Name: Delicious Banana Donut Holes: Air-Fried & Vegan Treats
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 17 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Ripe Bananas (Very ripe with brown spots for best flavor); ¾ cup Self-Rising Flour (Can substitute with gluten-free blend); ½ teaspoon Cinnamon (Adjust according to taste); ¼ cup Sugar (Or Coconut Sugar for coating); 1 tablespoon Coconut Oil (For greasing and adds flavor); ¼ cup Sugar (Mix with cinnamon for coating); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Enhances taste for the coating)

The warm aroma of cinnamon and sweetness fills the air, instantly transporting me back to vibrant county fairs filled with laughter and indulgent treats. Today, I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for Vegan Cinnamon-Sugar Coated Banana Donut Holes, a delightful twist on a classic favorite that you can whip up in no time! Made with naturally sweetened ripe bananas and cooked to fluffy perfection in the air fryer, this quick dessert brings comfort without the guilt. These little gems offer the perfect crispy exterior with a soft center, making them not only a crowd-pleaser for any occasion but also an effortless addition to your breakfast or late-night snack repertoire. Are you ready to make your kitchen smell absolutely divine? Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Crave Banana Donut Holes?

Vegan, indulgent, and guilt-free—these donut holes are perfect for anyone seeking a sweet treat without compromising on health. Quick to prepare, this recipe takes just 17 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy mornings or spontaneous snack cravings. Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas, these delightful morsels are both wholesome and delicious. Whether drizzled with chocolate or dusted with powdered sugar, these are versatile enough to please any palate; consider them alongside our popular Cinnamon Swirl Donut for an even more exciting breakfast spread. Air-fried to crispy perfection, you’ll love the satisfying crunch that envelops the fluffy center—no deep frying required!

Banana Donut Holes Ingredients

• Get ready to create delicious treats!

For the Donut Holes

Ripe Bananas – The key to natural sweetness; use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and moisture.
Self-Rising Flour – Provides structure; can be substituted with a gluten-free blend for a tasty alternative.
Cinnamon – Adds warmth and enhances flavor; feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences.
Sugar (or Coconut Sugar) – Necessary for the cinnamon-sugar coating; modify the amount according to your desired sweetness level.
Coconut Oil – Used for greasing and adds healthy fat; it imparts a subtle coconut flavor that complements the banana beautifully.

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

Sugar – Mix with cinnamon for the coating; this adds a sweet crunch to your banana donut holes.
Cinnamon – A warm spice that elevates the overall taste; simply delightful when combined with sugary goodness.

Indulge in these delicious banana donut holes today—they’re bound to become a family favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vegan Cinnamon-Sugar Coated Banana Donut Holes

Step 1: Prepare Bananas
Start by peeling and mashing 1 cup of very ripe bananas in a mixing bowl until smooth. Look for brown spots on the skin, as they indicate optimal sweetness and moisture. This should take just a couple of minutes—get ready for a delightful banana aroma that will fill your kitchen!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine ¾ cup self-rising flour and ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Gradually add this mixture to the mashed bananas, stirring gently until a thick, dough-like consistency forms. When the dough holds together and is not overly sticky, you’re ready to proceed with shaping the donut holes.

Step 3: Form Dough Balls
Lightly grease your hands with coconut oil to prevent sticking, then knead the dough gently. Roll the dough into 20 to 24 small balls, roughly 1 to 1¼ inches in diameter, ensuring they’re evenly shaped. Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined plate while you prepare to preheat the air fryer.

Step 4: Preheat Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 2–3 minutes. While waiting, lightly grease the air fryer basket with a bit of coconut oil to ensure the donut holes don’t stick during cooking. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect, crispy texture in your vegan banana donut holes.

Step 5: Air Fry
Carefully place the dough balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Air fry for 6 to 7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and firm to the touch—a delicious sight!

Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
While the banana donut holes are air frying, mix together ¼ cup of sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon in a shallow bowl. This will create a sweet and aromatic coating that will add a delightful crunch to your treats. Set this mixture aside until the donut holes are ready to be coated.

Step 7: Coat Donut Holes
Once the banana donut holes are done cooking, brush them while warm with melted coconut oil to help the coating stick. Roll each donut hole in the prepared cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully covered, allowing the warmth to activate the sugar. They are now ready to serve—enjoy the scrumptiousness!

Expert Tips for Banana Donut Holes

Use Ripe Bananas: Ensure your bananas are very ripe, as those with brown spots provide the best flavor and moisture for your donut holes.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the dough just until combined to avoid tough donut holes. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture.
Chill If Sticky: If the dough becomes sticky, pop it in the fridge for 10 minutes before shaping into balls. This makes handling much easier.
Coat Right Away: Brush the donut holes with melted coconut oil and roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture immediately after air frying to ensure the coating sticks well.
Air Frying Tips: Make sure to place the dough balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can prevent even cooking and crispiness.
Serve Warm: These banana donut holes are best enjoyed warm. They create a lovely contrast between the crispy exterior and soft interior!

Make Ahead Options

These Vegan Cinnamon-Sugar Coated Banana Donut Holes are a fantastic option for meal prep! You can mash the ripe bananas and mix the dry ingredients up to 24 hours in advance, storing the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to indulge, simply shape the dough into balls and air fry them. If you want even more convenience, you can form the dough balls ahead of time and refrigerate them, well-covered, for up to 3 days. Just remember to coat them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture right before serving to keep that crisp texture. Enjoy the ease of having a delightful treat at your fingertips!

What to Serve with Vegan Cinnamon-Sugar Coated Banana Donut Holes

Pair your delightful air-fried treats with the perfect accompaniments that elevate every bite and create a memorable meal.

Creamy Almond Butter: A luscious spread that adds protein and richness, giving a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the donut holes.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of seasonal fruits balances the richness, bringing a refreshing brightness to your plate.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: The natural sweetness of pure maple syrup enhances the flavors while adding a touch of indulgence.
Soy Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy plant-based yogurt with granola and berries for a satisfying breakfast or light dessert that complements the donut holes beautifully.
Herbal Tea: A cup of soothing chamomile or mint tea pairs harmoniously, balancing the sweetness and enhancing the overall experience.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, a dollop of coconut whipped cream provides a rich finish, making every bite feel decadent.
Chocolate Drizzle: For the chocolate lovers, a drizzle of melted dairy-free chocolate can create an unforgettable sweet treat.

Enjoy these pairings for a cozy breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a delightful dessert option!

Variations & Substitutions for Banana Donut Holes

Get ready to transform your Banana Donut Holes into personalized delights that cater to your cravings and dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Substitute self-rising flour with your favorite gluten-free blend for a tasty alternative that everyone can enjoy.
Nutty & Crunchy: Add ⅓ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the softness of the donut holes.
Chocolate Lovers: Stir in ⅓ cup of dairy-free chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite that will satisfy any chocolate craving.
Coconut Twist: Swap coconut oil with melted almond or avocado oil and add shredded unsweetened coconut for a tropical touch to each donut hole.
Syrupy Goodness: Drizzle warm donut holes with maple syrup after coating in cinnamon-sugar for an indulgent twist that enhances the sweetness.
Maple Syrup Coating: Instead of the cinnamon-sugar mixture, dip the warm donut holes in maple syrup and sprinkle with crushed nuts for a unique flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon-sugar mixture for a surprising and exciting heat that will wake up your taste buds.

For more delightful vegan treats to complement your culinary repertoire, consider checking out our Chocolate Espresso Banana recipe, or treat yourself to the rich flavors of Cinnamon Swirl Donut. Enjoy experimenting!

How to Store and Freeze Banana Donut Holes

Airtight Storage: Store the banana donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness and crispy texture.

Refrigeration: If you want to keep them longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. However, this may affect their crunchiness.

Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the cooled banana donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To restore the delicious crispy exterior, reheat frozen donut holes in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3–4 minutes before serving.

Vegan Cinnamon-Sugar Coated Banana Donut Holes Recipe FAQs

What type of bananas should I use for the donut holes?
Absolutely! For the best results, you want to use very ripe bananas with brown spots. These bananas are sweeter and moister, which is key to achieving deliciously fluffy donut holes. If you find some that are overly brown, don’t worry—they’re perfect for baking and cooking!

How should I store leftover donut holes?
You can enjoy these scrumptious vegan banana donut holes fresh, but if you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’re looking to keep them longer, they can also be refrigerated for up to 5 days, but keep in mind that refrigeration may slightly affect their crispiness.

Can I freeze the banana donut holes?
Definitely! To freeze the banana donut holes, first let them cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Then, transfer the frozen donut holes to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 3–4 minutes.

What if my dough is too sticky?
Very! If you encounter sticky dough while preparing the donut holes, don’t fret! Just pop the bowl into the refrigerator and chill for about 10 minutes. This will make the dough much easier to handle. You can also lightly grease your hands with coconut oil to prevent sticking as you form the balls.

Are these donut holes safe for those with allergies?
It’s essential to consider allergies! While this recipe is vegan, ingredients like coconut oil may cause allergies for some individuals. Ensure that everyone at your table is okay with the ingredients used. Furthermore, if you’re using a gluten-free flour blend, always check that it’s safe for your allergies.

How can I enhance the flavor of my donut holes?
You can absolutely dress them up! Consider adding ⅓ cup of dairy-free chocolate chips or chopped nuts like walnuts to your dough for added flavor and texture. Also, don’t shy away from experimenting with toppings; a light drizzle of dairy-free chocolate or a sprinkle of powdered sugar can take your dessert to the next level!