As I wandered through a bustling farmer’s market, the sweet aroma of freshly baked goods wafted through the air, tempting me to indulge. But who says you can only enjoy delightful treats like donuts from a shop? I discovered a way to whip up light and fluffy Air Fryer Donut Bites using just two ingredients: self-raising flour and Greek yogurt! Not only are these delightful bites super quick to prepare, but they also deliver a healthier twist on a classic dessert. Coated in a warm cinnamon-sugar blend, they’re perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth guilt-free. Curious how such simplicity can lead to such incredible satisfaction? Let’s dive into this easy recipe that proves homemade desserts can be both fun and rewarding!
Why Make Air Fryer Donut Bites?
Light and Fluffy: These donut bites are guaranteed to be fluffy and airy, giving you that delightful texture without the guilt!
Quick and Easy: With just two ingredients, you can whip these up faster than a trip to the donut shop!
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Enjoy a sweet treat that’s significantly lower in calories compared to traditional fried donuts.
Versatile Flavor Options: Feel free to switch up the spices or yogurt flavors for a unique twist—imagine pumpkin spice or almond extract adding a personal touch!
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether as a snack or dessert, these bites are fabulous with a cup of coffee or tea while entertaining friends or simply pampering yourself.
Try pairing them with Air Fryer Apple for a delightful mix of flavors!
Air Fryer Donut Bites Ingredients
For the Dough
• Self-raising flour – Adds structure and fluffiness; for a homemade version, mix 1 ½ tsp baking powder and ¼ tsp salt per cup of all-purpose flour.
• Sweetened Greek yogurt – Provides moisture and sweetness; for a lighter flavor, opt for plain or vanilla-flavored yogurt.
For the Glaze
• Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the coating; adjust to taste based on your preference for sweetness.
• Ground cinnamon – Brings warmth and flavor to the topping; feel free to substitute with nutmeg for a unique twist.
• Melted chocolate – An optional drizzle for extra indulgence; use dark, milk, or white chocolate as per your taste.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Donut Bites
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine self-raising flour and sweetened Greek yogurt, mixing until a soft, cohesive dough forms. You should knead gently for about 1-2 minutes until the texture is smooth and pliable, being cautious not to over-knead, as this will affect the fluffiness of your Air Fryer Donut Bites.
Step 2: Shape the Donuts
Divide the dough into small portions, each weighing around 8-12 grams, and roll them into neat balls. Ensure each ball is evenly sized to promote even cooking in the air fryer. Place the shaped donut bites on a lightly floured surface as you prepare to air-fry them, maintaining their roundness and integrity.
Step 3: Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure it’s hot enough for the donut bites. Lightly oil the air fryer basket to prevent sticking, then carefully place the donut balls in a single layer, leaving space between each one. Air fry them for 5 minutes, monitoring for a golden color and puffed appearance.
Step 4: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
Once the donut bites are finished air frying and are golden brown, remove them from the air fryer while they’re still warm. In a small bowl, melt some butter, then toss the donut bites in the melted butter before rolling them in a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This coating gives them a delightful sweetness and warmth.
Step 5: Serve
For the best experience, savor your Air Fryer Donut Bites fresh from the fryer! Arrange them on a plate for a beautiful presentation, and consider drizzling with melted chocolate for an indulgent twist. These fluffy treats are fantastic on their own or paired with a warm cup of coffee or tea for the perfect snack.
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Donut Bites are a fantastic choice for those busy weeknights when you want to enjoy something sweet without the stress! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and cooking. Simply mix the self-raising flour and Greek yogurt until a soft dough forms, and then store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, just take out the dough, shape it into balls, and proceed with air frying. This method ensures that your donut bites remain just as fluffy and delicious, giving you the satisfaction of a freshly made treat with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Air Fryer Donut Bites
Room Temperature: Store leftover Air Fryer Donut Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and fluffy.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donut bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat from frozen in the air fryer at 350°F (180°C) for about 3-4 minutes until warm and slightly crisp.
Avoid Refrigeration: To maintain their delightful texture, avoid refrigerating the donut bites, as it can make them overly moist and less fluffy.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Donut Bites
• Don’t Over-Knead: Gently knead the dough just until smooth; over-kneading will result in tougher donut bites, losing that airy texture you crave.
• Perfect Sizing: Aim for uniform donut balls (about 8-12 grams each) to ensure even cooking in the air fryer for your Air Fryer Donut Bites.
• Oil the Basket: Always lightly oil the air fryer basket before adding your donut bites to avoid sticking, ensuring they come out perfectly golden.
• Watch the Time: Keep a close eye on those last few minutes; air frying can vary, so check for puffiness and a golden color to avoid overcooking.
• Flavor Experimentation: Feel free to substitute Greek yogurt with flavored or dairy-free options; exploring different spices can also add exciting new flavors to your donut bites.
Air Fryer Donut Bites Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your Air Fryer Donut Bites with these fun and tasty variations!
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Dairy-Free: Swap Greek yogurt for your favorite dairy-free yogurt for a lactose-free option. Coconut yogurt adds a lovely tropical twist!
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Flavor Boost: Incorporate extracts such as vanilla or almond into the dough for a fragrant enhancement. Just a few drops can elevate the taste dramatically.
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Pumpkin Spice: Replace the ground cinnamon with pumpkin spice for a seasonal touch. This warms your heart and fills your kitchen with a comforting aroma.
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Sweet and Savory: Add a sprinkle of sea salt to your cinnamon-sugar mixture for a sweet-salty contrast that will have you returning for seconds.
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Mini Donuts: Use a mini donut pan with your air fryer for adorable donut shapes. Perfect for bite-sized snacking or entertaining guests with cute treats!
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Chocolate Drizzle: For an extra indulgent experience, drizzle melted chocolate over the warm donut bites. Choose dark, milk, or white chocolate depending on your preference.
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Nutty Add-In: Fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the dough for added texture and taste. This gives each bite a delightful crunch.
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Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the cinnamon sugar for a surprising kick. The contrast of heat and sweetness creates a unique flavor profile.
Feel inspired to try these variations? You might just find your new favorite twist on the classic donut! And if you’re looking for complementary treats, consider pairing these with some delicious Air Fryer Pretzel bites or a warm batch of Air Fryer Apple delights for the ultimate snack table!
What to Serve with 2 Ingredient Air Fryer Donut Bites
Elevate your dessert experience by pairing these fluffy bites with delightful accompaniments that bring comfort and joy.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the sweetness of the donut bites.
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Rich Coffee: Enjoy a warm cup of your favorite brew. The bitterness of the coffee perfectly balances the sugary goodness of the donut bites.
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Creamy Yogurt Dip: Whip up a light and tangy yogurt dip to enhance the texture, offering a delightful contrast to the sweetness.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle melted chocolate over the donut bites for a luxurious touch that invites indulgence in each bite.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold creaminess of vanilla ice cream makes a delightful pairing, turning your donut bites into an irresistible dessert sundae.
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Spiced Chai Latte: A warm chai latte infused with aromatic spices amplifies the comforting essence of the donut bites, making for a cozy treat on a chilly day.
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Maple Syrup: A drizzle of rich maple syrup brings a sweet, earthy flavor that enhances the overall enjoyment of your light donuts.
Each of these pairings, crafted with care, offers an experience that lingers on the palate, turning simple moments into golden memories.
Air Fryer Donut Bites Recipe FAQs
What type of Greek yogurt is best to use?
I recommend using sweetened Greek yogurt for these Air Fryer Donut Bites, as it provides the perfect balance of moisture and sweetness. However, if you prefer a lighter option, plain or vanilla-flavored yogurt works wonderfully too, just keep the sugar in the glaze in mind.
How should I store leftover Air Fryer Donut Bites?
Store any leftover Air Fryer Donut Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their fluffy texture. Just remember, avoid refrigeration, as it can make them become overly moist and lose that delightful airy quality!
Can I freeze Air Fryer Donut Bites?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the donut bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until they’re firm, about an hour. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. These delightful bites will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, just reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer at 350°F (180°C) for about 3-4 minutes.
What should I do if my donut bites are not fluffy?
If your Air Fryer Donut Bites are not as fluffy as expected, check that you didn’t over-knead the dough during preparation, as this can lead to denser bites. Also, ensure that you’re using fresh self-raising flour, as older flour may not provide the right leavening. If they appear too dense, you can add a bit of baking powder next time to boost the fluffiness.
Are there any dietary considerations I should take into account?
When making Air Fryer Donut Bites, be mindful of any allergies present in your ingredients. The key ingredients are fairly standard, but if you’re preparing these for a gathering, consider the possibility of gluten or dairy allergies. You can use a gluten-free flour blend and dairy-free yogurt options to accommodate different dietary needs. Enjoy the more the merrier atmosphere by making these delightful treats available for everyone!
Air Fryer Donut Bites: Light, Fluffy & Guilt-Free Treats
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine self-raising flour and sweetened Greek yogurt, mixing until a soft, cohesive dough forms. Knead gently for 1-2 minutes until the texture is smooth.
- Divide the dough into portions weighing around 8-12 grams, rolling them into neat balls. Place on a lightly floured surface.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C) for about 5 minutes. Lightly oil the basket, then place the donut balls in a single layer. Air fry for 5 minutes, monitoring for golden color.
- Once golden brown, remove the donut bites while warm. Toss in melted butter, then roll in a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Serve fresh from the fryer on a plate, optionally drizzled with melted chocolate. Enjoy them as a snack or dessert!
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