Cinnamon Chai Donut Holes Glaze (Print)

Chai-spiced donut holes with a delicate vanilla glaze—ideal for cozy mornings or festive desserts.

# Ingredients:

→ Donut Holes

01 - 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
02 - 1/2 cup (100 g) granulated sugar
03 - 2 tsp baking powder
04 - 1/2 tsp baking soda
05 - 1/2 tsp salt
06 - 1 tsp ground cinnamon
07 - 1/2 tsp ground ginger
08 - 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
09 - 1/4 tsp ground cloves
10 - 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
11 - 2/3 cup (160 ml) whole milk
12 - 2 large eggs
13 - 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
14 - 1 tsp vanilla extract
15 - Vegetable oil, for frying

→ Vanilla Glaze

16 - 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar, sifted
17 - 2 tbsp whole milk
18 - 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

# Directions:

01 - In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cardamom, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg until evenly distributed.
02 - In a separate mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together the whole milk, large eggs, melted and cooled unsalted butter, and vanilla extract until fully emulsified.
03 - Gently pour the wet ingredients into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Mix with a spatula or spoon until just combined, ensuring not to overdevelop the gluten. The batter should be slightly lumpy.
04 - Pour approximately 2 inches (5 cm) of vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed pot. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a stable temperature of 350°F (175°C).
05 - Using a small cookie scoop or measuring tablespoon, carefully drop small portions of the batter into the heated oil. Fry in small batches to prevent overcrowding the pot, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to uneven cooking.
06 - Fry the donut holes for 2 to 3 minutes per batch, turning them occasionally with a slotted spoon, until they achieve a uniform golden-brown hue and appear cooked through.
07 - Remove the cooked donut holes from the hot oil using a slotted spoon and immediately place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
08 - In a clean bowl, whisk together the sifted powdered sugar, whole milk, and vanilla extract. Continue whisking until the glaze is smooth and free of lumps.
09 - While the donut holes are still slightly warm, carefully dip each one into the prepared vanilla glaze. Allow any excess glaze to drip back into the bowl. Transfer the glazed donut holes to a wire rack to allow the glaze to set.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • Ready in just 35 minutes from start to finish
  • No special equipment needed just basic kitchen tools
  • Perfect balance of chai spices that aren't overwhelming
  • Can be made ahead for breakfast gatherings or brunches
02 -
  • These donut holes are best enjoyed within 24 hours of making
  • The recipe doubles easily for larger gatherings
  • Perfect for holiday breakfast or brunch spreads
  • Can be served alongside coffee or hot chocolate for dipping
03 -
  • Always use a thermometer when frying to maintain the perfect temperature
  • For the most tender texture, handle the dough as little as possible when mixing
  • Let the glaze set completely before storing to prevent sticking
  • Test the oil temperature with a small bit of dough before committing to a full batch
  • The donut holes should sizzle immediately when they hit the oil but not violently