Pin it
These air fryer banana bread donut holes are my secret trick when I have overripe bananas to use up but no time for a full loaf. They come together in minutes with just two main ingredients, and the cinnamon sugar coating gives them that true donut shop flavor while staying homemade and wholesome. Whenever my family smells them, they know a quick treat is on the way – they often disappear before they cool.
I whipped these up on a rainy afternoon when we needed a little pick-me-up. Now my kids ask for them every time bananas are turning brown.
Ingredients
- Banana: Makes the donut holes naturally sweet and moist, choose a ripe banana with lots of spots for the best flavor
- Self-rising flour: Allows these to puff nicely with no extra leavening needed, look for a fine texture and check the expiry date for best results
- Cinnamon: Adds that warm bakery aroma, choose good quality ground cinnamon for biggest impact
- Sugar: Creates the classic donut finish, choose plain white sugar or try coconut sugar for a caramel twist
- Coconut oil: Keeps things moist and rich and makes the coating stick, use aromatic virgin coconut oil if you want extra flavor or opt for melted vegan butter for a milder finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mash the Banana:
- Use a fork to mash a large ripe banana into a smooth puree, measure it out to get half a cup. If you are short add a touch more from a second banana or remove a spoonful if you have overfilled.
- Combine and Knead the Dough:
- Stir the self-rising flour into the banana with a spatula until lumpy. Oil your hands using melted coconut oil and knead the dough right in the bowl. The dough will be sticky so keep your hands oiled, keep kneading for about two minutes until a cohesive sticky ball forms. It should feel moist and stretchy, not dry like bread dough, do not overwork or overflour.
- Shape the Donut Holes:
- Grease your hands again and pinch off tablespoon-sized pieces of dough. Roll each gently in your palms to round out and place on a parchment-lined plate. They do not have to be perfect balls, this rustic look is part of the fun.
- Air Fry the Donut Holes:
- Preheat your air fryer to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit. Spray the donut balls lightly with oil and arrange in the basket leaving room for them to puff. Cook for six to seven minutes until golden and firm to the touch.
- Coat in Cinnamon Sugar:
- While still warm, brush donut holes with melted coconut oil. Roll each gently in cinnamon sugar coating all sides. Work quickly so the sugar sticks while they are hot.
- Serve Warm:
- Enjoy immediately while fluffy and warm. They disappear fast in my house.
Pin it
You Must Know
- High in fiber and potassium thanks to fresh banana
- No eggs or dairy needed which makes them vegan friendly
- Lighter than classic donut holes since they are air fried
My favorite part is that big banana flavor in every bite. The first time I made these my youngest helped roll them and his hands were covered in cinnamon sugar for hours we still laugh about it.
Storage Tips
Once completely cooled store any leftover donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep the coating crisp avoid covering while still warm. If you want to refresh the texture pop them back in the air fryer for a minute.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have self-rising flour use a cup of all-purpose flour mixed with two teaspoons baking powder. For sugar try monk fruit blend or coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index or unrefined taste. Vegan butter works anywhere coconut oil is listed if you prefer.
Serving Suggestions
These donut holes are fun as a breakfast treat or a little afternoon snack with coffee or tea. Turn them into dessert by drizzling with melted chocolate or serving with whipped coconut cream. My kids love them with chocolate hazelnut spread on the side.
Pin it
Cultural Context
Banana bread is a classic way to use up ripe bananas in many homes and these donut holes are a quick twist on that beloved tradition. Air frying brings a modern healthy spin so you get that nostalgic banana bread taste in snackable form.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use all-purpose flour instead of self-rising flour?
Yes, substitute with 1 cup all-purpose flour combined with two teaspoons baking powder for similar results.
- → How do I keep the dough from sticking to my hands?
Lightly oil your hands before kneading and shaping the dough to prevent sticking and ensure easy handling.
- → Can these donut holes be made vegan?
Yes, use melted coconut oil or vegan butter, and choose a plant-based sugar alternative if desired.
- → How long do the donut holes stay fresh?
Store them in an airtight container for up to two days at room temperature for the best texture.
- → What's the best coating for maximum flavor?
Brush warm donut holes with melted coconut oil, then roll in a cinnamon sugar blend for a classic finish.
- → Why is my dough too sticky?
If the dough is sticky, add oil—not more flour. Extra flour will make the texture dense; keep the dough moist.