Name: Air Fryer Donut Bites
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 9 min
Total time: 19 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/3 cup plain yogurt (or dairy-free alternative); 1/4 cup milk (or dairy-free milk); 1 tablespoon neutral oil (like canola or avocado); 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons melted butter (or vegan butter); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

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Fluffy, golden, and lightly crisped, these air fryer donut bites are a game-changer when it comes to satisfying sweet cravings without turning to deep-frying. I love how they're made with simple ingredients, quick to prepare, and coated in the most irresistible cinnamon sugar. Whether I’m putting together a fun breakfast, a last-minute dessert, or a sweet snack, these bite-sized treats always deliver.

Air Fryer Donut Bites

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

¼ teaspoon salt

⅓ cup plain yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)

¼ cup milk (or dairy-free milk)

1 tablespoon neutral oil (like canola or avocado)

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For Coating:

2 tablespoons melted butter (or vegan butter)

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

I start by preheating my air fryer to 350°F (175°C).

In a bowl, I whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Then I add the yogurt, milk, oil, and vanilla extract, mixing until a soft and slightly sticky dough forms.

With lightly floured hands, I roll the dough into 1-inch balls—usually about 12 to 14 bites.

I place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure there’s space between each for even cooking.

I air fry them for 7–9 minutes until golden and cooked through.

While they’re still warm, I brush each bite with melted butter and roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture.

Serve warm—I always find they’re best fresh!

Servings and timing

Servings: 12 donut bites

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 9 minutes

Total Time: 19 minutes

Calories per bite: 98 kcal

Variations

I sometimes mix a bit of nutmeg or pumpkin spice into the dough for seasonal flavor.

For a richer version, I add a little more vanilla and a splash of maple syrup.

If I’m in the mood for chocolate, I dip them in melted chocolate instead of cinnamon sugar.

To make them vegan, I just use plant-based yogurt, milk, and butter—works like a charm.

I’ve also made these gluten-free using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and they turned out great.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, I pop them back in the air fryer at 300°F for 2–3 minutes or microwave them for about 10–15 seconds. I don’t recommend refrigerating them, as they can get a bit dry.

FAQs

How do I know when the donut bites are fully cooked?

I check that they’re golden on the outside and feel slightly firm to the touch. If I’m unsure, I break one open—it should be fluffy and cooked through with no doughy center.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, I’ve made the dough a few hours ahead and kept it covered in the fridge. I let it come to room temperature before forming the balls and air frying.

What’s the best way to coat them evenly in cinnamon sugar?

I find brushing them with melted butter while they’re still warm helps the cinnamon sugar stick best. I roll them gently in a shallow dish of the mixture until fully coated.

Can I freeze air fryer donut bites?

I don’t recommend freezing them after cooking since they lose their soft texture, but I have frozen the raw dough balls. When ready, I let them thaw slightly and then air fry as directed.

Do I need to flip them halfway through cooking?

Not necessarily. My air fryer cooks evenly without flipping, but if I notice one side browning faster, I gently turn them around the 5-minute mark.

Conclusion

These air fryer donut bites are my go-to when I want something sweet, fast, and satisfying. I love how they’re light, fluffy, and totally customizable. Whether I’m making them for guests or just treating myself, they never disappoint—and I don’t even have to turn on the oven.

Recipe:

Air Fryer Donut Bites

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 19 minutes
Yield: 12 donut bites
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Fluffy, golden, and lightly crisped, these air fryer donut bites are a quick and healthier alternative to traditional donuts, made with simple ingredients and coated in irresistible cinnamon sugar.

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add the yogurt, milk, oil, and vanilla extract, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
With lightly floured hands, roll the dough into 1-inch balls (about 12 to 14 bites).
Place the balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each.
Air fry for 7–9 minutes until golden and cooked through.
While warm, brush each bite with melted butter and roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

Add nutmeg or pumpkin spice to the dough for seasonal flavor.
Dip in melted chocolate instead of cinnamon sugar for a different twist.
Use plant-based yogurt, milk, and butter to make the recipe vegan.
A 1:1 gluten-free flour blend can be used for a gluten-free version.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the air fryer at 300°F for 2–3 minutes or microwave for 10–15 seconds.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 9 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American