Sweet Potato Donut Holes
Soft, fluffy, and perfectly spiced sweet potato donut holes! These bite-sized treats are lightly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and irresistible with every bite. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack!
Ingredients:
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1 cup mashed sweet potato (cooked and cooled)
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1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
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½ cup granulated sugar
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¼ cup brown sugar
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2 tsp baking powder
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½ tsp baking soda
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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¼ tsp nutmeg
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¼ tsp salt
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2 large eggs
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¼ cup milk
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2 tbsp melted butter
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
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Cook and mash the sweet potatoes until smooth. Allow to cool completely. (15 minutes)
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In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and sugars. (3 minutes)
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In a separate bowl, mix mashed sweet potato, eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth. (4 minutes)
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Gradually combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix. (3 minutes)
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Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). (5 minutes)
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Scoop small portions of dough and carefully drop them into the hot oil. Fry in batches. (6–8 minutes)
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Turn donut holes occasionally until golden brown and fully cooked.
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Remove and drain on paper towels. Optionally roll in cinnamon sugar while warm. (2 minutes)
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 6 servings.
Easy Sweet Potato Donut Holes – Ready in Under 30 Minutes
Craving a tasty treat that’s also healthy and quick? Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy donut hole. It’s not just yummy but also full of nutrients.
Easy sweet potato donut holes are a game-changer for anyone wanting a sweet treat without feeling guilty. They’re made with wholesome ingredients and ready in under 30 minutes. This makes them ideal for a busy day.

Using easy sweet potato recipes as a base, you can make a delightful snack that’s both satisfying and healthy. The best part? You probably have most of the ingredients already in your pantry.
Key Takeaways
- Quick and easy recipe ready in under 30 minutes
- Healthy ingredients make for a guilt-free treat
- Perfect for busy days or as a snack for kids
- Customizable with your favorite toppings or spices
- Great way to use up sweet potatoes and reduce food waste
Why Sweet Potato Donut Holes Are the Perfect Treat
Sweet potato donut holes are a tasty twist on regular donuts. They mix flavor with nutrition in a unique way. Their moist texture and natural sweetness make them a great choice for healthier desserts.

The Natural Sweetness and Texture Benefits
Sweet potato donut holes are sweet without needing extra sugar. The sweet potatoes make them soft and fluffy, making them irresistible.
Food experts say sweet potatoes improve texture and taste in baked goods. They make donut holes more enjoyable and satisfying.
Nutritional Advantages Over Traditional Donuts
Sweet potato donut holes are healthier than regular donuts. They’re full of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This makes them a better choice for your body.
Sweet potatoes also have antioxidants, which are good for your health. Plus, they can be made with healthier ingredients, making them a guilt-free treat.
A study found sweet potatoes are full of beta-carotene, which is good for your eyes and immune system. This makes sweet potato donut holes a tasty and healthier option than fried donuts.
In summary, sweet potato donut holes are a great treat. They’re sweet, soft, and nutritious. They’re a healthier dessert option that’s still delicious and satisfying.
Essential Ingredients and Equipment
To make tasty sweet potato donut holes, you need a few basic ingredients and tools. Having everything ready before you start makes the process smoother and more fun.
Complete Ingredient List and Substitutions
The ingredients for sweet potato donut holes are simple and easy to find. You’ll need:
- 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
If you have dietary restrictions, there are substitutions you can make. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour. To make it dairy-free, replace the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
To make sweet potato donut holes, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. You’ll need a large mixing bowl, a mixing spoon or electric mixer, a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and a cookie scoop or spoon. If you prefer to fry your donut holes, you’ll also need a deep frying pan with at least 2-3 inches of oil and a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature.
Having the right tools makes the process easier and helps you get the best results. Whether you’re baking or frying, these tools will help you create delicious cinnamon sugar donut holes that everyone will love.
Sweet Potato Preparation Essentials
Starting with the right sweet potatoes is key to making great sweet potato donut holes. This step makes sure your donut holes are tasty and safe to eat.
Selecting and Storing Sweet Potatoes
First, pick sweet potatoes that are firm and have smooth skin. Stay away from those that look damaged or rotten. Keep them in a cool, dark spot to keep them fresh longer.

Do You Poke Holes in Sweet Potatoes Before Baking?
Poking holes in sweet potatoes before baking is very important. It lets steam out while they bake, so they don’t burst. Use a fork to make several holes in the sweet potatoes. This helps them bake evenly and safely.
What Happens If You Don’t Poke Holes in Sweet Potatoes?
If you don’t poke holes, steam can build up and cause them to burst. This can make a mess in your oven and ruin your sweet potatoes. It also makes them hard to handle. Plus, not poking holes can make them cook unevenly, which affects their taste and texture.
By following these steps, you’ll make delicious sweet potato donut holes. They’re great as sweet potato snack ideas or a special fall dessert recipe. The right preparation is essential for the best taste and texture.
How to Make Sweet Potato Donut Holes Step-by-Step
We’ll show you how to make sweet potato donut holes. This includes preparing the sweet potato base and choosing a cooking method. Follow these simple steps to make delicious homemade sweet potato donuts that everyone will love.
Preparing the Perfect Sweet Potato Base
The key to great sweet potato donut holes is a well-prepared sweet potato base. Start by baking or boiling your sweet potatoes until they’re tender. If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 45 minutes, or until they’re soft when pierced with a fork.
After cooking, let the sweet potatoes cool slightly. Then, scoop out the flesh and mash it until smooth. This mashed sweet potato will be the base of your donut dough, so make sure it’s smooth and lump-free.
Mixing and Forming Your Donut Holes
To mix your donut dough, combine the mashed sweet potato with flour, sugar, eggs, and any other desired ingredients (like cinnamon or nutmeg) in a large bowl. Mix everything together until you have a smooth, consistent dough. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour; if it’s too dry, add a bit more egg or milk.
Once your dough is ready, use a spoon or a cookie scoop to form it into small balls. You should end up with around 20-25 donut holes, depending on the size you prefer.
Baking vs. Frying Methods
When cooking your sweet potato donut holes, you can choose between baking or frying. Baking is a healthier option that still yields delicious results. To bake, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the donut holes are golden brown.
Frying gives your donut holes a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior. Heat about 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) of oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the donut holes in batches until they’re golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
| Cooking Method | Temperature | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Baking | 375°F (190°C) | 10-12 minutes |
| Frying | 350°F (175°C) | 2-3 minutes per side |
Both methods produce tasty results, so choose the one that best suits your preferences and dietary needs.
The Best Sweet Potato Donut Holes – Soft, Fluffy & Irresistible
Making soft and fluffy sweet potato donut holes is easier than you think. The key is understanding texture and how to get it right. Sweet potato desserts, like these donut holes, are a delicious and nutritious treat. With easy sweet potato recipes, you can make desserts that everyone will love.
The Secret to Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get the perfect texture, use the right ingredients and cooking methods. Cook the sweet potatoes until they’re tender for a smooth, fluffy inside. Mix all-purpose flour with baking powder for a light and airy texture.
Don’t overmix the dough. Overmixing can make the donut holes dense and tough. Instead, gently fold the ingredients together until they form a cohesive mixture. This keeps the sweet potatoes tender and soft.
Troubleshooting Common Texture Problems
Even with the best efforts, texture problems can still happen. If your donut holes are too dense, it might be from overmixing or too much flour. To fix this, measure ingredients carefully and mix just until they come together.
If your donut holes are too dry, it could be from overcooked sweet potatoes or overworked dough. Cook the sweet potatoes until they’re tender but still moist. Also, be gentle when shaping to prevent gluten development.
By following these tips, you can make sweet potato donut holes that are delicious and soft. Try different coatings and flavors to find your favorite.
Delicious Coating and Flavor Variations
Make your sweet potato donut holes even better with tasty coatings and flavors. Sweet potato donut holes are super versatile. You can try many coatings and flavors, making them great for any event.
Classic Cinnamon Sugar Coating
A classic cinnamon sugar coating is always a hit. Mix granulated sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. When the donut holes are warm, toss them in the cinnamon sugar until they’re coated evenly. This adds a nice crunch and sweetness.
Creative Glazes and Frostings
Want to get creative? Try glazes and frostings for endless options. Make a simple glaze by whisking powdered sugar and milk or cream. Add vanilla or maple syrup for different flavors. Frostings can be made with cream cheese, butter, or other ingredients for extra richness.
Seasonal Flavor Combinations
Seasonal flavors can make your donut holes even more special. In fall, try pumpkin spice or apple cider flavors. Winter is perfect for peppermint or gingerbread. Spring brings lemon or strawberry flavors. Just remember, the key is to experiment and find what you love.
| Coating/Flavor | Description | Seasonality |
|---|---|---|
| Cinnamon Sugar | Classic cinnamon sugar coating | All year |
| Pumpkin Spice Glaze | Powdered sugar glaze with pumpkin spice | Fall |
| Lemon Frosting | Cream cheese frosting with lemon zest | Spring |
Dietary-Friendly Sweet Potato Donut Holes
Looking for a gluten-free, vegan, or healthier dessert? Sweet potato donut holes fit the bill. These changes make them perfect for everyone, especially during fall. They’re a great fall dessert recipe.
Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Donut Holes Recipe Adjustments
To make gluten-free donut holes, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of wheat flour. This blend usually has rice flour, potato starch, and tapioca flour. It’s important to pick a blend made for baking, with xanthan gum or guar gum for texture.
When swapping flour, keep the ratio right and adjust the liquid. Gluten-free flours soak up moisture differently. Also, be careful of gluten contamination if baking for someone with a severe intolerance.
Vegan Sweet Potato Donut Holes Ingredient Swaps
For vegan donut holes, make a few key swaps. Use flax eggs or applesauce instead of eggs for moisture and binding. Choose plant-based milk and vegan sugar or maple syrup. Vegan butter or coconut oil replaces regular butter.
Don’t forget to swap honey with a vegan alternative like maple syrup. Always check the labels to avoid animal products.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To keep your sweet potato donut holes fresh, proper storage is key. Whether you’ve made cinnamon sugar or sweet potato donut holes, it’s important to keep their texture and flavor. This way, you can enjoy them for longer.
How to Store Leftover Donut Holes
Storing leftover donut holes is easy. Cool them down completely, then put them in an airtight container. They can stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Tip: Store them with a piece of bread to keep them soft.
- Cool donut holes completely before storing.
- Use an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- Store at room temperature or refrigerate for longer storage.
Freezing and Reheating for Best Results
Freezing is great for longer storage. Cool the donut holes, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, move them to a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes. Note: Freezing is good for both cinnamon sugar and sweet potato donut holes, keeping them fresh.
Conclusion: Enjoy These Healthy Sweet Potato Donut Holes Every Week
Now that you’ve learned to make sweet potato donut holes, it’s time to make them a regular treat. They are sweet and soft, perfect for a sweet craving without losing nutrition.
Sweet potato donut holes are an easy recipe to add more nutrients to your diet. Sweet potatoes are full of vitamins and minerals, making them a great choice for baking. They’re perfect for a tasty dessert or a sweet snack.
With the simple steps from this article, you can make these healthy donut holes every week. Try different glazes and flavors to keep it exciting. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your sweet potato desserts. So go ahead, enjoy these delicious treats and make them a staple in your kitchen.
FAQ
What is the best way to store leftover sweet potato donut holes?
To keep them fresh, store leftover sweet potato donut holes in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days. Or, freeze them for up to 2 months. Just thaw and reheat when you want to enjoy them again.
Can I make sweet potato donut holes without a deep fryer?
Yes, you can bake them instead of frying. Shape the dough into balls and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes. They’re done when they’re cooked through.
Are sweet potato donut holes gluten-free?
Sweet potato donut holes can be gluten-free. Just use a gluten-free flour blend instead of traditional flour. Make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free too.
Can I make vegan sweet potato donut holes?
Yes, you can make vegan sweet potato donut holes. Replace eggs with a flax egg or mashed banana. Use non-dairy milk and vegan-friendly sugar and other ingredients.
How do I achieve the perfect texture for sweet potato donut holes?
To get the perfect texture, don’t overmix the dough. Bake or fry them until they’re cooked but still tender. Adjust the sweet potato to flour ratio if needed.
Can I make sweet potato donut holes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and shape the donut holes ahead of time. Freeze them until solid. Then, bake or fry them when you’re ready.
What are some creative glaze and frosting options for sweet potato donut holes?
Try different glazes and frostings like maple cream cheese frosting or cinnamon sugar glaze. You can also use a simple powdered sugar glaze. Experiment to find your favorite.
How do I reheat frozen sweet potato donut holes?
To reheat frozen sweet potato donut holes, thaw them at room temperature or microwave them briefly. Or, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes. They’ll be warm and ready to enjoy.
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