Gluten-Free Donut Holes: Oil-Fried or Air-Fryer Recipe

The whole family will enjoy these delicious gluten free donut holes, crisp on the outside and pillowy soft inside. This recipe yields bite-sized donuts fried to golden perfection, and air fryer directions are included if you prefer a lighter method.

If you love donuts, these donut holes taste like they came from a shop. When you cut donuts with a cutter, the center bits of dough naturally become donut holes — and they make a fun treat for dessert or snack time.

These donut holes can be coated several ways, from powdered sugar to chocolate. If you enjoy gluten free donuts, there are many more recipes to try, including baked options and a fried jelly donut variation.

Why we love these gluten free donut holes:

1. Prepare them fried in oil or in an air fryer.
2. The recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients.
3. The dough rises nicely so the donut holes are light and tender.
4. They’re delicious plain or coated with a variety of toppings.

These donut holes are amazing!!! Thank you for this easy recipe!

susie T., pinterest user

You may also enjoy gluten free fried yeast donuts and other variations for different flavors and seasons.

Ingredient Notes:

See the recipe card below for full ingredient amounts.

• Gluten Free Flour Blend – Choose a blend that performs well with yeast, such as Steve’s Bread Blend, Better Batter, or Cup4Cup. Some blends note they aren’t ideal for yeast baking, so read the packaging.
• Xanthan Gum – If your blend lacks a binder, add 1 teaspoon to help structure the dough.
• Active Dry Yeast – Ensure the brand you use is certified gluten free. Not all yeast blends are safe for celiac diets.
• Eggs – Use large eggs for the best texture.
• Milk – Any cow’s milk or non-dairy milk works.
• Butter – Use unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly so it’s warm but not hot (very hot butter can harm the yeast).

Step-By-Step Photos and Directions:

Begin by proofing the yeast. Combine warm water (no hotter than 110ºF), active dry yeast, and a small amount of sugar in a bowl. Let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 1: In a large bowl whisk together the gluten free flour blend, sugar, and salt.

Step 2: Whisk the eggs, milk, and melted butter into the foamy yeast mixture, then pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until combined. A stand mixer with a dough hook or paddle makes this easier.

Step 3: Shape the dough and prepare to rise. Unlike traditional wheat dough, many gluten free doughs do not get a long second rise, so shape now. Roll or pat the dough on a silicone mat or wax paper to 1½–2 inches thick, then use a donut cutter, small biscuit cutter, or a cookie scoop to form donut holes.

Note: Different gluten free blends vary widely in starch and grain ratios, which affects moisture. If the dough seems too wet add a bit more flour; if too dry add a splash more milk.

Step 4: Preheat your oven to 200ºF, then turn it off. Place the donut holes on a baking sheet and cover loosely with plastic wrap. Let them rise in the warm oven for about 45 minutes.

Step 5: Heat oil in a Dutch oven or a 12-inch cast iron skillet to 350ºF. Use a high smoke point oil such as avocado, mild vegetable, or canola.

Step 6: Use a slotted spoon to lower donut holes into the oil. Fry 1–2 minutes per side until golden, then remove with a slotted spoon or tongs.

Step 7: Drain the fried donut holes on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Step 8: Once cooled, toss donut holes in powdered sugar or your preferred coating.

Allow the donuts to cool fully before coating with powdered sugar, or the heat will dissolve the sugar. These are lovely plain or coated — for example, pumpkin donuts also taste great in powdered sugar.

Air Fryer Directions:

1. Prepare the dough and shape the donut holes as described above, and allow them to rise.
2. Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper and poke a few holes for airflow.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 375ºF.
4. Place donut holes gently in the basket, making sure they don’t touch.
5. Cook 2 minutes, flip carefully, then cook an additional 3 minutes. Larger donut holes may need more time—watch until golden.
6. Cool completely before coating.

Donut Holes Coating Ideas:

Here are some favorite coating options:

• Powdered Sugar – Toss the cooled donut holes in powdered sugar until well coated.
• Glaze – Whisk ½ cup powdered sugar with 2–3 tablespoons milk to a smooth glaze; dip donut holes and let them set on a rack.
• Cinnamon Sugar – Mix ⅓ cup sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and toss the donut holes to coat.
• Chocolate-Coated – Melt chocolate wafers, dip the donut holes, then chill briefly until the chocolate sets.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Below is a complete recipe card with ingredient amounts, equipment, and a step-by-step method so you can make roughly 36 donut holes. Nutritional information is included on a per-donut hole basis.

More Gluten Free Donut Recipes:

• Gluten Free Jelly Donuts
• Gluten Free Pumpkin Donuts
• Gluten Free Peanut Butter Donuts
• Gluten Free Caramel Apple Donuts