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Banana Donuts Air Fryer: A Healthy and Easy Delight

james walker photo
Published : November 30, 2025

“Savor the sweetness of ripe bananas in these delightful, guilt-free air fryer donuts!”

Banana donuts in the air fryer are a beautiful way to indulge in a sweet treat without the guilt. With just a handful of ingredients, these donuts can be whipped up in no time, making them perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. The aroma of bananas and vanilla wafting through your kitchen will invite you to enjoy some deliciousness paired with a hot cup of coffee or tea. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be dreaming of these fluffy delights!

Air fryer banana donuts served on a plate with chocolate drizzle

Why You Should Make Banana Donuts Air Fryer Right Now

These banana donuts are the ideal snack for any season, but especially great for wholesome breakfasts!

With each tender bite of banana donuts, you’ll discover why this recipe is a must-try right now. First, they’re incredibly easy to make and involve minimal prep time, perfect for busy mornings or last-minute dessert plans. Also, they are a healthier alternative compared to traditional fried donuts, being air-fried instead, which cuts down on excess oil yet retains that soft and fluffy texture we all love. Additionally, they are a fantastic way to avoid food waste, turning overripe bananas into a scrumptious treat. Pair these donuts with a cup of tea or coffee, and enjoy the sweet moments with family! Check out this recipe for more banana goodness!

How Is This Banana Donuts Air Fryer Recipe Unique?

This recipe offers a lighter, healthier take on traditional donuts that’s mighty satisfying!

Air frying for a guilt-free treat

What sets these banana donuts apart, aside from the air fryer method, is the simplicity of their ingredients. Unlike conventional donuts that often call for heavy frying, this recipe uses self-rising flour to allow the donuts to fluff beautifully in the air fryer. The mere use of a couple of ripe bananas gives the donuts enough natural sweetness, eliminating the need for a ton of added sugar.

Flavored with warmth

The addition of vanilla extract and cinnamon (should you choose to include it) enhances the flavor, giving these donuts an aromatic and inviting essence that dances on your palate. The cinnamon is an optional choice, but it adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile. It’s worth considering if you enjoy those cozy spices!

Perfectly shaped snack

With minimal effort, your donuts will come out in adorable donut holes instead of traditional rings, making them extremely convenient for snacking. This unconventional shape not only boosts their fun factor but also allows you to enjoy them in bites rather than large slices! For further tips on air frying techniques, check out this bbc article.

Ingredients and Preparation Overview

Gather these simple ingredients for a delightful treat in no time!

IngredientQuantity
Ripe bananas2
Self-rising flour1 cup
Sugar1/4 cup
Milk1/4 cup
Egg1
Vanilla extract1 teaspoon
Cinnamon (optional)1/2 teaspoon
Cooking spray or oil for air fryingAs needed

To make these donuts truly nutritious, I recommend making two substitutions: opt for almond milk instead of regular dairy milk if you have lactose intolerance, providing a nutty flavor while catering to any dietary preferences. You can also swap regular sugar for coconut sugar or a sugar substitute to reduce the overall calorie count. Check the nutrition labels on alternative sweeteners for suitable options!

A-neatly-arranged-display-of-all-the-ingredients-needed-to-make-banana-donut

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Banana Donuts in an Air Fryer

Follow these simple steps to make delicious air fryer banana donuts.

Step 1: Mash the Bananas

Begin by peeling your ripe bananas and placing them in a mixing bowl. Use a potato masher or a fork to thoroughly mash the bananas until they are smooth and creamy, as the mashed bananas will be the primary moisture and sweetness in the donuts.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

Next, whisk in the sugar, milk, egg, and vanilla extract until everything is well incorporated. Make sure there are no lumps remaining! You want a uniform mixture to ensure even baking.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Slowly incorporate the self-rising flour into the banana mixture. Mix until just combined to avoid over-mixing, which can result in tougher donuts. The dough should be thick yet still slightly pourable, perfect for dropping into the air fryer.

Prep TimeCook TimeStorage
10 minutes8-10 minutesKeep in an airtight container for up to 3 days

Before you begin frying, preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for optimal cooking. Using a spoon or piping bag, drop small portions of the batter into the air fryer basket, shaping them into donut-like holes. Be careful not to overcrowd the basket as they need room to cook evenly! Lightly spray with cooking oil to achieve that delightful golden crust.

Delicious Banana Donuts Air Fryer freshly cooked, showcasing their golden-brown color and fluffy texture

Delicious Variations and Serving Suggestions

Customizing these banana donuts is easy and fun!

Diet Swap

If you’re looking to make a gluten-free version of these donuts, feel free to substitute the self-rising flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that it contains a leavening agent to mimic the rise you would normally achieve with self-rising flour.

Flavor Variation

Add excitement to your donuts by incorporating chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits into the batter for added texture and flavors. Imagine the rich taste of melted chocolate highlighting the sweetness of ripe bananas, absolutely heavenly!

For those who love toppings, consider rolling your donuts in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar right after they come out of the air fryer for a delightful twist! You can also drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the warm donuts.

Serving Idea

These banana donuts are incredibly versatile! Serve them as they are, pair them with some fresh fruit, or dollop on a bit of yogurt for a delightful breakfast treat. For an extra touch of indulgence, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream to turn them into a fantastic dessert!

Suggested PairingsTips
Fresh fruitConsider local seasonal fruits like strawberries or blueberries.
Coffee or TeaPair with a strong cup of coffee to cut the natural sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This air fryer banana donut recipe is a fantastic, guilt-free treat that will leave you and your loved ones feeling satisfied and happy. With easy prep and delicious flavors, it’s a wonderful way to use overripe bananas while indulging your sweet tooth secretly. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media, you can inspire your friends with this cozy recipe! And for more delicious recipes, be sure to check out my Pinterest page for fun ideas for your next baking adventure! Follow me here!

FAQ

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen bananas! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

How do I store leftover banana donuts?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Alternatively, they can be refrigerated for a longer shelf life.

Can I make these donuts vegan?

Absolutely! Just replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg, and use plant-based milk to keep them vegan-friendly.

How do I know when the donuts are fully cooked?

You can check if they’re fully cooked by inserting a toothpick into the center of a donut. If it comes out clean, they are ready!

What can I do with leftover banana donuts if I have some?

Leftover banana donuts can be frozen for later use! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to two months.

Print
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"Savor the sweetness of ripe bananas in these delightful, guilt-free air fryer donuts!" Banana Donuts Air Fryer

Banana Donuts Air Fryer: A Healthy and Easy Delight

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A quick and guilt-free recipe for fluffy banana donuts made in the air fryer, perfect for breakfast or snacks.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 Ripe bananas
  • 1 cup Self-rising flour
  • 1/4 cup Sugar
  • 1/4 cup Milk
  • 1 Egg
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon (optional)
  • Cooking spray or oil for air frying (As needed)

Instructions

  1. Mash the ripe bananas in a mixing bowl until smooth and creamy.
  2. Whisk in the sugar, milk, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  3. Slowly incorporate the self-rising flour into the banana mixture until just combined.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  5. Drop small portions of the batter into the air fryer basket, shaping them into donut-like holes.
  6. Lightly spray with cooking oil and air fry for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.

Notes

For a vegan version, replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia seed egg, and use plant-based milk. To reduce calories, opt for coconut sugar instead of regular sugar.

  • Author: James Walker
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 10g
  • Sodium: 40mg
  • Fat: 2g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 37g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

About the Author

james walker photo

James Walker is a CookMinutes recipe developer specializing in quick, efficient, one-pan meals. His practical, time-saving cooking style helps busy home cooks prepare flavorful dishes with simple ingredients and minimal effort.

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