2-Ingredient Banana Donut Holes

Introduction

If you’re looking for a quick and easy treat that satisfies your sweet tooth without too much fuss, these 2-Ingredient Banana Donut Holes are the perfect solution. I stumbled upon this recipe when I had a couple of ripe bananas that needed to be used up. The combination of self-rising flour and mashed bananas creates soft, fluffy donut holes that are packed with natural banana flavor. What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is and how versatile the donut holes can be with a variety of toppings. My family adored these little bites, and they didn’t last long once they were made! They are perfect as a quick snack, an after-school treat, or even a light dessert. Plus, you can customize the toppings to make them extra special.

Ingredients

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup self-rising flour
• Optional Toppings:
  • Powdered sugar
  • Cinnamon sugar
  • Chocolate glaze

Instructions

1. Prepare the Oil: Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or saucepan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). It’s important to get the oil to the right temperature for crispy, golden donut holes. If the oil is too hot, the donuts will burn; if it’s not hot enough, they will be soggy.
2. Mash the Bananas: In a medium bowl, peel and mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. The riper the bananas, the sweeter the donut holes will be, so make sure they are fully ripe.
3. Make the Dough: Gradually add the self-rising flour to the mashed bananas, mixing until a thick, sticky dough forms. The dough should be easy to scoop, but not too runny. If the dough is too sticky to handle, add a little more flour.
4. Fry the Donut Holes: Using a small cookie scoop or two spoons, carefully drop tablespoon-sized portions of dough into the hot oil. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause the donut holes to cook unevenly. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until the donut holes are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Drain the Donut Holes: Once the donut holes are golden brown, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil. Let them drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
6. Add Toppings: While the donut holes are still warm, roll them in powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or drizzle with chocolate glaze if desired. The warmth of the donut holes will help the toppings stick, giving them that perfect sweet touch.
7. Serve: Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. These donut holes are best enjoyed fresh, while they’re still warm and soft.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Servings: 12 donut holes
• Calories per donut hole: 90 kcal
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 5mg
• Fat: 3g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Preparation Time

• Total time: 15 minutes
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 10 minutes

How to Serve

• As a Snack: These donut holes make for a delicious afternoon snack or a sweet treat to enjoy with coffee or tea.
• With Breakfast: Serve these banana donut holes with a glass of milk or a hot beverage as part of a quick breakfast.
• For Dessert: Add a drizzle of chocolate glaze or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar to make these donut holes a delightful dessert after dinner.
• For Kids’ Parties: These mini donuts are perfect for kids’ parties. Serve them on a fun platter or in a colorful bowl to make them even more inviting.
• Topping Ideas: Try rolling these donut holes in a variety of toppings such as powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or even sprinkles for an extra burst of sweetness.

Additional Tips

1. Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter the donut holes will be. Overripe bananas, with brown spots, will give you the best flavor.
2. Oil Temperature is Key: Make sure the oil is at the right temperature (350°F or 175°C). If it’s too low, the donuts will absorb too much oil and be greasy. If it’s too high, they’ll burn on the outside before cooking through.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the donut holes in batches. Overcrowding the pan can lower the oil temperature and result in uneven cooking.
4. Add Toppings While Warm: The donut holes will absorb the toppings better when they are still warm. This helps the powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar stick.
5. Make a Bigger Batch: If you want to make a larger batch, just double the ingredients. Keep frying in batches so each donut hole gets a chance to cook evenly.

Recipe Variations

• Coconut Banana Donut Holes: Add shredded coconut to the dough for a tropical twist. It will add texture and flavor that pairs beautifully with the banana.
• Chocolate Chip Banana Donut Holes: Stir in mini chocolate chips for a more decadent treat. The chocolate melts slightly and complements the banana flavor.
• Vegan Version: Use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) instead of the egg, and substitute coconut oil for the frying oil to make these donut holes vegan-friendly.
• Gluten-Free Version: Swap out the self-rising flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
• Banana Nut Donut Holes: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for added crunch and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with Ice Cream: Pair these donut holes with a scoop of vanilla or chocolate ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
• Serve with a Fruit Salad: Balance the sweetness of the donut holes by serving them alongside a fresh fruit salad. The bright flavors of the fruit will complement the richness of the donut holes.
• Top with Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream on top of each donut hole is a great way to make them feel more like a special treat.
• Serve with Hot Chocolate or Coffee: The warmth of a cup of hot chocolate or coffee makes these donut holes even more comforting on a chilly day.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: These donut holes freeze well. After frying and cooling them, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
• Storage: Store leftover donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate them for up to a week. For the best texture, reheat before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use other types of flour? Self-rising flour works best for this recipe because it already contains baking powder and salt, making it easy and quick to use. However, you can substitute with all-purpose flour and add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
2. How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature? You can use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the oil reaches 350°F. Alternatively, drop a small piece of dough into the oil—if it sizzles and floats to the surface, the oil is ready.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time? The dough is best made fresh, but you can store it in the fridge for up to 1 day if necessary. Allow it to come to room temperature before frying.
4. Can I bake these instead of frying? These donut holes are traditionally fried to give them a crispy exterior, but you can bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. They may not be as crispy, but they will still be delicious.
5. What if I don’t have self-rising flour? You can make your own by adding 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt to 1 cup of all-purpose flour.
6. Can I add other toppings? Yes, you can drizzle melted chocolate, caramel sauce, or even peanut butter on top for extra flavor.
7. How can I make them sweeter? Roll the donut holes in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for extra sweetness.
8. Can I make mini donut holes? Yes, you can make smaller donut holes by using a teaspoon to scoop out the dough and adjust the frying time accordingly.
9. What can I serve with these donut holes? These donut holes are great with a side of fresh fruit or as part of a breakfast spread with pancakes and eggs.
10. Can I use frozen bananas? Frozen bananas work fine if you thaw and mash them before using them in the recipe. Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the thawed bananas.

Conclusion

2-Ingredient Banana Donut Holes are a quick

, delicious, and customizable treat that anyone can enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a simple snack or a special dessert, these donut holes are a crowd-pleaser. They’re soft, fluffy, and packed with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. You can enjoy them as they are, or add your favorite toppings to make them extra special. Plus, they’re easy to make and ready in just 15 minutes! Try them out and enjoy these bite-sized delights with your family or guests.

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