Name: Indulgent Air Fryer Donut Bites with Cinnamon-Sugar Coating
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Self-Raising Flour (Can be substituted with all-purpose flour and baking powder (1.5 tsp per cup)); 1 cup Sweetened Greek Yogurt (Plain Greek yogurt works too if mixed with honey or sugar); 2 tablespoons Butter (Melted; margarine can be used as a substitute); 1 tablespoon Cinnamon (Alternatively, nutmeg can be used); 1/2 cup Sugar (Coconut sugar can be used for a healthier alternative)

The sweet smell of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen takes me back to my childhood, where every day began with a little indulgence. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Light and Fluffy Air Fryer Donut Bites with Cinnamon-Sugar Coating—a delightful treat that captures that nostalgic warmth but with a healthier twist. It’s a breeze to whip up, requiring minimal ingredients and zero messy deep-frying, making it perfect for those busy mornings or spontaneous gatherings. These little bites are not only a quick snack but also a fun way to impress guests with something homemade. With the crispy exterior and fluffy interior, you'll be left wondering why you ever settled for store-bought treats. Ready to elevate your snacking game? Keep scrolling for the easy steps to create your own delicious moments!

Why are These Donut Bites So Irresistible?

Fluffy Texture: These Air Fryer Donut Bites are light and airy, ensuring each bite melts in your mouth.

Quick & Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have these treats ready to go in under 20 minutes!

Healthy Twist: Say goodbye to deep-fried guilt—these bites offer all the flavor without the extra oil, making them a smarter choice.

Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Perfect for sharing, impress your friends or family with these homemade delights that scream comfort food.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to add a drizzle of chocolate or serve with whipped cream for a customizable treat that suits any occasion.

Elevate your snacking routine with these delicious bites and experience the joy of homemade treats without the hassle!

Air Fryer Donut Bites Ingredients

Unleash the magic of homemade treats with these simple components!

For the Donut Bites

Self-Raising Flour – This is the secret to fluffy texture; can be substituted with all-purpose flour and baking powder (1.5 teaspoon per cup).
Sweetened Greek Yogurt – Adds moisture and a touch of sweetness; plain Greek yogurt works too if you mix in a bit of honey or sugar.
Butter (Melted) – Enhances flavor and promotes a golden crust; feel free to use margarine as a substitute.

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice into each bite; alternative spices like nutmeg can switch things up if desired.
Sugar – This coating adds the right amount of sweetness; coconut sugar makes for a healthier alternative without losing flavor.

Gather these ingredients and get ready to enjoy your delightful Air Fryer Donut Bites with Cinnamon-Sugar Coating!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Donut Bites with Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-raising flour and sweetened Greek yogurt. Stir the mixture with a wooden spoon until a soft and cohesive dough forms, which should take about 2-3 minutes. The dough should feel slightly tacky but workable; if it’s too sticky, add a touch more flour.

Step 2: Shape the Donut Bites
Divide the dough into two equal portions and roll each into logs about 1 inch thick. Cut each log into small pieces, approximately 8-12 grams each, to create delightful bite-sized morsels. Aim for uniformity so that all your Air Fryer Donut Bites cook evenly when you air fry them.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to preheat at 180°C (350°F) for 5 minutes. While it heats up, take a moment to brush the air fryer basket lightly with oil to prevent sticking and ensure an easy release for your donut bites. This helps achieve a golden, crispy exterior for your treats.

Step 4: Coat the Donut Bites
Melt some butter in a small bowl and gently toss the dough balls in the melted butter until they're completely coated. This not only adds flavor but also helps the cinnamon-sugar mixture adhere nicely later. Ensure that the bites are spaced out in the air fryer basket to allow for even cooking.

Step 5: Air Fry the Bites
Carefully place the buttered dough balls into the preheated air fryer basket, ensuring they have enough space between them. Air fry for about 5 minutes, or until the bites are puffed up and golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end to prevent any overcooking, as they can brown quickly.

Step 6: Coat with Cinnamon-Sugar
Once the Air Fryer Donut Bites are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer and brush them immediately with any remaining melted butter. Toss the warm bites in a cinnamon-sugar mixture until they're fully coated, allowing the sweet flavor to embrace the warm, fluffy donuts.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Donut Bites with Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

Create a delightful atmosphere with the perfect accompaniments for these sweet, fluffy bites that make any moment special.

Creamy Vanilla Yogurt: This smooth and tangy yogurt balances the sweetness, creating a lovely contrast that enhances each bite. Dip or drizzle to add a fresh touch!
Rich Chocolate Sauce: A dreamy dip elevates the indulgence factor. The deep, velvety flavor of chocolate pairs beautifully with the cinnamon-sugar coating.
Fruity Berry Compote: A burst of fresh berries adds a bright, tart contrast that complements the warm sweetness of your donut bites. A scoop of this on the side brings a touch of freshness.
Coffee or Espresso: The robust flavors of coffee enhance the warmth of cinnamon, making this a comforting afternoon treat or delightful breakfast experience.
Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of fluffy whipped cream for a decadent touch. It creates a delightful pairing that feels indulgent yet light.
Spiced Chai: Warm, spiced chai tea offers a cozy drink that echoes the cinnamon notes in your donut bites, creating an overall comforting experience.
Ice Cream: For a truly indulgent dessert, serve your donut bites warm alongside vanilla or chai-flavored ice cream. The melting ice cream enhances the warm, fluffy texture.
Coconut Milkshake: This creamy alternative not only cools down the warmth of the bites but also adds an exotic flavor that enhances the overall experience.

How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Donut Bites

Airtight Container: Store your Air Fryer Donut Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their delightful fluffiness.

Reheating: For the best taste, reheat the bites in the air fryer at 170°C (340°F) for 2-3 minutes, restoring their original crispy texture.

Freezer Friendly: If you want to keep them longer, freeze the donut bites in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.

Thawing Tips: To enjoy your frozen Air Fryer Donut Bites, simply thaw at room temperature for about an hour before reheating, ensuring a delicious treat ready to savor!

Air Fryer Donut Bites Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and transform these delightful Air Fryer Donut Bites into something uniquely yours!

Chocolate Drizzle: Top with melted chocolate for a rich, indulgent treat that children and adults will adore.
Add a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate the flavor and contrast beautifully with the sweetness.
Nutty Crunch: Mix chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the dough for added texture and flavor.
The combination of nuttiness and sweetness creates a comforting experience that’s hard to resist.
Fruit-Filled: Add a dollop of fruit jam or fresh berries inside the dough before shaping for a burst of flavor.
When they puff up, you'll have warm, fruity surprises in every bite, adding an exciting twist.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a dash of cayenne or chili powder into the cinnamon-sugar mixture for an unexpected heat.
This sweet-and-spicy combination will surely brighten up your snack time and leave taste buds tingling.
Vegan-Friendly: Replace Greek yogurt with almond or coconut yogurt and the butter with avocado oil for a plant-based delight.
Enjoy all the flavor without compromising on dietary needs, making it a perfect treat for everyone.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of self-raising flour for a lighter alternative.
You can still achieve that fluffy texture while accommodating those with gluten sensitivities!
Cheesecake Filling: Add a small amount of cream cheese into the center for a delightful surprise in every bite.
This creaminess paired with the cinnamon coating creates a contemporary spin on classic flavors.
Cinnamon Roll Style: Swirl additional cinnamon and sugar into the dough before frying for a delicious take on cinnamon rolls.
Each bite will send you straight to dessert paradise!

Let your imagination run wild! These delightful Air Fryer Donut Bites with Cinnamon-Sugar Coating can easily cater to your flavor cravings, where every twist creates a new treasured memory. You might also enjoy pairing them with a comforting drink, like a warm cup of coffee—the perfect complement to your homemade treats!

Expert Tips for Air Fryer Donut Bites

• Butter Brushing: Always brush warm donut bites with melted butter before tossing in sugar for the best adherence of the cinnamon-sugar coating.

• Sticky Dough Management: If your dough feels too sticky, lightly oil your hands when shaping. This will make the process smoother and more manageable.

• Air Fryer Monitoring: Keep a close eye on the donut bites while they air fry; they can cook quickly and puff unevenly, so adjust time as needed.

• Space Matters: Ensure there's enough space between the dough balls in the air fryer basket; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and may affect the rise of your Air Fryer Donut Bites.

• Coating Consistency: For a generous flavor boost, use a mixture of sugar and spice to coat your donut bites. You can experiment with different spices for variety!

Make Ahead Options

These Air Fryer Donut Bites with Cinnamon-Sugar Coating are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping. Simply follow the first two steps of the recipe, then wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent drying out. When you're ready to indulge, take the dough out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before shaping and cooking as directed. This way, you'll enjoy the same delightful, fluffy texture without the last-minute rush!

Air Fryer Donut Bites with Cinnamon-Sugar Coating Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for the donut bites?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using self-raising flour, as it provides the structure and fluffiness that makes these Air Fryer Donut Bites so light. If you don’t have self-raising flour on hand, you can substitute it with all-purpose flour mixed with 1.5 teaspoons of baking powder per cup.

How should I store the Air Fryer Donut Bites?
Very simply! Store your Air Fryer Donut Bites in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for up to 2 days. If you want to warm them up later, simply put them back in the air fryer at 170°C (340°F) for about 2-3 minutes to regain their delightful crispiness.

Can I freeze the donut bites?
Absolutely! To freeze your Air Fryer Donut Bites, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag, where they can be stored for up to 2 months. Whenever you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the bites at room temperature for about an hour before reheating.

What should I do if the dough is sticky?
If you find your dough a bit sticky, don’t fret! The more the merrier; simply lightly oil your hands to manage the stickiness while shaping the donut bites. This little trick makes it easier to form them without adding too much extra flour, helping maintain their light texture.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Indeed! If you or your guests have allergies, make sure to double-check the ingredients—especially for gluten in the flour and lactose in the yogurt and butter. If you want a dairy-free option, you can use a dairy-free yogurt and margarine as substitutes. Always communicate any dietary restrictions in your gathering to keep everyone safe!