Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites with Vanilla Glaze

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites are the ultimate sweet treat — golden, fluffy, and coated in a warm layer of cinnamon sugar, finished with a creamy vanilla glaze that melts over each bite. These little pieces of heaven are easy to make, irresistibly soft on the inside, and slightly crisp on the outside. Whether you serve them for breakfast, dessert, or a weekend indulgence, they’re guaranteed to disappear fast.

Ingredients

For the Donut Bites:

  • 1 small roll of refrigerated biscuit dough (or homemade dough)
  • Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil)

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Vanilla Glaze:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2–3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites

  1. Prepare the Coating and Glaze
    Start by mixing the cinnamon and sugar together in a shallow bowl — this will be used later to coat the warm donut bites. For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable. Adjust the consistency by adding a few extra drops of milk if needed.
  2. Cut the Dough
    Open the can of biscuits and separate each one. Cut each biscuit into four equal pieces, then roll them gently between your hands to form small, round balls. This ensures an even fry and perfect bite-sized pieces.
  3. Heat the Oil
    Pour oil into a deep skillet or small pot to a depth of about two inches. Heat it to 350°F (175°C). To check if it’s ready, drop a small piece of dough into the oil — if it sizzles and floats to the top within a few seconds, it’s perfect for frying.
  4. Fry the Donut Bites
    Carefully drop a few dough balls into the hot oil. Fry in small batches so the oil temperature stays consistent. Cook for about 1–2 minutes per side, or until the bites are golden brown and cooked through. Remove them using a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
  5. Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
    While the bites are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until each one is fully coated. The warmth helps the sugar stick beautifully, giving every bite that sweet, crunchy finish.
  6. Drizzle with Glaze
    Arrange the coated donut bites on a serving plate. Using a spoon or piping bag, drizzle the vanilla glaze generously over the top. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving — though they’re absolutely delicious while still warm.

Tips for the Perfect Donut Bites

  • Use fresh oil for the best flavor and color. Old oil can make the bites greasy or dark.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan. Frying too many at once can lower the temperature, leading to soggy results.
  • Try air frying. For a lighter version, brush the dough balls lightly with melted butter and air fry at 350°F for 6–8 minutes, then roll them in cinnamon sugar.
  • Add flavor twists. Mix a little nutmeg or pumpkin spice into the cinnamon sugar for a cozy variation, or swap vanilla glaze for caramel or chocolate sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites are perfect for brunch tables, holiday mornings, or dessert platters. Serve them warm with coffee, hot chocolate, or a glass of cold milk. They’re also great for parties — you can pile them into a bowl, drizzle them with extra glaze, and watch them vanish within minutes.

For an elegant touch, stack them on a dessert stand or serve them with dipping sauces like chocolate ganache or maple syrup. If you want to make them ahead, fry and coat the bites first, then store them in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven at a low temperature and drizzle fresh glaze just before serving.

Storage and Reheating

These donut bites are best enjoyed the same day, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to a month. To reheat, place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes, then add a fresh drizzle of glaze.

Conclusion

With their irresistible aroma, soft texture, and sweet cinnamon sugar coating, these Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bites are a dream come true for dessert lovers. They’re quick to make, fun to share, and taste like something straight from a bakery — but with ingredients you already have at home. Whether for a cozy morning or a sweet evening treat, these bites will fill your kitchen with warmth and your heart with joy.

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