Banana Donut Holes are not just a delightful treat; they’re a nostalgic journey into the heart of comfort food. Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy donut hole that carries the sweet aroma of ripe bananas, lovingly blended into the dough. This recipe has woven itself into the fabric of many family gatherings and brunches, often becoming the star of the dessert table. The beauty of Banana Donut Holes lies not only in their deliciousness but also in their versatility—they can be enjoyed for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a sweet treat after dinner. People love them because they are simple to make and offer a delightful twist on traditional donut holes, combining the classic taste of donuts with the rich flavor of bananas.
What Is Banana Donut Holes
Banana Donut Holes are bite-sized, fluffy morsels made from a sweet banana-infused batter, deep-fried or baked to golden perfection. They boast a soft and pillowy texture on the inside with a slightly crisp exterior, making each bite a delightful experience. While they share similarities with traditional donut holes, the addition of mashed bananas elevates them, giving a moistness and sweetness that sets them apart. Their compact size makes them perfect for snacking, sharing, or even packing in lunchboxes for a sweet surprise.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- Easy to make with simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
- Deliciously sweet and satisfying, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
- Family-friendly and loved by kids and adults alike.
- Versatile—can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
How Does It Taste?
When you take a bite of a Banana Donut Hole, you’re greeted with a burst of sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the comforting taste of banana. The flavor is rich and aromatic, with hints of vanilla that dance on your palate. The texture is an enchanting combination of fluffy and slightly dense, creating a satisfying chew that complements the sweetness. If you decide to roll them in cinnamon sugar or drizzle them with chocolate, each bite becomes even more indulgent, making them utterly irresistible!
Health & Ingredient Benefits
Banana Donut Holes are not only delicious but also incorporate ingredients that bring along some health benefits:
- Bananas: High in potassium and vitamin C, bananas are great for heart health and digestion.
- Flour: Provides carbohydrates for energy, making these donut holes a fun pick-me-up.
- Eggs: Packed with protein, eggs help to create a fluffy texture and add essential nutrients.
- Honey or Maple Syrup: Natural sweeteners that provide antioxidants and a touch of wholesome sweetness.
So why wait? Dive into the delightful world of Banana Donut Holes and treat yourself and your loved ones to a deliciously unique experience!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup all-purpose flour – This is the base of the donut holes, providing structure and a soft texture.
- 1/2 cup mashed ripe bananas – Fresh bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, making the donut holes soft and flavorful.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar – For sweetness, helping to balance the flavors and enhance the banana taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – This leavening agent helps the donut holes rise and become fluffy.
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda – Works alongside baking powder for extra lift and a lighter texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors in the donut holes, ensuring they are well-seasoned.
- 1/4 cup milk – Adds moisture to the batter; you can use dairy or non-dairy milk for a dairy-free option.
- 1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together and adds richness to the donut holes.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a sweet aroma.
- Vegetable oil for frying – Ensures the donut holes are crispy on the outside while remaining soft inside.
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – For combining the batter ingredients.
- Whisk – To mix the wet and dry ingredients until smooth.
- Frying pan or deep pot – A deep vessel for frying the donut holes evenly.
- Slotted spoon – For carefully removing the donut holes from the oil.
- Paper towels – To drain excess oil after frying.
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon – For portioning out the batter into the oil.
Optional Substitutions & Additions
- Dairy-free options: Substitute milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.
- Spice variations: Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Nuts: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
- Chocolate chips: Fold in 1/4 cup of chocolate chips for a decadent touch.
How to Make Banana Donut Holes
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed ripe bananas, granulated sugar, milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to mix these wet ingredients until they are well combined and smooth.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, blend the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a whisk or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. The batter should be thick but pourable.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a frying pan or deep pot, heat approximately 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat. You can test if the oil is ready by dropping a small amount of batter into it; if it bubbles and rises to the surface, it’s time to fry!
Step 5: Fry the Donut Holes
Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, carefully drop small portions of batter into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
Step 6: Drain and Cool
Once golden brown, use a slotted spoon to remove the donut holes from the oil and transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels. This will help absorb any excess oil.
Step 7: Coat with Sugar (Optional)
If desired, roll the warm donut holes in granulated sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. This step is optional but highly recommended for a delightful finish.
What to Serve With
Banana donut holes pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect breakfast treat or afternoon snack. For a special touch, serve with a side of caramel sauce or chocolate dipping sauce for an indulgent experience.
Tips for Success
- Ensure your bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the fryer; this helps maintain the oil temperature for even cooking.
- Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature around 350°F (175°C) for best frying results.
- Experiment with different spices or add-ins to customize your donut holes to your liking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter can lead to tough donut holes; mix just until combined.
- Using unripe bananas will result in less sweet and flavorful donut holes.
- Not allowing the oil to reach the right temperature can lead to greasy donut holes.
- Frying too many at once can cause them to cook unevenly.
How to Store & Reheat
Storing
Store leftover banana donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them, where they’ll last for up to a week.
Reheating
To reheat, place the donut holes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. This will help restore some of their original texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make these donut holes gluten-free? Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Can I freeze banana donut holes? Absolutely! Freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- How do I know when the donut holes are done frying? They should be a beautiful golden brown and float to the surface when cooked.
- What can I do with leftover batter? If you have extra batter, you can make pancakes or waffles!
Nutritional Info
Each banana donut hole contains approximately 80 calories, with 3 grams of fat, 12 grams of carbohydrates, and 1 gram of protein. This makes them a delightful treat while still being mindful of portion sizes!
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the comforting flavors of banana and the fun of a donut, then Banana Donut Holes are an absolute must-try! These little bites of joy are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, making them perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even a sweet dessert. I love how they capture the essence of ripe bananas, offering a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with a dusting of cinnamon sugar. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. So gather your ingredients and give these Banana Donut Holes a whirl; I promise you won’t be disappointed. They’re sure to bring smiles to your table!
Banana Donut Holes
Delicious bite-sized banana-infused donut holes, perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 medium bananas, mashed
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- For the Coating:
Instructions
-
Step 1
In a bowl, mix mashed bananas, sugar, milk, egg, and vanilla until smooth. -
Step 2
In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. -
Step 3
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. -
Step 4
Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. -
Step 5
Drop batter by spoonfuls into hot oil, frying until golden brown (3-4 minutes). -
Step 6
Drain on paper towels and roll in sugar and cinnamon mixture if desired.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: ~350 calories. Based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Allergy Information
Always check labels for specific allergen information.