2-Ingredient Banana Donut Holes

Name: 2-Ingredient Banana Donut Holes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup mashed ripe banana (about 1 large banana); ¾ cup self-rising flour; 2 tablespoons melted coconut oil or vegan butter (for coating); ¼ cup sugar; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, pinch of salt, 1–2 tablespoons coconut sugar for sweeter dough

Jump to Recipe

I remember one rainy Sunday afternoon when I was craving something sweet but didn’t want to spend an hour baking. I had one ripe banana sitting on the counter, and that sparked the idea—what can I whip up with just one banana? That’s when I stumbled upon banana donut holes. This recipe is now one of my favorite go-tos when I need something quick, comforting, and homemade.

These 2-Ingredient Banana Donut Holes are perfect for beginner cooks. They’re made with just two primary ingredients, take less than 20 minutes from start to finish, and require no special equipment or culinary expertise. Plus, they’re air-fried, so they’re lower in fat, and you can easily make them vegan and dairy-free. Whether you’re baking with kids, tackling your first solo recipe, or simply in need of a fast treat, this is a recipe you’ll keep coming back to.

Why This Recipe is Special

It uses just two main ingredients.
You don’t need a mixer or even a donut pan.

It’s air-fried, making it a healthier option.
The recipe is completely vegan and dairy-free.
It’s a blank canvas—customizable with your favorite flavors.

Ready in under 15 minutes, perfect for last-minute cravings.

Ingredients and Preparation

Ripe Banana: Acts as both a sweetener and a binder. The banana gives these donut holes their moisture and natural sweetness. It’s best to use very ripe bananas with lots of brown spots for the richest flavor.
Self-Rising Flour: This simplifies the process by including baking powder already mixed in. It helps the donut holes puff up and develop a light texture. If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can use all-purpose flour with two teaspoons of baking powder added.

Optional Flavor Boosters:
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth and aroma.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances sweetness and depth.
- Salt: Balances and sharpens flavors.
- Brown or Coconut Sugar: For those who prefer a sweeter bite.
For Coating:
- Coconut Oil or Vegan Butter: Helps sugar and spices stick to the warm donut holes.
- Cinnamon and Sugar: Mimics the classic donut coating.

Ingredient Flexibility:

Replace self-rising flour with a gluten-free blend + baking powder.
Swap coconut oil with avocado oil or vegan butter.
Use a sugar substitute like Monk fruit sweetener for a low-sugar option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1
Start by mashing one large ripe banana with a fork until it becomes a smooth puree. Make sure you measure out exactly ½ cup of mashed banana—too little or too much can throw off the dough’s balance.

Step 2
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed banana and ¾ cup of self-rising flour. Stir the mixture using a rubber spatula or spoon until lumps form.

Step 3
Grease your hands lightly with oil, then knead the mixture gently until it forms a smooth dough. It should be slightly sticky but elastic. Avoid adding extra flour unless it’s absolutely too wet.

Step 4
Portion out the dough and roll it into small, golf-ball-sized rounds. You should be able to make about 8 donut holes. Place them on a parchment-lined plate or tray.

Step 5
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (180°C). Spray the air fryer basket with oil and place the donut holes inside, leaving about an inch between each ball. Spray a bit more oil on top.

Step 6
Air fry the donut holes for 6–7 minutes. They should puff up and appear dry and rocky on the outside—don’t worry, that’s normal.

Step 7
While they’re still warm, brush them with melted coconut oil or vegan butter. Immediately roll them in a mix of sugar and cinnamon for a classic donut finish.

Beginner Tips and Notes

If your dough is too sticky: Use a little oil on your hands instead of flour to prevent sticking.
If the donut holes don’t puff up: Double-check the freshness of your baking powder (if using all-purpose flour).

No air fryer?: You can bake them in a conventional oven at 350°F for 12–15 minutes, turning halfway through.
Want more flavor?: Mix in chopped nuts, dairy-free chocolate chips, or a bit of nutmeg.

Serving Suggestions

Best Dips: Serve with a side of vegan chocolate ganache, chia jam, or warm date caramel for dipping.

As a Dessert Platter: Pair with fruit skewers and plant-based yogurt for a mini dessert board.
Leftover Storage: Store any extras in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes to refresh them.

Conclusion

Whether you’re brand new to cooking or just love an effortless recipe, these 2-Ingredient Banana Donut Holes are a fantastic place to start. They’re deliciously simple, fun to make, and endlessly adaptable. If you try them, let me know how they turned out in the comments—what did you add or change? I’d love to hear your twist!

FAQ About Banana Donut Holes

Can I bake these donut holes instead of air frying?

Yes, you can bake them in a conventional oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 12–15 minutes. Just be sure to turn them halfway through to ensure even baking. The texture might be slightly less crisp on the outside but still delicious.

Can I make these banana donut holes gluten-free?

Absolutely. You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend and add two teaspoons of baking powder if it’s not self-rising. Just note that the texture may vary slightly depending on the brand of flour.

Do I have to use coconut oil for coating?

Not at all. You can use melted vegan butter or avocado oil if you prefer. The goal is to have a bit of fat to help the cinnamon-sugar mixture stick to the donut holes after cooking.

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