Name: Air Fryer Donut Bites: Fluffy Treats in Just Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 cup self-raising flour; 5 oz sweetened Greek yogurt (Can substitute with plain Greek yogurt for less sweetness.); 2 tbsp granulated sugar (Can be replaced with a sugar substitute if desired.); 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (Consider using vanilla sugar instead for a twist.); 1 tbsp melted chocolate (For drizzling on top.)

As the aroma of warm cinnamon sugar wafted through my kitchen, I couldn’t help but smile at my latest creation: Air Fryer Donut Bites. These delightful little treats, crafted from just two simple ingredients, have quickly become my go-to dessert for satisfying late-night cravings or unexpected guests. Not only are they incredibly easy to whip up, but their light and fluffy texture is perfect for sharing or indulging all on your own! Plus, with the air fryer doing the heavy lifting, you get that irresistible crunch without the fuss of frying. Whether you’re a busy home chef or simply looking for a quick and scrumptious way to elevate your snack game, these donut bites are a must-try. Ready to transform your dessert routine? Let’s dive into this delectable recipe!

Why are these donut bites a must-try?

Simple, Quick Preparation: With just two ingredients, these donut bites come together in minutes, making them perfect for last-minute cravings.
Irresistibly Fluffy Texture: They are light and airy, offering a delightful bite that melts in your mouth.
Crispy Coating: The cinnamon-sugar coating adds a sweet crunch, elevating the flavor profile to a whole new level.
Versatile Options: Customize with mix-ins like chocolate chips or glaze them with icing for a fun twist.
Perfect for Sharing: These delicious bites are great for gatherings, ensuring you have a crowd-pleaser on hand.

For an even more unique treat, consider pairing them with your favorite beverage, like Butter Chicken Bites for a satisfying snack experience!

Air Fryer Donut Bites Ingredients

• To satisfy your sweet cravings!

For the Dough

Self-Raising Flour – Provides structure and fluffiness for the donut bites. Note: To make self-raising flour, add 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt per cup of all-purpose flour.
Sweetened Greek Yogurt – Adds moisture and a hint of sweetness, ensuring a tender texture. You can substitute with plain Greek yogurt for less sweetness.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness for the cinnamon-sugar coating. Can be replaced with a sugar substitute if desired.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds aromatic flavor to the sugar coating. For a twist, consider using vanilla sugar instead.

Optional Additions

Melted Chocolate – Perfect for drizzling on top, enhancing the flavor profile of your Air Fryer Donut Bites. This adds a luxurious touch for chocolate lovers.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Donut Bites

Step 1: Make the Dough
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of self-raising flour with 5 oz of sweetened Greek yogurt. Stir until a soft, sticky dough forms. Use your hands to knead the dough gently for about 1 minute until it becomes smooth and cohesive. Avoid over-kneading to maintain the light texture of your air fryer donut bites.

Step 2: Shape the Donut Bites
Divide the smooth dough into two portions. Roll each portion into logs about 1 inch thick, using your hands on a clean surface. Cut the logs into small pieces weighing 8-12g each, then roll each piece into a ball. These little bites should be just the right size to achieve that delightful fluffy texture when cooked.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C) for about 5 minutes. While it preheats, lightly brush the air fryer basket with a bit of oil to prevent sticking. Once ready, carefully arrange the shaped donut bites in the basket, making sure to leave some space between each to allow for even air circulation.

Step 4: Air Fry the Doughnut Bites
Air fry the donut balls at 350°F (180°C) for approximately 5 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they puff up and turn golden brown. They should look lightly browned and feel fluffy to the touch—this is how you’ll know your air fryer donut bites are cooked to perfection!

Step 5: Finish with Cinnamon Sugar
Immediately remove the warm donut bites from the air fryer and toss them gently in melted butter. Then roll each one in a mixture of cinnamon and granulated sugar until evenly coated, ensuring that they are all well covered in the sweet and fragrant mixture.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your air fryer donut bites are now ready to delight your taste buds! Serve them warm as is, or drizzle with melted chocolate for an extra indulgent treat. These bites are great for sharing during gatherings or simply enjoying as a sweet snack any time of the day.

Storage Tips for Air Fryer Donut Bites

Room Temperature: Keep leftover air fryer donut bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their delicious softness.
Fridge: If you wish to store them longer, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week, but be aware they may lose some fluffiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donut bites in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To bring back their delightful texture, reheat frozen donut bites in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F (180°C) or in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.

Air Fryer Donut Bites Variations

Feel free to dance with flavors and textures, making these donut bites your own delightful creation!

Chocolatey Delight: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a rich, sweet twist that chocolate lovers will adore. Chocolate and cinnamon create a lovely harmony in each bite!
Fruity Fun: Use flavored Greek yogurt, such as blueberry or strawberry, to infuse a fruity essence into your donut bites. This simple swap adds a burst of freshness to your treats!
Glazed Goodness: Mix icing sugar with a splash of milk to drizzle a sweet glaze over the warm donut bites. The glaze offers a beautiful shine and extra sweetness, elevating the flavor profile!
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the dough for a delightful texture and added nuttiness. This variation brings a wholesome crunch that contrasts the soft donut interior.
Spicy Surprise: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the cinnamon sugar. It’s an unexpected kick that will surprise and delight your taste buds!
Baking Twist: Prefer baking? Shape the dough as before and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 10-12 minutes for a less-fried version. Perfect for when you want the same fluffy texture but a different cooking method.
Dairy-Free: Substitute sweetened Greek yogurt with almond or coconut yogurt for a creamy, dairy-free alternative. You’ll enjoy the same luscious texture while catering to your dietary preferences.
Mini Muffins: Pour the donut mixture into a mini muffin pan for a fun and unique presentation. Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 10-12 minutes for a twist on the classic shape!

Feel free to enjoy these warm with your favorite drink, like my Butter Chicken Bites, turning snack time into a delightful experience!

Expert Tips for Air Fryer Donut Bites

Kneading Technique: Avoid over-kneading the dough, as it can lead to dense donut bites. Just a gentle knead will keep them fluffy and soft.
Preheating Matters: Always preheat your air fryer for consistent cooking; it helps achieve that perfect golden color on your donut bites.
Spacing is Key: Ensure the doughnut balls are spaced apart in the air fryer basket. This allows for proper air circulation and even cooking.
Sugar Alternatives: If you’re watching your sugar intake, feel free to use sugar substitutes for the cinnamon-sugar coating without sacrificing taste.
Baking Option: If you prefer baking, place the dough bites on a lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 10-12 minutes for a healthier alternative to air frying.

What to Serve with Easy Air Fryer 2-Ingredient Donut Bites

Indulge in a delightful experience as you pair these fluffy bites with delicious sides and treats.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries and citrus brightens the plate, offering a refreshing contrast to the warm sweetness of the donut bites.
Hot Chocolate: Creamy hot chocolate creates a cozy pairing that enhances the cinnamon-sugar flavor and brings warmth on cool evenings.
Coffee: A rich, robust cup of coffee accentuates the sweet warmth of your donut bites, making for the perfect morning or afternoon treat.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream elevates your dessert experience, adding a smooth and creamy texture that complements the crisply coated bites.
Chocolate Drizzle: Add a decadent touch by drizzling melted chocolate over the bites—its rich flavor pairs beautifully with the cinnamon-sugar crust.
Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible mix of warm and cold temperatures, creating a delightful dessert fusion.
Maple Syrup: A drizzle of maple syrup introduces a sweet, earthy flavor that pairs simply but exquisitely with the fluffy donut bites.
Sliced Almonds: Sprinkle toasted sliced almonds for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, which beautifully contrasts the softness of the bites.
Caramel Sauce: A warm caramel drizzle adds a luxurious finish, enriching each bite with its sweet, buttery goodness for an unforgettable treat.

Make Ahead Options

These Air Fryer Donut Bites are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the self-raising flour and sweetened Greek yogurt, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, shape the donut bites and refrigerate them for up to 3 days before cooking. To maintain their fluffy texture, avoid over-kneading and ensure they are well-covered while stored. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply preheat your air fryer, air fry for about 5 minutes, and finish by tossing in melted butter and cinnamon sugar for those light and delightful treats you crave!

Air Fryer Donut Bites Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for Air Fryer Donut Bites?
I recommend using self-raising flour for these donut bites, as it provides the necessary structure and fluffiness. If you don’t have self-raising flour on hand, you can easily make it by combining 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder and ¼ teaspoon of salt.

How should I store leftover Air Fryer Donut Bites?
Store your leftover donut bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft. If you’d like to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, just note they may lose some fluffiness.

Can I freeze Air Fryer Donut Bites?
Absolutely! To freeze, arrange the donut bites in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until firm. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheating them in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes at 350°F (180°C) works wonderfully!

What should I do if my donut bites turn out too dense?
If your donut bites are dense, it may be due to over-kneading the dough. Try to knead gently for no more than a minute and avoid compressing the dough too much when forming the balls. Also, ensure that your air fryer is preheated properly to help achieve that light and airy consistency.

Are there any dietary considerations for Air Fryer Donut Bites?
Yes! If you’re concerned about sugar intake, you can easily substitute granulated sugar with a sugar alternative for the cinnamon-sugar coating. Additionally, for a lower-calorie option, you can use plain Greek yogurt instead of sweetened yogurt. Just remember that these changes may slightly alter the taste, but they’ll still be delicious!

Can pets eat Air Fryer Donut Bites?
While the donut bites are made from safe ingredients for humans, they are not suitable for pets, particularly due to the sugar and cinnamon content. It’s best to keep these delightful treats for yourself!