When life hands you overripe bananas, why not turn them into something deliciously delightful? I discovered this recipe for 3-Ingredient Banana Donut Holes during one of those lazy afternoons when I wanted a snack but couldn't bear the thought of hitting the drive-thru for something processed. These little bites are not just quick to whip up; they’re also wonderfully guilt-free. With just ripe bananas, almond flour, and a hint of cinnamon or vanilla, you'll have a batch of warm, fluffy banana bites that are sure to satisfy any craving.
Perfect for a busy afternoon or as a sweet treat after dinner, they offer a scrumptious twist on traditional donuts without the sugar overload. Plus, they're a creative way to put those lonely bananas to good use, transforming them into a wholesome snack that even the kids will love. Ready to indulge in a snack that’s as healthy as it is delicious? Let's dive into this easy recipe that showcases the magic of simplicity!
Why will you love 3 Ingredients Banana Donut Holes?
Simplicity at its finest: With just three ingredients, making these donut holes is a breeze-perfect for novice bakers and busy schedules alike.
Guilt-free satisfaction: Enjoy a sweet treat without the heavy calories, making them an ideal choice for health-conscious snackers.
Versatile variations: Easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite flavors or coatings, from chocolate chips to nut butter, ensuring there's something for everyone.
Kid-approved fun: The fluffy texture and sweet banana flavor will have kids begging for more, making snack time a hit!
Waste-free cooking: A fantastic way to use up ripe bananas, turning potential waste into a deliciously delightful snack.
3 Ingredients Banana Donut Holes Ingredients
For the Bites
- Ripe Banana - The main sweetener that adds moisture; choose very ripe ones for the best results.
- Almond Flour or Oat Flour - Provides structure; use almond flour for gluten-free donut holes or oat flour for a nut-free option.
- Cinnamon or Vanilla Extract (optional) - Enhances flavor; cinnamon adds a warm spice, while vanilla lends a classic sweetness.
For the Coating (Optional)
- Coconut Sugar - Adds a touch of sweetness; roll warm donut holes for a delightful finish.
- Cinnamon - Elevates the sweetness with an aromatic spice; perfect for a touch of comfort.
- Shredded Coconut - Offers a chewy texture and extra flavor; great for those who love tropical notes.
These 3 Ingredients Banana Donut Holes are a quick and guilt-free snack you'll want to make over and over again!
How to Make 3 Ingredients Banana Donut Holes
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Mash the ripe banana in a medium bowl until it's completely smooth, ensuring there are no lumps for the best texture in your donut holes.
Combine the almond flour (or oat flour) with the mashed banana, stirring in the optional cinnamon or vanilla extract until a sticky dough comes together.
Roll the mixture into balls about 1 inch wide; if the dough is too sticky, wet your hands slightly for easier handling.
Place the rolled balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or if you’re air-frying them, cook for about 8-10 minutes until they turn golden brown.
Optionally: While still warm, roll the donut holes in coconut sugar, cinnamon, or shredded coconut for an added touch of sweetness and texture.
Cool them slightly before serving. They're delightful enjoyed warm or at room temperature!
Optional: Serve with a dollop of yogurt or nut butter for extra indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for 3 Ingredients Banana Donut Holes
Get creative with your donut holes and explore exciting alternatives to make them truly your own!
Nut-Free Option: Use oat flour instead of almond flour to keep the recipe entirely nut-free while still achieving a delightful texture.
Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the dough for a rich, indulgent twist that satisfies any sweet tooth.
Spiced Delight: Mix in a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon for an additional layer of warm flavors that excite the palate.
Fruity Burst: Incorporate chopped nuts or dried fruit into the mixture for added crunch and a burst of sweetness in every bite.
Coconut Craze: Roll the donut holes in shredded coconut after baking for a tropical twist that adds both flavor and texture.
No-Bake Option: Mix mashed bananas with nut butter and rolled oats instead for a quick no-bake snack-just shape them into bites!
Maple Sweetness: For a rich sweetness, drizzle with maple syrup after baking, making each bite a delightful experience.
Zesty Finish: Add a touch of lemon or orange zest to the dough for a citrus spark, elevating the flavor profile beautifully.
Feel free to mix and match these variations to craft banana donut holes that suit your taste and lifestyle!
Expert Tips for 3 Ingredients Banana Donut Holes
Banana Selection: Use very ripe bananas for the best sweetness and moisture; under-ripe bananas may result in denser bites.
Flour Choices: Stick to almond flour for gluten-free donut holes or oat flour if you’re avoiding nuts. Regular flour can lead to heaviness.
No-Bake Option: For a quick no-bake treat, mix mashed bananas with nut butter and rolled oats, forming into bites without baking.
Coating Variations: Get creative with coatings! Coconut sugar, cinnamon, or shredded coconut all provide different flavors and textures.
Storage Tips: Store any leftover donut holes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze them for future snacking.
What to Serve with 3 Ingredients Banana Donut Holes?
Looking to create the perfect meal around these delightful banana bites? Here are some ideas to complement their sweet, soft texture!
- Greek Yogurt Dip: A creamy addition that balances sweetness with tang, great for dunking those soft donut holes.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh, vibrant fruit adds a refreshing crunch, making for a colorful and healthy side.
- Nut Butter: Almond or peanut butter creates a satisfying contrast with a nutty flavor that enhances the banana.
Pairing these donut holes with vibrant sides not only elevates your snacking experience but also creates a wholesome treat the whole family will enjoy. Want a drink? Consider a lovely herbal tea or a rich hot chocolate for a cozy finish!
Make Ahead Options
These 3 Ingredients Banana Donut Holes are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy fresh snacks anytime! You can mash the ripe bananas and mix them with almond flour (or oat flour) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the prepared mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its quality. Then, when you're ready to bake, roll the chilled dough into balls and bake them right before serving for warm, fluffy bites that feel just made. For an even quicker option, you can also bake the donut holes in advance, then store them in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just rewarm them briefly in the oven before serving for mouthwatering results!
How to Store and Freeze 3 Ingredients Banana Donut Holes
Room Temperature: Keep donut holes in a cool, dry place for up to 1 day. Ensure they are in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This will help retain their soft texture and flavor, making for a quick guilt-free snack!
Freezer: Freeze donut holes in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray. Once solid, transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for a warm treat!
Reheating: For the best results, rewarm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, perfect for enjoying your 3 Ingredients Banana Donut Holes again!
3 Ingredients Banana Donut Holes Recipe FAQs
What type of bananas should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! You want to choose very ripe bananas with a few brown spots, as they are the sweetest and will provide the moistest texture for your donut holes. The more ripe, the better-these bananas will puree smoothly and give you the perfect flavor profile!
How should I store my 3 Ingredients Banana Donut Holes?
You can store your leftover donut holes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for snacking! If you prefer, you can also freeze them, and they’ll last up to 3 months. Just make sure to arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray until solid before transferring them to a zip-top bag.
Can I freeze the donut holes, and how do I do it?
Very! To freeze your 3 Ingredients Banana Donut Holes, line a tray with parchment paper and place the donut holes in a single layer. Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a zip-top bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. This method helps prevent freezer burn! When you're ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
What should I do if my donut holes turn out dense?
If you find your donut holes are dense, it could be due to using under-ripe bananas or too much flour. Make sure your bananas are very ripe and mashed smoothly. If you use almond or oat flour, measure carefully to ensure the dough isn’t too dry. For lighter bites, keep an eye on the quantity of flour; you want a sticky, easily moldable dough.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! These banana donut holes are naturally gluten-free when using almond flour or oat flour. They are also refined sugar-free, making them suitable for various dietary needs. If you’re concerned about allergies, ensure any added ingredients, like nut butter or chocolate chips, are compatible with your dietary restrictions. Always check for hidden allergens!
Delicious 3 Ingredients Banana Donut Holes – Guilt-Free Snack!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Mash the ripe banana in a medium bowl until it’s completely smooth.
- Combine the almond flour with the mashed banana, adding cinnamon or vanilla extract until a sticky dough forms.
- Roll the mixture into balls about 1 inch wide; wet hands if the dough is too sticky.
- Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12–15 minutes.
- Optionally, while warm, roll the donut holes in coconut sugar, cinnamon, or shredded coconut.
- Cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
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