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I’ve always had a soft spot for sweet treats that sneak in some fruit, and let me tell you, these Banana Donut Holes are my latest obsession. Picture this: bite-sized balls of fluffy dough infused with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, fried to golden perfection and rolled in cinnamon sugar. It’s like a mini vacation to flavor town every time you pop one in your mouth. I first whipped up a batch of Banana Donut Holes on a lazy weekend morning, and they vanished faster than I could say “second helping.” If you’re craving something indulgent yet simple, this Banana Donut Holes recipe is about to become your go-to. We’re talking easy prep, crowd-pleasing taste, and that satisfying crunch outside with a soft, banana-kissed center inside. Stick around because I’m sharing all the secrets to making your own batch of these delightful Banana Donut Holes that will have everyone asking for more.
Key Takeaways:
- These Banana Donut Holes use ripe bananas for natural sweetness and moisture, making them a healthier twist on classic donuts.
- Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for quick breakfasts or snack attacks without much hassle.
- Bursting with warm banana flavor and a cinnamon-sugar coating that’s irresistibly addictive.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep your Banana Donut Holes light and tender every time.
- Store extras in an airtight container for up to two days, or freeze for longer enjoyment.
Why You’ll Adore This Banana Donut Holes
Irresistible Banana Flavor Burst: There’s something magical about how the ripe bananas shine through in every bite of these Banana Donut Holes, adding a moist, tropical sweetness that elevates them beyond ordinary donuts. I love how they remind me of banana bread but in a fun, poppable size. You’ll find yourself reaching for seconds without guilt.
Quick and Effortless to Prepare: In my experience, these Banana Donut Holes come together in no time, using pantry staples you likely already have on hand. No yeast rising means you’re frying up treats faster than a traditional donut recipe. It’s the kind of weekend project that feels rewarding without overwhelming your schedule—what’s not to love?
Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you’re hosting brunch or just need a pick-me-up, these Banana Donut Holes fit right in with their crowd-pleasing appeal. The warm spices and fruity notes make them a hit with kids and adults alike. Plus, they’re customizable, so you can tweak them to suit your mood.
Healthier Indulgence Option: Let’s be honest, donuts can feel heavy, but these Banana Donut Holes incorporate real fruit for a nutrient boost while still delivering that fried treat satisfaction. I appreciate how they balance indulgence with a touch of wholesomeness. You won’t feel deprived when enjoying a few—or a few more.
Essential Ingredients for Banana Donut Holes
Ripe Bananas: The star of these Banana Donut Holes, ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture that keeps the dough tender without needing extra sugar. I always choose ones with lots of brown spots for maximum flavor infusion. They mash easily into the batter, creating that signature banana essence that makes every bite irresistible. Without them, your Banana Donut Holes just wouldn’t be the same.
All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of the dough, giving your Banana Donut Holes their light, fluffy texture when fried. It’s versatile and ensures the treats hold their shape without falling apart. In my kitchen, I sift it first to avoid lumps, which leads to smoother mixing and better results overall. A cup or so is all you need for a perfect batch.
Cinnamon and Sugar for Coating: The finishing touch that transforms plain fried balls into decadent Banana Donut Holes, this duo adds a warm, crunchy exterior. Cinnamon enhances the banana’s natural flavors, while sugar provides that classic donut sparkle. I mix them right after frying while the holes are still warm for even adhesion. It’s a simple step that amps up the indulgence factor tremendously.
How to Make Banana Donut Holes
Prepare the Banana Batter
Mash your ripe bananas in a large bowl until smooth, then stir in the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract for that flavorful base. Next, whisk in the flour, baking powder, salt, and a splash of milk to form a thick, scoopable dough—don’t overmix, or your Banana Donut Holes might turn out tough. I like to let it sit for five minutes so the flavors meld; you’ll notice the banana aroma starting to fill the kitchen. This step sets the stage for the moist, banana-infused centers that make these treats so special. In total, it takes about 10 minutes, and trust me, the effort pays off in every delicious bite.
Shape and Fry the Donut Holes
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot to 350°F, then drop tablespoon-sized balls of batter into the hot oil using a cookie scoop for uniformity. Fry them in small batches for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and crispy outside—watch the sizzle and that inviting aroma wafting up. Flip gently with a slotted spoon to ensure even cooking, and drain on paper towels right away. The key here is maintaining that oil temperature; too low, and they’ll absorb grease instead of crisping up nicely. You’ll love how the Banana Donut Holes puff up beautifully, ready for their sweet coating.
Coat and Serve Your Creations
While still warm, roll the fried Banana Donut Holes in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for that signature crunch and sparkle. I find shaking them gently in a bag works wonders for even coverage without mess. Let them cool slightly on a wire rack before digging in—the heat helps the coating stick perfectly. These Banana Donut Holes are best enjoyed fresh, paired with a hot coffee for the ultimate treat. If you’re feeling fancy, dust with powdered sugar for extra flair. This final touch takes just minutes but elevates the whole experience.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk
- Pinch of salt
- Vegetable oil for frying
- 1/2 cup sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon for coating
Banana Donut Holes Instructions
- Mash bananas and mix with sugar, egg, and vanilla.
- Combine with dry ingredients and milk to form batter.
- Heat oil to 350°F and fry spoonfuls of batter until golden.
- Drain, then roll in cinnamon sugar while warm.
- Serve immediately for best taste.
Pro Tips for the Best Banana Donut Holes
Use Overripe Bananas: Opt for bananas that are heavily spotted; they’ll mash smoother and add more natural sweetness to your Banana Donut Holes without extra sugar.
Monitor Oil Temperature: Keep it steady at 350°F with a thermometer to avoid greasy or undercooked results in your batch.
Coat While Hot: Rolling the Banana Donut Holes in cinnamon sugar right out of the fryer ensures the coating sticks perfectly for maximum flavor.
You Must Know
- These Banana Donut Holes are naturally gluten-free adaptable with the right flour swap.
- Frying in small batches prevents overcrowding and sticking together.
- Ripe bananas reduce the need for added sugars, making them a bit healthier.
- They reheat well in an air fryer for that fresh-fried crispness.
How to Store Banana Donut Holes
To keep your Banana Donut Holes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days—they stay soft and flavorful thanks to the banana moisture. For longer storage, pop them in the fridge for up to a week, though the coating might soften a tad. Reheat gently in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes or use an air fryer to revive that crisp exterior without sogginess. I’ve found this method works wonders to enjoy leftover Banana Donut Holes just like the day you made them.
Customizing Your Banana Donut Holes
If you want to switch things up, try adding chocolate chips to the batter for a decadent twist on your Banana Donut Holes that kids adore. For a nutty variation, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans before frying—they add crunch without overpowering the banana base. If you’re watching sugar, use coconut sugar in the coating for a subtle caramel note. These tweaks keep the recipe flexible, and in my experience, experimenting leads to your favorite version of Banana Donut Holes. Check out our matcha milk bread turtles recipe for more fun baked goods inspiration.
What to Serve with Banana Donut Holes
These Banana Donut Holes pair beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee or tea to balance their sweetness with a bitter note. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or yogurt parfaits to add a refreshing contrast. If you’re feeling savory, try them with our best cheesy garlic bread for an unexpected sweet-savory combo. Don’t forget a glass of cold milk—it cuts through the richness perfectly. Overall, they shine as a standalone treat but elevate any spread.
Banana Donut Holes
These air fryer banana bread donut holes are easy 2-ingredient donut holes perfect for fixing your banana bread craving in less than 15 minutes.
Timing
Recipe Details
Ingredients
- 01 1/2 cup Banana ((1 large banana))
- 02 3/4 cup Self-Rising Flour ((note 1))
- 03 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon
- 04 1/4 cup Unrefined Sugar ((note 2))
- 05 2 tablespoons Coconut Oil ((melted, or melted vegan butter))
- 06 2-3 teaspoon Melted Coconut Oil
Instructions
Mash the banana into a smooth puree, make sure you get 1/2 cup or the donut batter won't come together with the same ratio of flour.
Add in the flour and stir with a rubber spatula at first, until it starts to form lumps. Now, oil your hands and knead with your slightly oiled hands to form a dough ball. The dough is sticky and moist, but that's normal don't over-add flour! If it sticks to the finger, keep kneading, using a bit of oil to smooth the dough and form a ball. Eventually, if it's really too moist add up to a max of 2-3 tablespoons of flour, not more, or the dough turns bready. You should work this dough like foccacia, using oil to avoid sticking to fingers and shape, but the dough should stay moist and elastic, not saturated by flour.
Grease your hand with melted coconut oil, grab about a tablespoon of dough, roll it into a ball, and place it on a plate covered with parchment paper. Repeat until all the dough has been turned into balls. Spray avocado oil on top of the balls.
Spray oil in the air fryer basket and place the oiled donut holes in the basket, leaving 1 inch (3 cm) apart as they expand.
Air fry at 350°F (180°C) for 6-7 minutes or until puffy and golden brown. They will have a rocky shape and be dry outside, and some will not be as round as balls; that's normal.
To make these banana bread balls taste like donuts, brush each warm ball with melted coconut oil using a pastry brush. Then, roll the warm, oiled balls into cinnamon sugar to coat evenly.
Serve warm immediately.
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NUTRITION FACTS (PER SERVING)
Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate. In cases where multiple ingredient alternatives are given, the first listed is calculated for nutrition. Garnishes and optional ingredients are not included.
Frequently Asked Questions About Banana Donut Holes
Can I make Banana Donut Holes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge, then fry fresh when ready. Just give it a quick stir before using to recombine any settled ingredients. This makes your Banana Donut Holes perfect for busy mornings without sacrificing quality.
How long does Banana Donut Holes last in the fridge?
Your Banana Donut Holes will stay good in the fridge for up to five days in an airtight container. The banana keeps them moist, but the coating might lose some crispness over time. Reheat to refresh them easily.
Can I bake Banana Donut Holes instead of frying?
Absolutely, preheat your oven to 375°F and bake scoops on a lined sheet for 12-15 minutes until golden. They won’t be as crispy, but you’ll get a lighter version of Banana Donut Holes with all the flavor. Brush with butter post-bake for extra indulgence.
Are Banana Donut Holes gluten-free?
They can be with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend substitution—these Banana Donut Holes hold up well to the swap. I recommend adding a bit of xanthan gum if your blend doesn’t include it for better texture. Test a small batch first to perfect it.
What if I don’t have a deep fryer for Banana Donut Holes?
No worries, use a heavy pot on the stovetop with enough oil to submerge the balls halfway. Monitor the heat closely for even frying. This method works great for homemade Banana Donut Holes every time.
How do I know when my Banana Donut Holes are done frying?
Look for a deep golden brown color and float to the surface—these cues mean your Banana Donut Holes are cooked through. Test one by cutting it open; the center should be soft and banana-scented without raw dough. It typically takes 4-5 minutes total per batch.
Can I add fillings to Banana Donut Holes?
Sure, after frying, use a piping bag to inject Nutella or cream cheese frosting inside for a stuffed treat. It’s a fun way to elevate your Banana Donut Holes without complicating the base recipe. Just be gentle to avoid bursting them.
Why are my Banana Donut Holes soggy?
Soggy Banana Donut Holes often come from oil that’s not hot enough—aim for 350°F to sear the outside quickly. Drain well on paper towels too. If it happens, next time fry in smaller batches for better results.
Final Thoughts
From the first mash of those ripe bananas to the last cinnamon-sugar-dusted bite, making these Banana Donut Holes has been a joy in my kitchen, and I know it’ll be the same for you. They’re the perfect blend of comfort and creativity, turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary. So, what are you waiting for? Grab those bananas and give this recipe a whirl—your taste buds will thank you. Share your creations with us; I’d love to hear how your batch of Banana Donut Holes turned out!