Sometimes you just need something warm and sweet. These Air Fryer Protein Donut Holes hit the spot perfectly. They are light, fluffy, and surprisingly good for you. You can have a healthy treat ready in minutes.
These are a great choice for back-to-school snacks. Your family will love the cinnamon sugar coating. It is the perfect way to satisfy a dessert craving. Let’s get cooking and make something delicious together.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is perfect for busy fall days. It uses simple pantry staples you likely have now. The Greek yogurt makes the dough tender and moist. You get plenty of protein in every single bite.
There is no messy deep-frying involved here. The air fryer keeps things clean and fast. It is a guilt-free snack everyone will enjoy. You will love how fast they disappear from the plate.
Simple Method
Making these donut holes is incredibly easy. You just mix the ingredients and roll the dough. The air fryer handles the rest of the work. No yeast or rising time is required for this recipe. Even if you are a beginner, you can do this.
What You Need
Most of these items are basic kitchen staples. You likely have the flour and spices ready to go.
- 120g All-purpose flour
- 35g Vanilla whey-casein protein powder blend
- 6g Baking powder
- 1g Fine sea salt
- 180g Plain non-fat Greek yogurt
- 5ml Vanilla extract
- 15g Granulated monk fruit sweetener
- 10g Light butter, melted
- 15g Cinnamon-erythritol sugar blend
Step-by-Step
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and monk fruit sweetener in a large mixing bowl to ensure even leavening distribution.
- Incorporate the Greek yogurt and vanilla extract into the dry mixture using a spatula, stirring until a shaggy dough begins to form.
- Fold in the protein powder last; this technical step prevents the whey from becoming excessively sticky during the initial hydration phase.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for approximately 60 seconds until a smooth, cohesive ball is formed.
- Segment the dough into 12 equal portions, approximately 28 grams each.
- Roll each portion between the palms to create uniform spheres, ensuring no deep cracks remain on the surface.
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange the donut holes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, maintaining at least 15mm of clearance between each unit to facilitate optimal airflow.
- Air fry for 7 to 8 minutes, shaking the basket at the 4-minute mark to ensure even browning across all surfaces.
- Remove the donut holes and immediately brush with a thin layer of melted butter while the surface temperature remains high.
- Roll each hole in the cinnamon-erythritol blend until completely coated, then transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these warm with a fresh cup of coffee. They are excellent for school lunches as well. You can pair them with some fresh apple slices. Set them out for a cozy weekend brunch. Your kids will think it is a special treat.
Keep It Fresh
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to two days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for two minutes. This restores that fresh, soft texture perfectly. You can also freeze them for a month.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip the step of preheating your air fryer.
- Avoid over-kneading the dough to keep them light.
- Use a whey-casein blend for the best cake-like texture.
- Brush the butter while they are very hot.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for a seasonal fall flavor.
- Space them out to ensure even air circulation.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap the cinnamon for cocoa powder for chocolate donuts.
- Use dairy-free yogurt to make these dairy-friendly.
- Dip them in a simple lemon glaze for brightness.
- Add pumpkin pie spice for a cozy autumn twist.
Quick Answers
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough the night before. Keep it wrapped tightly in the fridge. Just roll and air fry when you are ready.
Will my kids actually like these?
They definitely will! The cinnamon sugar coating makes them taste like traditional treats. They won’t even notice the extra protein.
How do I know when they are done?
They should be golden brown and firm to the touch. They will spring back slightly when you press them. Don’t overcook them or they may get dry.
I hope these little treats bring a bit of joy to your kitchen. They are so simple to whip up on a busy morning. Give them a try and enjoy every sweet bite.
— Alex
Ingredients
- 120 g All -purpose flour
- 35 g Vanilla whey-casein protein powder blend
- 6 g Baking powder
- 1 g Fine sea salt
- 180 g Plain non-fat Greek yogurt
- 5 ml Vanilla extract
- 15 g Granulated monk fruit sweetener
- 10 g Light butter, melted
- 15 g Cinnamon -erythritol sugar blend
Instructions
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and monk fruit sweetener in a large mixing bowl to ensure even leavening distribution.
- Incorporate the Greek yogurt and vanilla extract into the dry mixture using a spatula, stirring until a shaggy dough begins to form.
- Fold in the protein powder last; this technical step prevents the whey from becoming excessively sticky during the initial hydration phase.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for approximately 60 seconds until a smooth, cohesive ball is formed.
- Segment the dough into 12 equal portions, approximately 28 grams each.
- Roll each portion between the palms to create uniform spheres, ensuring no deep cracks remain on the surface.
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange the donut holes in the air fryer basket in a single layer, maintaining at least 15mm of clearance between each unit to facilitate optimal airflow.
- Air fry for 7 to 8 minutes, shaking the basket at the 4-minute mark to ensure even browning across all surfaces.
- Remove the donut holes and immediately brush with a thin layer of melted butter while the surface temperature remains high.
- Roll each hole in the cinnamon-erythritol blend until completely coated, then transfer to a wire rack to cool slightly before serving.
