Oh my gosh, let me tell you about my latest breakfast obsession – these air fryer protein donuts single serve that I’ve been making every morning! You know those days when you’re rushing out the door but still want something sweet and satisfying? That’s where these little guys come in. I stumbled upon this recipe after one too many sad, dry protein bars, and wow, what a game-changer!
What I love most is how ridiculously easy they are to whip up. Just a few ingredients, one bowl, and your air fryer does all the work while you get ready. No more waiting for the oven to preheat or dealing with a dozen donuts tempting you all day. These are perfectly portioned for one – because let’s be real, sometimes you just need a personal donut moment!
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Protein Donuts
Let me count the ways these little donuts will steal your heart (without stealing your whole morning)!
- Lightning fast – From bowl to air fryer in under 5 minutes flat
- No guilt – Packed with protein to keep you full, not sluggish
- Just for you – Single-serve means no leftovers calling your name all day
- Your rules – Swap flavors, toppings, you name it!
- Air fryer magic – Crispy outside, fluffy inside without the oil bath
Trust me, once you try these, that protein bar stash is going to look real sad in comparison.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Protein Donuts Single Serve
Okay, let’s gather the goodies! Here’s what you’ll need for one perfect, personal protein donut (because sharing is overrated sometimes):
- 1/4 cup oat flour – Pack it in there nice and tight, just like you mean it
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (about 30g) – My current crush is a plant-based blend, but use what makes you happy
- 1/2 tsp baking powder – The tiny but mighty lift-maker
- 1 tbsp almond milk – Or whatever milk you’ve got – I’ve even used coconut water in a pinch!
- 1 large egg white – Save the yolk for hollandaise later, you fancy thing
- 1 tsp honey – Adjust to your sweet tooth’s demands
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract – The good stuff, none of that artificial nonsense
See? Nothing weird – just simple ingredients you probably already have. Now let’s make some magic!
How to Make Air Fryer Protein Donuts Single Serve
Alright, let’s turn that bowl of ingredients into your new favorite breakfast! This is seriously so simple – you’ll be amazed how quick it comes together. I’ve made these so many times I could probably do it in my sleep (and honestly, some groggy mornings I practically do!).
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Grab your favorite mixing bowl (mine’s that chipped blue one that somehow always ends up in my hands). Toss in your oat flour, protein powder, and baking powder. Here’s my pro tip: whisk them like you mean it for about 30 seconds. This isn’t just mixing – you’re aerating those ingredients and making sure zero lumps of protein powder survive. Lumpy donut batter is just sad, and we’re not about that life.
Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
Now for the fun part! Pour in your almond milk, egg white, honey, and vanilla. Stir everything together with a spoon until it’s smooth, but here’s the key – stop as soon as it comes together. Overmixing makes tough donuts, and we want that perfect tender bite. The batter should look like thick pancake batter – if it’s too thick, add just a teaspoon more milk. Too thin? A sprinkle more oat flour.
Step 3: Cook in the Air Fryer
Cue the air fryer fanfare! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (yes, really – that two minutes makes a difference!). While it heats, grease your donut mold like your donut’s life depends on it – I use coconut oil spray, but butter works too. Spoon in your batter, filling each cavity about 3/4 full. Air fry for 8-10 minutes – at 8 minutes, do the toothpick test. If it comes out clean, you’re golden! The tops should spring back when lightly pressed.
Step 4: Cooling & Serving
This is the hardest part – wait five whole minutes before removing from the mold. I know, I know, the smell is incredible, but trust me, this prevents donut disasters. After they’ve cooled slightly, gently loosen the edges with a butter knife and pop them out. They’ll be perfectly golden with that irresistible slightly crisp exterior. Now the fun begins – eat as is, or get fancy with toppings!
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Protein Donuts
After making approximately a zillion of these donuts (okay, maybe just dozens), I’ve picked up some foolproof tricks to guarantee perfect results every time:
- Sweetness control – Start with 1 tsp honey, then taste the batter (raw egg warning!). Add more in tiny increments – protein powders vary wildly in sweetness.
- Toothpick test – At 8 minutes, insert a toothpick near the center. A few moist crumbs? Perfect. Wet batter? Give it another minute.
- No donut mold? Make mini muffins! Same temp, but check at 6 minutes. They won’t be ring-shaped, but they’ll taste just as amazing.
- Storage hack – If they last beyond breakfast (ha!), store in an airtight container with a paper towel to absorb moisture.
Remember – your first batch might not be Instagram-perfect, but I promise they’ll still taste incredible!
Ingredient Substitutions & Notes
Listen, I know we don’t always have exactly what a recipe calls for – that’s why I’ve tested all sorts of swaps for these donuts! Here’s what works (and what doesn’t):
- Milk alternatives – Any milk works! I’ve used oat, soy, even watered-down yogurt in desperation. Just keep the same liquid amount.
- Protein powder – Whey, plant-based, collagen peptides – they all work! Chocolate protein powder makes killer chocolate donuts (just add a pinch more sweetener).
- Egg white – No eggs? Try 1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water, but expect a denser texture.
- Oat flour – Blend rolled oats into powder yourself if needed – just measure after blending!
The batter should always be thick but pourable – adjust with tiny amounts of extra flour or milk until it feels right. Baking is art, friends! For more on the science behind using egg whites in baking, check out this resource.
Nutritional Information
Okay, let’s talk numbers – but remember, these are estimates since protein powders and ingredients vary. For one glorious donut (because who’s sharing?), here’s the breakdown:
- 180 calories – Basically a steal for something this delicious
- 15g protein – That’s what makes it stick-to-your-ribs good
- 20g carbs – Mostly from the good stuff like oats
- 5g sugar – And you control how much of that comes from honey
Not too shabby for a donut that tastes like cheating but feels like winning!
FAQ About Air Fryer Protein Donuts
I get questions about these donuts all the time (probably because I won’t stop raving about them to anyone who’ll listen!). Here are the most common ones with my tried-and-true answers:
Can I bake these instead of air frying?
Absolutely! Bake at 350°F in a preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes. Just know they won’t get that same crispy exterior that makes the air fryer version so magical.
How long do leftovers last?
If by some miracle you have leftovers (ha!), store them in an airtight container at room temp for 1 day or in the fridge for up to 3. They’re best fresh though – the texture changes after refrigeration.
Why did my donut stick to the mold?
Two likely culprits: not enough greasing (be generous!) or trying to remove them too soon. Let them cool completely – patience is key!
Can I double this recipe?
Of course! Just mix in a larger bowl and cook in batches. Don’t overcrowd your air fryer – good airflow is what makes these donuts perfect. If you’re looking for other great air fryer recipes to try in batches, check out these chicken tenders.
What toppings do you recommend?
Oh let me count the ways! A drizzle of almond butter, fresh berries, coconut flakes, or my personal favorite – a quick mix of powdered protein powder with a splash of milk for instant “frosting.”
Serving Suggestions
Now for the best part – dressing up your protein donut masterpiece! My go-to moves:
- Slather with Greek yogurt and fresh berries for a protein-packed parfait situation
- Drizzle with warm almond butter (it gets all melty and magical)
- Dust with cinnamon or cocoa powder when I’m feeling fancy-but-lazy
Honestly? They’re pretty darn perfect naked too – no shame in that donut game!
Did You Make This Recipe?
I’d love to hear how your protein donuts turned out! Did you try any fun twists? Leave a comment below – your tips might help the next donut lover. Happy air frying!
Print
1 Irresistible Air Fryer Protein Donut in 10 Minutes Flat
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A quick and easy single-serve protein donut recipe made in an air fryer. Perfect for a healthy snack or breakfast.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup oat flour
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tbsp almond milk
- 1 egg white
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Mix all dry ingredients in a bowl.
- Add wet ingredients and stir until smooth.
- Pour batter into a greased donut mold.
- Air fry at 350°F for 8-10 minutes.
- Let cool before removing from the mold.
Notes
- Adjust sweetness with more or less honey.
- Use any protein powder you prefer.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American