Air Fryer Banana Donut Holes

Air Fryer Banana Donut Holes are soft, fluffy, and incredibly easy to make at home. They come together quickly with simple ingredients, yet they deliver that bakery-style texture everyone loves. Even better, once they’re coated with warm cinnamon sugar, they become completely irresistible and perfect for sharing.

Because ripe bananas naturally add sweetness and moisture, these donut holes stay tender inside while developing a lightly golden exterior in the air fryer. As a result, you get a lighter alternative to fried donuts without sacrificing flavor. Meanwhile, the classic cinnamon sugar coating adds that nostalgic, cozy finish people instantly crave.

Interestingly, donut holes originally came from the center of traditional donuts. However, over time, they became a favorite treat on their own because they cook faster and are easier to enjoy.

So if you want a quick dessert that feels special, these banana donut holes with cinnamon sugar are a must-try.

Recipe Yield: 18–22 donut holes

INGREDIENTS

1 cup very ripe bananas, mashed (about 2 medium)
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
1/3 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp melted butter
1 large egg

Cinnamon Sugar Coating

3 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
2 tbsp melted butter

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the wet mixture:
In a bowl mash the bananas until smooth and lump-free. Then add egg, milk, vanilla extract, melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Whisk until fully smooth and slightly creamy.

2. Mix the dry ingredients:
In a separate bowl whisk flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Then gently fold into the wet mixture until a thick, scoopable batter forms. It should hold its shape when scooped, not spread.

3. Adjust if needed:
If batter feels too loose, add 1–2 tbsp flour. If too thick, add 1 tbsp milk. This ensures perfect texture every time.

4. Preheat the air fryer:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly grease the basket.

5. Shape the donut holes:
Using a small cookie scoop, drop rounded portions into the basket. Keep space between each for airflow.

6. Air fry:
Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Donut holes should be golden and firm on the outside with a soft spring-back center. If needed, cook an extra 1–2 minutes.

7. Coat in cinnamon sugar:
While still warm, brush lightly with melted butter. Then roll in cinnamon sugar until fully coated.

8. Serve warm:
Serve immediately for best texture. Inside should be soft, fluffy, and fully set—not wet.

HELPFUL TIPS TO PERFECT THIS RECIPE

• Use very ripe bananas: The darker the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the donut holes will be. Additionally, they create a softer and more tender crumb.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Cook in batches if needed. This ensures proper airflow, so the donut holes cook evenly and develop a golden exterior.
• Coat while warm for best results: Roll the donut holes in cinnamon sugar immediately after brushing with butter. Because they are warm, the coating sticks better and creates that perfect bakery-style finish.