These Air Fryer Blueberry and Cottage Cheese Donut Holes are a tasty treat that’s light and fluffy! Made with fresh blueberries and creamy cottage cheese, they’re a fun twist on classic donuts.
Don’t worry, no deep frying here! I love how easy these are to whip up. Plus, they make a great snack or breakfast—who wouldn’t want dessert for breakfast, right? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
All-purpose flour: This is the base of the donut holes. For a healthier option, try whole wheat flour, but it might change the texture a bit.
Cottage cheese: Great for adding moisture and protein! If you’re dairy-free, use a vegan cottage cheese or silken tofu for a similar effect.
Fresh blueberries: They add a fruity punch. If fresh ones aren’t available, frozen blueberries work too, just be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid extra moisture.
Granulated sugar: This sweetens the batter. If you want a lower-calorie option, consider using a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia in the same ratio.
Milk: I use whole milk for richness but almond milk or oat milk can be good substitutes for a dairy-free version.
How Do You Get the Perfect Texture for Donut Holes?
Getting a light and fluffy texture for donut holes is all about gently mixing the ingredients. Here’s how:
- Start by whisking together your dry ingredients well to ensure even rising.
- When adding wet ingredients, fold them in rather than stirring vigorously. This keeps air in the batter.
- Be mindful with blueberries; fold them in softly to avoid breaking them up, which can make the donut holes denser.
And remember, the air fryer cooks quickly, so keep an eye on the donut holes to prevent overcooking. Enjoy the fluffy goodness!
Air Fryer Blueberry And Cottage Cheese Donut Holes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup cottage cheese (well drained)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk
- 3/4 cup fresh blueberries
- Cooking spray or a light brush of oil for air fryer basket
- Powdered sugar for dusting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 8-10 minutes to cook in the air fryer. Total time including prep and cooking is approximately 25-30 minutes. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a tasty snack or breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps ensure an even distribution for the best rise.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, combine the cottage cheese, egg, vanilla extract, and milk. Mix well until smooth. The cottage cheese adds moisture and gives a lovely texture to the donut holes!
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, gently folding to combine. Be careful not to overmix; we want to keep the batter light and fluffy.
4. Fold in the Blueberries:
Gently fold in the fresh blueberries. Try to avoid breaking them, as whole blueberries will provide delicious bursts of flavor in each bite.
5. Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or a brush of oil to prevent sticking.
6. Scoop the Batter:
Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, drop small balls of batter (about 1 inch in diameter) into the air fryer basket. Make sure to leave some space between each for expansion as they cook.
7. Air Fry the Donut Holes:
Air fry the donut holes for 8-10 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking. They should appear golden brown and cooked through when done.
8. Cool and Dust:
Once cooked, remove the donut holes from the air fryer and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Dust them with powdered sugar before serving for a sweet touch!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy these warm donut holes as a delightful treat on their own or with extra fresh blueberries on the side. They are light, fluffy, and bursting with flavor!
This recipe yields delightful donut holes that will bring smiles all around. Enjoy making and sharing this fun treat!
Can I Use Frozen Blueberries in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the batter to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the texture of your donut holes.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to regain their fluffiness.
Can I Make These Donut Holes Egg-Free?
Absolutely! You can replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water, let it sit until thickened) or 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce for a similar binding effect.
What Can I Substitute for Cottage Cheese?
If you need a substitute, Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese can work well in this recipe. They will add a creamy texture and maintain moisture, giving you similar results!