Quick and Guilt-Free Air Fryer Banana Donut Holes Recipe

Indulge in a Guilt-Free Treat

There’s something incredibly comforting about the sweet aroma of baked goods wafting through the kitchen, especially when they’re as delightful as donut holes. Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy donut hole with a hint of banana flavor, minus the guilt of excess oil. That’s exactly what you’ll get with this quick and easy air fryer banana donut holes recipe. Perfect for busy mornings or an afternoon snack, these little bites of joy are sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Banana Donut Holes Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can have these delicious treats ready in just minutes.
• Guilt-Free Indulgence: Made without excess oil, these donut holes are a healthier alternative to traditional fried versions.
• Kid-Approved: Packed with sweet banana flavor, these treats are perfect for little ones and adults alike.
• Versatile Snack: These donut holes can be enjoyed at breakfast, as an afternoon treat, or even as a dessert.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and store them for a quick snack throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need to make Air Fryer Banana Donut Holes

For the Donut Holes

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or a sugar substitute)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Coating (Optional)

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the batter.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
3. Combine the wet ingredients: In another bowl, mix the mashed bananas, milk, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Combine both mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
5. Form the donut holes: Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form small balls of dough, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Air fry the donut holes: Place the donut holes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they aren’t touching. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. You may need to do this in batches depending on your air fryer size.
7. Coat the donut holes (optional): If you’d like to add a sweet coating, mix the sugar and cinnamon in a bowl. Roll the warm donut holes in the mixture to coat.
8. Cool and serve: Allow the donut holes to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best flavor!

Serving Suggestions

These air fryer banana donut holes are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your experience with a few simple serving ideas:

• Serve with a side of Greek yogurt for a protein-packed snack.
• Drizzle with honey or maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Pair with fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries, for a refreshing contrast.
• Enjoy alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
• For a fun twist, try dipping them in chocolate or icing for a dessert-like experience!

Tips for Success Air Fryer Banana Donut Holes

To ensure your air fryer banana donut holes turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
• Be careful not to overmix the batter; this can lead to dense donut holes.
• Adjust the cooking time based on your air fryer model; some may cook faster than others.
• Allow donut holes to cool slightly before rolling them in sugar to prevent the coating from melting.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, here are a few fun variations to consider:

• Chocolate Chip Banana Donut Holes: Stir in a handful of mini chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet surprise.
• Nutty Banana Donut Holes: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Spiced Banana Donut Holes: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make these donut holes gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

These air fryer banana donut holes are not just a treat; they’re a perfect example of how you can enjoy delicious flavors without compromising on health. Whether you’re treating yourself or looking for a fun snack for the kiddos, this recipe is sure to please. So go ahead, whip up a batch today, and savor the guilt-free goodness!