extra yogurt if substituting). Mix until well combined. The dough will be sticky, but don’t worry, this is normal!
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
Generously flour a clean surface and place the dough on it. Sprinkle some flour on top of the dough and knead a few times until it becomes smooth. If the dough is too sticky, add a tablespoon of flour at a time and continue kneading until it reaches the desired consistency.
Step 4: Shape the Donut Holes
Divide the dough into 16 equal pieces. Using your hands, shape each piece into a small ball.
Step 5: Cook the Donut Holes
- Air Fryer: Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper. Place the donut holes in the basket, working in batches if necessary. Brush the tops with melted butter. Air fry at 350°F for 4 minutes, gently flip, and air fry for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Oven: Place the donut holes on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with melted butter. Bake at 375°F for 15-18 minutes until golden brown.
Step 6: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
While the donut holes are baking, mix the cinnamon and sugar together in a small bowl. Once the donut holes are done, brush them with melted butter and immediately toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until they are well coated.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the donut holes warm, paired with your favorite melted chocolate for dipping. Enjoy the perfect blend of a slightly tangy sourdough base and a sweet, cinnamon-sugar coating.
Tips and Variations
- Flavor Boost: For a more pronounced sourdough flavor, use an active, bubbly starter.
- Extra Fluffiness: If you prefer a lighter texture, let the dough rest for 15-20 minutes before shaping the donut holes.
- Chocolate Dipping Sauce: Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
- Storage: These donut holes are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or oven for a few minutes before serving.
Conclusion
These Cinnamon Sugar Sourdough Donut Holes are a fantastic way to use up sourdough discard and create a treat that everyone will love.
They are higher in protein, thanks to the Greek yogurt, and incredibly easy to make.
Whether you choose to make them in an air fryer or an oven, the result is a batch of warm, fluffy, and irresistibly delicious donut holes that will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Happy baking!
Credit: @wellmadebykiley