Air Fryer Banana Donut Holes

Air Fryer Banana Donut Holes are soft, golden bites of dough filled with real banana flavor and finished with a light dusting of sugar. Made quickly in the air fryer, these mini treats offer a healthier alternative to deep-fried donuts with all the sweet satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These banana donut holes are perfect when you crave something sweet and homemade without the hassle of frying. They come together with simple ingredients and no oil splatters, thanks to the air fryer. Their light texture, natural banana sweetness, and warm cinnamon-sugar finish make them irresistible for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Salt
• Ripe bananas (mashed)
• Granulated sugar
• Egg
• Milk
• Vanilla extract
• Unsalted butter (melted)
• Cinnamon (optional, for coating)
• Powdered sugar or cinnamon-sugar for topping

Directions

1. Preheat air fryer
   Preheat your air fryer to 350 °F (175 °C).
2. Mix dry ingredients
   In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Combine wet ingredients
   In another bowl, mash the ripe banana and mix with sugar, egg, milk, vanilla, and melted butter.
4. Make the dough
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
5. Shape the donut holes
   Using a small scoop or your hands, form the dough into 1-inch balls.
6. Air fry
   Lightly grease the air fryer basket. Place the dough balls in a single layer, leaving space between them. Cook for 7–9 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
7. Coat and serve
   Roll the warm donut holes in powdered sugar or cinnamon-sugar mixture. Serve warm.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 16–18 donut holes
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 8 minutes
• Total time: 18 minutes

Variations

• Filled version: Inject with banana cream or Nutella using a piping bag.
• Chocolate banana: Add mini chocolate chips to the batter.
• Spiced: Mix in cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for extra flavor.
• Vegan: Use a flax egg, plant-based milk, and vegan butter.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.

Storage / Reheating

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keeps well for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed bag for up to 1 month.
• Reheating:
  • Air fryer: Reheat at 325 °F for 2–3 minutes.
  • Microwave: Heat in 10–15 second intervals until warm.

FAQs

Can I bake these instead of air frying?

Yes. Bake at 350 °F for about 10–12 minutes or until golden brown.

What kind of banana should I use?

Use overripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

The dough is best used fresh, but you can refrigerate it for up to 12 hours.

Why are my donut holes dense?

Overmixing the dough can result in a dense texture. Mix just until combined.

Can I use self-rising flour?

Yes, but omit the baking powder and salt if using self-rising flour.

Do I need to grease the air fryer?

Lightly spraying the basket with oil helps prevent sticking and promotes even browning.

Are they sweet enough without coating?

They are mildly sweet on their own, but the sugar coating enhances the flavor.

Can I add nuts?

Yes. Finely chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch and flavor.

Can kids help with this recipe?

Absolutely. Shaping the dough and coating the donuts are great tasks for children.

What dipping sauces go well?

Chocolate sauce, caramel, or a simple vanilla glaze pair well with these donut holes.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Banana Donut Holes are a quick, wholesome, and delicious treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth without the mess of deep frying. With their moist banana center and sugar-dusted tops, they’re ideal for any time of day. Whether you’re serving them fresh for breakfast or packing them in a lunchbox, these mini donut holes are guaranteed to delight.

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