Name: Irresistibly Soft Banana Donut Holes in Just 3 Ingredients
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 large Ripe Banana (Use very ripe bananas for best flavor and texture.); 1 cup Almond Flour or Oat Flour (Acts as a binding agent; substitute with regular flour if preferred.); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon or Vanilla Extract (Optional; replace with nutmeg for a unique twist.); 2 tablespoons Coconut Sugar (Adds a touch of sweetness.); 1/4 cup Shredded Coconut (Provides an extra chewy texture and tropical flavor.); 1 teaspoon Extra Cinnamon (A warm coating that complements the donut holes.)

In a moment of sweet discovery, I recently realized that overripe bananas can be my secret weapon in the kitchen. That’s right—I’m talking about 3-Ingredient Banana Donut Holes! These delightful bites transform those neglected fruits into quick and healthy treats that will satisfy any sweet craving without the guilt. Not only are they incredibly easy to make, perfect for those bustling mornings or last-minute snack needs, but they are also gentle on the waistline and align with a clean-eating lifestyle. Picture each bite bursting with natural sweetness and a soft, doughy texture that will have both kids and adults coming back for more. Curious about how to whip these up in no time? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why are Banana Donut Holes a Must-Try?

Simplicity at Its Best: With just three simple ingredients, you can create these delectable banana donut holes in no time.

Healthy Indulgence: Guilt-free and nutritious, they fit perfectly into any clean-eating or plant-based diet.

Versatile Flavor Options: Customize by adding chocolate chips or experimenting with spices like nutmeg for a unique twist.

Quick and Easy: Whether baking or air-frying, these treats come together swiftly, making them ideal for busy mornings or spontaneous snacking.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for kids and adults alike, your family will be asking for seconds! If you love bananas, don’t forget to check out our Caramelized Banana Fig recipe for another delicious twist!

Banana Donut Holes Ingredients

For the Dough

Ripe Banana – Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture in your banana donut holes.
Almond Flour or Oat Flour – Acts as a binding agent; substitute with regular flour for a denser texture if preferred.
Cinnamon or Vanilla Extract (optional) – Enhances the flavor; feel free to replace with nutmeg for a unique spice profile.

For the Optional Coating

Coconut Sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness; sprinkle it for a delightful finish.
Shredded Coconut – Provides an extra chewy texture and tropical flavor; use for an added crunch.
Extra Cinnamon – A warm, inviting coating that complements the banana donut holes beautifully.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for 3-Ingredient Banana Donut Holes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure that your banana donut holes don’t stick. This initial step sets the stage for baking these delightful treats to a golden finish, so it’s essential to get this right.

Step 2: Mash the Banana
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, take one ripe banana and mash it until it becomes smooth. Aim for a creamy texture, ensuring there are no lumps, as this will create a uniform dough for your banana donut holes. A fork works perfectly for this task, transforming your banana into a base brimming with natural sweetness.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Next, add either almond flour or oat flour to the mashed banana, along with cinnamon if you choose to use it. Stir the mixture until it forms a soft, sticky dough, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The dough should be cohesive yet slightly tacky, a sign that your banana donut holes are coming together beautifully.

Step 4: Form the Donut Holes
Once your dough is ready, wet your hands slightly and roll small portions of the mixture into balls, about 1 inch in diameter. This step is essential for shaping the banana donut holes; if the dough feels too sticky, a light moistening of your hands will help shape them easily. Place the formed dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spaced a bit apart.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake the banana donut holes for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they are ready when they turn slightly golden and puff up a bit. This baking process will create a lovely exterior while ensuring the insides remain soft and delicious.

Step 6: Add a Sweet Coating (Optional)
For an extra touch of indulgence, as soon as the banana donut holes are out of the oven, roll them in a mixture of cinnamon and coconut sugar or shredded coconut. This optional step gives a delightful crispy texture and added sweetness, enhancing their attraction. Make sure to do this while they’re still warm for the best sticking effect.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the banana donut holes to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once they’re slightly cooled, serve them warm or at room temperature. These delightful bites are perfect for enjoying fresh or storing for later, making every moment a tasty one!

How to Store and Freeze Banana Donut Holes

Fridge: Store leftover banana donut holes in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This will help maintain their soft texture and delicious flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your frozen banana donut holes, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–10 minutes or microwave for 20-30 seconds until warmed through. Enjoy a tasty snack anytime!

Variations & Substitutions for Banana Donut Holes

Feel free to let your culinary imagination run wild! Here are some delightful ways to customize your banana donut holes.

Vegan: Use any plant-based milk instead of regular milk if you want to add a dash of creaminess without any dairy! Coconut, almond, or oat milk are all excellent options.
Gluten-Free: Stick to almond flour or oat flour for a gluten-free treat, or try substituting with coconut flour—which gives a lovely texture.
Nut-Free: Swap almond flour with sunflower seed flour to keep it nut-free while maintaining that satisfying texture. These options ensure everyone can enjoy!
Extra Sweetness: Toss in dark chocolate chips for an indulgent twist. Imagine the sweet chocolate melting beautifully within each bite.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ginger or allspice to the mixture for a delightful warmth. These spices can transform your banana donut holes into a seasonal treat!
No-Bake Option: For a quick and easy twist, mix the mashed banana with nut butter and oats, roll them into balls, and refrigerate. These no-bake beauties are perfect for hot summer days!
Coconut Bliss: Mix shredded coconut into the dough or sprinkle on top after baking. This tropical addition will make each bite feel like a vacation!
Fruit-Filled: Add small pieces of chopped nuts or dried fruit into the dough for added texture and chewiness. Raisins or cranberries can bring bursts of flavor.

If you’re looking for even more banana-inspired goodness, don’t miss our Chocolate Covered Banana treats or a refreshing Watermelon Banana Smoothie!

Expert Tips for Banana Donut Holes

Choose Ripe Bananas: The riper your bananas, the sweeter and moister your donut holes will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots for the best results.
Avoid Over-Mixing: When combining ingredients, stir just until a dough forms. Over-mixing can lead to tough donut holes, so keep it gentle!
Perfect Baking Time: Keep a close eye while baking; everyone’s oven is different. Remove them as soon as they turn golden for the best texture in your banana donut holes.
Storage Made Simple: Store any leftover donut holes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for a quick snack later!
Experiment with Flours: If almond or oat flour isn’t available, feel free to use all-purpose flour, but remember it will alter the gluten-free aspect of your banana donut holes.

What to Serve with 3-Ingredient Banana Donut Holes

Indulging in these soft, delightful bites transforms snack time into a wholesome experience, and pairing them perfectly completes the meal.

Creamy Yogurt Bowl: A dollop of vanilla yogurt adds a luscious creaminess that balances the sweetness of the donut holes. The tangy contrast complements each bite beautifully!
Fresh Berries Medley: Juicy strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries introduce vibrant colors and fresh flavors. Their natural tartness adds a refreshing pop next to the sweet richness of the donuts.
Nutty Granola Crunch: Serve with crunchy granola to enhance the texture contrast. The toasty flavor and chewiness make each bite feel satisfying and wholesome, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Smoothie Bliss: Enjoy with a nutrient-packed smoothie made with spinach, banana, and almond milk. The creamy smoothie adds a refreshing, healthful component, rounding off your snack delightfully.
Herbal Tea Infusion: Pair with a warm cup of chamomile or mint tea for a soothing finish. The calming aroma complements the sweet treats, making for a delightful afternoon indulgence.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzled dark chocolate transforms the donut holes into a decadent treat. The richness elevates the flavor profile, making them irresistible for any chocolate lover.
Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle some unsweetened coconut flakes on top for added texture and a hint of tropical flair. The chewy bites enhance the overall experience while keeping them healthy.
Almond Milk: A chilled glass of almond milk enhances the flavors and provides a creamy, dairy-free drink option that complements your healthy treats perfectly.
Cinnamon Applesauce: A side of homemade cinnamon applesauce adds a cozy, spiced flavor to your plate. The warm, comforting taste pairs wonderfully with the soft, sweet donut holes.

Make Ahead Options

These 3-Ingredient Banana Donut Holes are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply mash the banana, combine with the flour and cinnamon, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time but ensures that the flavors meld beautifully, making your banana donut holes just as delicious when baked later. When you’re ready to enjoy, roll the dough into balls, bake for 12-15 minutes, and roll in the optional coating while still warm for that extra sweetness. This simple prep streamlines your snack time, providing a warm, healthy treat with minimal evening effort!

3-Ingredient Banana Donut Holes Recipe FAQs

What type of bananas should I use?
Absolutely! The best bananas for your donut holes are very ripe ones. Look for bananas with a lot of brown spots, as they are sweeter and will provide the perfect moisture for your dough. Avoid using green or slightly ripe bananas, as they may not mash well and could result in a denser, less flavorful treat.

How should I store leftover banana donut holes?
To keep your banana donut holes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This method preserves their delightful softness and prevents them from drying out. If you want to enjoy them later, you can easily freeze them. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container!

Can I freeze banana donut holes?
Very! Freezing banana donut holes is a great way to enjoy them later. Simply arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze them for about 1-2 hours until solid, then transfer them into a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for a treat, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes.

What if my banana donut hole dough is too sticky?
No worries! If your dough turns out too sticky to handle, lightly wetting your hands can work wonders. Just moisten them to help roll the dough into balls without it sticking. Additionally, if you find it’s still too tacky, you could incorporate a little extra flour until you achieve the right consistency.

Are these banana donut holes suitable for everyone?
Absolutely! These donut holes are typically gluten-free when using almond or oat flour, making them great for those with gluten sensitivities. Additionally, they’re vegan since they only contain bananas, flour, and optional natural flavorings. Always check your specific ingredients for allergens, especially if you’re serving them to someone with food sensitivities or allergies.

Can I make these banana donut holes without baking?
Yes! For a no-bake alternative, mash the banana and combine it with nut butter and oats instead of the flour. Roll the mixture into balls and chill them in the fridge for about 30 minutes to set. This creates a delicious, chewy treat that’s just as satisfying!