Banana Donut Holes

Name: Banana Donut Holes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Banana (1 large banana); 3/4 cup Self-Rising Flour; 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon; 1/4 cup Unrefined Sugar; 2 tablespoons Coconut Oil (melted, or melted vegan butter); 2-3 teaspoons Melted Coconut Oil

Author: Lora

Published: March 25, 2026

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Introduction to Banana Donut Holes

What if I told you that a sweet treat could be both easy and delightful? Banana donut holes are just that. They’re my go-to when I need a quick solution during those busy days. Life often gets hectic, leaving little time for elaborate recipes. But these fluffy, warm bites provide comfort and satisfaction without a fuss. Making these at home means impressing the family while enjoying the fun of baking! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a delicious treat that fills your home with warmth and wonderful scents. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Banana Donut Holes

These banana donut holes are a dream come true for busy moms like me! They can be whipped up in just 17 minutes, perfect for those rushed mornings or snack attacks after school. The taste? Irresistibly sweet and comforting, with a delightful hint of cinnamon that wraps around each bite. Plus, they’re baked in the air fryer, making them healthier than traditional fried treats. Your loved ones will absolutely adore them!

Ingredients for Banana Donut Holes

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these delicious banana donut holes. Here’s what you need:

Banana: The star of the show! A ripe banana brings natural sweetness and moisture. Look for one that’s speckled for the best flavor.
Self-Rising Flour: This magical ingredient combines flour, baking powder, and salt. It gives your donut holes that lovely lift without needing extra leavening agents.
Cinnamon: A dash of this spice adds warmth and a hint of cozy sweetness. It pairs perfectly with the banana.

Unrefined Sugar: I love using unrefined sugar for a richer taste. It’s less processed and gives a lovely caramel flavor, but regular sugar works too!
Coconut Oil: This adds a wonderful nuttiness. You can swap it for melted vegan butter if you prefer. It keeps the dough moist and tender.
Avocado Oil: Used for spraying and greasing to help achieve that lovely golden color in the air fryer. You can substitute with any other oil you have on hand.

For exact quantities, check the end of the article where I’ve listed everything you need for this scrumptious recipe. Let’s make these delightful banana donut holes! They’re sure to brighten up your day.

How to Make Banana Donut Holes

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the joyful process of making these banana donut holes. Trust me, it’s easier than pie—and way more fun! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a platter of warm treats in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Banana Mixture

First things first, grab that ripe banana and mash it into a smooth puree. It should yield about half a cup. This banana is the heart of our donut holes, so be sure it’s nice and smooth! If you don’t get this right, the batter might not hold its shape when we combine it with the flour.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Next, add the self-rising flour to the banana puree. Use a rubber spatula to mix until lumps start forming. Don’t worry if it looks a bit messy—it’s all part of the fun! Now, oil your hands lightly with coconut oil and knead the mixture until it forms a nice, soft dough ball. If it sticks, just add a wee bit of oil to your hands to keep it manageable.

Step 3: Adjust Dough Consistency

If your dough feels overly sticky, you can add 2 to 3 extra tablespoons of flour to get the right texture. Remember, though, we don’t want it too dry. A moist and elastic dough is the goal for those fluffy bites!

Step 4: Shape the Donut Holes

Now comes the fun part! Grease your hands again with melted coconut oil and scoop about a tablespoon of the dough. Roll it gently into a ball—think of creating little spheres of joy! Place each ball on a plate lined with parchment paper to avoid any sticking.

Step 5: Preheat and Prepare Air Fryer

Once you’ve shaped all your dough, lightly spray each ball with avocado oil. This is your ticket to achieving that golden brown finish! Don’t forget to spray the air fryer basket too, then arrange the donut holes with about an inch of space in between them. They need room to puff up!

Step 6: Air Fry and Golden Brown Finish

Set your air fryer to 350°F (180°C) and let those beauties cook for 6-7 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’ll puff up and turn a lovely golden brown. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be nothing short of heavenly!

Step 7: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

Once they’re done, take each warm donut hole and brush it with melted coconut oil. Then, lovingly roll them in cinnamon sugar. This final touch is what makes them truly irresistible and adds just the right amount of sweetness.

Step 8: Serve Warm

And there you have it! Serve these warm banana donut holes immediately for the best experience. Watch as your loved ones swoon with delight as they sink their teeth into these delicious treats!

Tips for Success

Use a ripe banana for optimal sweetness and flavor.
Don’t over-flour your dough; keep it moist for fluffy bites.
Let your air fryer preheat for even cooking.
Check on the donut holes as they cook; every air fryer is different!

For a twist, experiment with adding chocolate chips or nuts.

Equipment Needed

Air Fryer: The star of the show! If you don’t have one, an oven can work too.
Mixing Bowl: A good-sized bowl to combine ingredients. Any bowl will do!

Rubber Spatula: Perfect for mixing without damaging the batter.
Parchment Paper: Helps prevent sticking; wax paper can be a substitute.
Measuring Cups: Needed for precision, but you can eyeball it in a pinch.

Variations

Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.

Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness.
Spiced Up: Experiment with different spices, like nutmeg or ginger, for unique flavors.
Gluten-Free: Substitute self-rising flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
Fruit Fusion: Blend in some blueberries or strawberries for a fruity twist!

Serving Suggestions

With Coffee: Pair these donut holes with your morning coffee for a delightful breakfast.
Fruit Platter: Serve alongside fresh fruits like berries or apple slices for a refreshing contrast.
Presentation: Arrange on a rustic wooden board dusted with extra cinnamon sugar for a charming display.

Dip It: Provide honey or chocolate sauce for dipping fun!

FAQs about Banana Donut Holes

As you venture into making these delightful banana donut holes, you might have a few questions. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered!

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just ensure they’re thawed and mashed well before measuring. Frozen bananas can actually make your donut holes even more moist!

What can I substitute for coconut oil?

If coconut oil isn’t your thing, feel free to use melted vegan butter or any neutral oil you have on hand. Everyone has different tastes!

How do I store leftover donut holes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You can also freeze them for longer freshness, and just reheat in the air fryer!

Can I make these banana donut holes vegan?

You bet! Use a ripe banana, unrefined sugar, and substitute coconut oil with melted vegan butter. These little bites will still taste amazing!

What should I pair these donut holes with?

They go wonderfully with coffee, tea, or even a dollop of yogurt. The warm flavors complement perfectly with a chilled drink!

Final Thoughts

These banana donut holes are not just a recipe; they’re a joyful experience waiting to happen in your kitchen. Whether it’s a quick breakfast or a delightful after-school snack, each fluffy bite brings a smile. I love seeing my family gather around, sharing stories while indulging in warm, sweet treats. They’re simple enough to whip up on a whim yet impressive enough to share with friends. Try making them together as a family activity; you might just create memories alongside delicious food. Enjoy the warmth, laughter, and pleasure that these delightful banana donut holes bring to your home!