As a gentle breeze wafts through the kitchen, I can’t help but sneak a taste of these golden, fluffy 2-Ingredient Air Fryer Donut Bites. Made with just Greek yogurt and self-raising flour, they are the epitome of quick comfort, ready in mere minutes without any deep frying. Perfect for a busy morning or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, these delightful little treats are vegetarian-friendly and a guilt-free way to satisfy your donut cravings. The best part? They’re so simple, you can easily whip them up whenever the mood strikes. Ready to discover the delightful crunch of cinnamon-sugar coating paired with a pillowy inside? Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will have you forgetting all about the drive-thru!
Why Are These Donut Bites So Irresistible?
Simplicity at its finest: Made with just two ingredients, these Air Fryer Donut Bites require minimal effort, making them perfect for any home cook or busy parent.
Wholesome goodness: With Greek yogurt and self-raising flour, they're vegetarian-friendly and healthier than traditional fried donuts, so you can indulge without the guilt.
Quick and Easy: Whip up a batch in under 15 minutes, ideal for breakfast or an afternoon snack when cravings hit.
Versatile treat: Customize these bite-sized delights with a variety of coating options—try powdered sugar or mix in chocolate chips for added sweetness.
Delightful texture: Each bite features a fluffy, pillowy interior and a satisfyingly crisp cinnamon-sugar coating that's truly addictive!
Whether it's for brunch or a sweet snack, these donut bites promise to delight everyone at the table. Want to elevate your donut game even further? Check out our serving suggestions for enjoyable pairing ideas!
Air Fryer Donut Ingredients
For the Donut Bites
- Self-Raising Flour – Provides the perfect structure and lightness; if unavailable, mix all-purpose flour with baking powder for a similar texture.
- Sweetened Greek Yogurt – Adds moisture and a delightful tang; regular Greek yogurt works too, but consider adding a teaspoon of honey for sweetness.
For Coating
- Granulated Sugar – Essential for sweetening and enhancing flavor before coating; it's the star of your cinnamon-sugar blend.
- Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warm, aromatic notes to the sugar coating; use more or less to suit your taste!
- Melted Chocolate (optional) – An indulgent addition perfect for dipping these Air Fryer Donuts and elevating their sweetness.
Embrace the joy of creating these irresistible Air Fryer Donut Bites with such simple ingredients that promise to satisfy your cravings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Donut Bites
Step 1: Prepare Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of self-raising flour with 1 cup of sweetened Greek yogurt until a soft dough forms. Knead gently on a floured surface for about 1-2 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. This step is key for creating fluffy Air Fryer Donut Bites, so don’t skip it!
Step 2: Shape Dough
Divide the kneaded dough into two equal portions and roll each into logs approximately 1-inch thick. Cut the logs into small pieces, about 8-12 grams each, then roll them into balls. Ensuring uniform sizes helps the Air Fryer Donut Bites cook evenly, delivering that perfectly pillowy interior.
Step 3: Preheat Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 350°F (180°C) and preheat it for about 5 minutes. Brush the basket lightly with oil to prevent sticking, ensuring your Air Fryer Donut Bites come out beautifully golden without any mess. Preheating is essential for achieving that delightful outer crunch!
Step 4: Air Fry
Once preheated, toss the doughnut balls in melted butter, allowing them to coat evenly. Place them in the air fryer basket, making sure they have space to puff up. Air fry for 5 minutes or until they turn puffed and golden, keeping an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
Step 5: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
As soon as your Air Fryer Donut Bites are done and still warm, brush them with more melted butter. Then, roll each bite in a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, ensuring a sweet and aromatic coating. The warmth helps the sugar adhere better, creating that irresistible finish!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful 2-Ingredient Air Fryer Donut Bites are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance: simply mix together the self-raising flour and sweetened Greek yogurt, and knead it into a smooth ball. Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply shape the dough into balls and air fry as directed. To maintain quality, avoid coating them in cinnamon-sugar until just before serving to keep that delightful crispness intact. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have delicious donut bites ready to satisfy those cravings at a moment’s notice!
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 tasty.
Fridge: While not recommended, if needed, you can refrigerate them for up to 3 days. However, be aware that this may make them a bit tough.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze donut bites in a single layer on a tray before transferring them to an airtight container. They can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To restore warmth and fluffiness, reheat the frozen or refrigerated donuts in the air fryer at 350°F (180°C) for about 1-2 minutes before enjoying!
Air Fryer Donut Variations to Try
Feel free to explore these variations and make your Air Fryer Donut Bites uniquely yours!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute self-raising flour with a gluten-free blend for a deliciously inclusive treat. You'll enjoy the same great texture while catering to gluten sensitivities.
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Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative made from almond or coconut milk. This swap retains the creamy consistency without compromising flavor.
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Chocolate Lovers Delight: Add ½ cup of mini chocolate chips into the dough for a sweet twist. Melting chocolate on top after frying adds an indulgent touch.
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Nutty Surprise: Mix in ¼ cup of finely chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the batter before air frying. This variation gives each bite a delightful crunch alongside the fluffy interior.
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Fruity Flavor: Fold in ½ cup of mashed or pureed fruit, like bananas or strawberries, into the dough for a fruity flair. The sweetness and moisture enhance both texture and taste.
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Spicy Cinnamon: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cinnamon-sugar mix. This unexpected twist creates a fun flavor contrast that surprises the taste buds!
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Lemon Zest: Incorporate zest from one lemon into the dough for a zesty brightness that complements the sweetness beautifully. The citrus aroma elevates the classic donut flavor profile.
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Serve with Dips: Pair your donut bites with a variety of dips like caramel, peanut butter, or vanilla yogurt. These accompaniments add layers of flavor and make each bite even more enjoyable!
Once you’ve explored these variations, why not check out our serving suggestions for fun presentation ideas? There’s no end to the delicious ways you can enjoy these delightful treats!
What to Serve with 2-Ingredient Air Fryer Donut Bites
As you prepare to savor these delightful little treats, consider pairing them with flavors that elevate your experience to pure bliss.
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Creamy Vanilla Yogurt: This luscious dip adds a smooth, rich contrast, balancing the sweetness of the donut bites perfectly.
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries introduce a burst of freshness, offering a beautiful tartness that complements the warm, sugary donuts.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling warm, melted chocolate over the donut bites adds an indulgent touch, transforming each bite into a decadent, dessert experience.
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Sweetened Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream enhances the airy texture of the donuts, creating a light and fluffy contrast that’s irresistibly delightful.
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Cinnamon Coffee: Pair your donut bites with a warm cup of cinnamon-infused coffee for a comforting, cafe-style treat; the warm spices will echo the cinnamon-sugar coating.
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Caramel Dipping Sauce: For an added layer of flavor, serve with smooth, rich caramel for dipping, creating a delightful sweet-and-salty balance that enhances the joy of each bite.
Perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy afternoon snacks, these pairings will elevate your Air Fryer Donut Bites experience beyond the ordinary!
Expert Tips for Air Fryer Donut Bites
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Choose the Right Yogurt: Use thick Greek yogurt for the best dough texture. If using regular yogurt, drain it well or add a bit of sugar for sweetness.
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Preheat for Success: Always preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C) before cooking to ensure even baking and prevent any undercooked centers.
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Uniform Sizes Matter: Roll the dough into equal-sized balls to ensure even cooking. This will help each Air Fryer Donut bite bake perfectly and achieve that fluffy interior.
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Watch Closely: Keep an eye on your donuts as they air fry; they can brown quickly. Aim for a golden color but pull them out before they get too dark.
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Coat While Warm: Brush the donut bites with melted butter immediately after cooking, and then roll them in cinnamon sugar. Doing this while warm allows the coating to stick better.
Air Fryer Donut Bites Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best Greek yogurt for the donut bites?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for thick, sweetened Greek yogurt to provide the perfect moisture and tang. If you're using regular yogurt, make sure to drain any excess liquid or add a teaspoon of honey or sugar to sweeten the dough effectively.
How should I store leftover Air Fryer Donut Bites?
You can keep leftover Air Fryer Donut Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you refrigerate them (not recommended), they can last for about 3 days, but they'll likely be less fluffy. For longer storage, wrap them tightly and freeze them for up to 3 months!
Can I freeze Air Fryer Donut Bites?
Yes, you can freeze these delightful treats! Start by placing the cooked donut bites in a single layer on a tray, ensuring they aren't touching. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply pop them back into the air fryer at 350°F (180°C) for 1-2 minutes until they're warmed through and delightfully fluffy again.
What can I do if my donut bites are overcooked?
Very! If your Air Fryer Donut Bites come out overcooked, they may be tough or dry. Try reducing the air frying time by a minute for the next batch. Keeping an eye on them during cooking is key, as they can brown quickly. Remember, they should puff and turn golden but not dark. Pair any overly done bites with a drizzle of melted chocolate or a side of fruit to add moisture.
Are Air Fryer Donut Bites suitable for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! These donut bites are vegetarian-friendly and can be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free self-raising flour alternative. Always double-check the yogurt for any allergens, and feel free to adjust ingredients based on dietary needs or sugar preferences. Gluten-free and dairy-free substitutes work well too, making these treats adaptable for most diets.
How can I customize the flavors of my Air Fryer Donut Bites?
The more the merrier! You can easily customize your donut bites by mixing in chocolate chips into the dough before air frying. Alternatively, you can swap the cinnamon-sugar coating for powdered sugar or even drizzle some caramel sauce for an added touch of sweetness. Experimenting with spices like nutmeg or adding vanilla extract to your dough can create unique flavor profiles that satisfy every palate.
Air Fryer Donut Bites: Quick, Easy, and Irresistibly Delicious
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of self-raising flour with 1 cup of sweetened Greek yogurt until a soft dough forms.
- Knead gently on a floured surface for about 1-2 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Divide the kneaded dough into two equal portions and roll each into logs approximately 1-inch thick.
- Cut the logs into small pieces, about 8-12 grams each, then roll them into balls.
- Set your air fryer to 350°F (180°C) and preheat it for about 5 minutes.
- Brush the basket lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
- Once preheated, toss the doughnut balls in melted butter.
- Place them in the air fryer basket, making sure they have space to puff up.
- Air fry for 5 minutes or until they turn puffed and golden.
- Brush the cooked donut bites with melted butter and roll them in a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
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