Air Fryer Donut Bites

This simple and delightful treat brings the fun of donuts to your kitchen in a flash. Air fryer donut bites are light, fluffy, and satisfy that sweet tooth without the deep frying mess. They make a perfect snack or quick dessert when you want something homemade but fuss-free.

I first made these for a weekend movie night when we wanted a cozy snack, and now they have become a cozy tradition in our household.

Ingredients List

• Self-raising flour: for the perfect light and airy texture. When buying, check the freshness date for best rising.
• Sweetened Greek yogurt: adds moisture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness. Choose creamy yogurt for smooth dough.
• Granulated sugar: sweetens just right and helps create a golden crust. Fine sugar blends more easily.
• Ground cinnamon: brings warmth and a fragrant spice that makes these bites inviting. Freshly ground will give the best aroma.
• Melted chocolate: is optional but offers a rich, decadent finish. Use good quality chocolate for smooth melting and flavor.

Cooking Steps

Prepare The Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius so it is ready to cook the bites evenly.

Mix The Dough:

Combine the self-raising flour, sweetened Greek yogurt, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon in a bowl. Stir well until a cohesive dough forms without lumps.

Shape The Donut Bites:

Roll the dough gently into small balls roughly one inch in diameter. This size cooks through nicely and keeps the texture tender.

Arrange And Cook:

Place the dough balls evenly spaced in the air fryer basket to allow hot air circulation. Cook for seven to eight minutes until golden brown and lightly crisp on the outside.

Optional Chocolate Drizzle:

Once cooked and slightly cooled, drizzle with melted chocolate to add a sweet finishing touch. Serve warm for the best experience.

My favorite part is the cinnamon aroma that fills the kitchen while they cook. Making these bites always reminds me of cozy mornings spent with family enjoying fresh treats together.

Best Storage Practices

These donut bites are best eaten fresh the same day for optimal texture and flavor. To save leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. Reheat gently in the air fryer or oven to revive their softness instead of using a microwave which can dry them out.

Ingredient Swaps

Plain yogurt can replace sweetened Greek yogurt but add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to keep sweetness balanced. For a dairy-free version, try coconut yogurt which gives a subtle tropical note. Make sure to pick unsweetened varieties if you prefer less sugar. Experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom to add a different depth of flavor to the dough.

Serving Pairings

These bites pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a mid-afternoon treat. Adding fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream alongside turns them into a more indulgent snack. Drizzling with a little honey or dusting with powdered sugar also elevates their charm.

Seasonal Upgrades

Adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract warms these up for fall and winter months. For spring, toss in a handful of blueberries or raspberries before cooking. Summer calls for a scoop of citrus zest mixed into the dough for a refreshing twist.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a wonderful base to customize by adding nuts, dried fruits, or swapping spices according to your mood.

Frequently Asked Cooking Questions

→ Can I use plain yogurt instead of sweetened Greek yogurt?

Yes, plain yogurt works well. You might want to add a little extra sugar to balance the tartness.

→ What’s the best temperature for air frying these bites?

Setting the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) ensures they cook evenly and turn golden without burning.

→ How can I make the bites richer in flavor?

Adding a pinch of nutmeg to the dough enriches the taste with warm, complementary spices.

→ Are these donut bites best served warm or cold?

They're best enjoyed fresh and warm, straight from the air fryer, for a tender texture.

→ Can I substitute self-raising flour with all-purpose flour?

If using all-purpose flour, add baking powder to help them rise and maintain lightness.

→ How do I add melted chocolate topping?

Melt chocolate gently and drizzle over the cooked donut bites for a sweet finishing touch.