27 Calorie Donut Holes

The scent of freshly baked dough—warm, inviting, and sweet without a trace of guilt—reminds me of the afternoons I spent experimenting with healthier treats in my tiny kitchen. These donut holes sprung from a moment when I craved something indulgent but refused to sacrifice my low-calorie goals. What started as a simple mix of three ingredients quickly became a staple for whenever I needed that little sweet fix.

The first time I swapped regular sugar for monk fruit sweetener, I half-expected the texture to take a nosedive or the flavor to feel flat. Instead, I discovered it added just the right touch of sweetness without the aftertaste, making these donut holes surprisingly satisfying.

Essential Ingredients

• Self-rising flour: The foundation that gives these donut holes their light, springy texture. Opt for fresh packages with a slightly nutty aroma to ensure active leavening agents.
• Plain nonfat Greek yogurt: Adds moisture and a subtle tang, balancing the sweetness and keeping fat out of the equation. Choose brands with thick consistency and no added sugars.
• Monk fruit sweetener: A zero-calorie alternative that gives these treats their sweetness without spiking blood sugar. Look for pure monk fruit extracts or blends without fillers for the cleanest flavor.
• Zero-calorie powdered sweetener (optional glaze): Use this to make a glossy glaze that adds just a kiss of sweetness and a pretty finish.

If you’re shopping, fresh self-rising flour can make all the difference, as expired leavening powder can dull the rise. Also, Greek yogurt with high protein content will keep the dough tender but not soggy.

Cooking Process

Kneading the Dough – Uniting Ingredients by Hand:

No spoon can coax this dough into a cohesive ball; use your hands to gently fold and press until the flour and yogurt meld into a pliable, slightly sticky dough. This tactile step ensures the proper consistency for rolling.

Portioning – Equal Bites for Even Cooking:

Divide the dough into roughly 15-gram portions—about the size of a walnut—so each donut hole cooks uniformly without over- or under-done centers.

Air Frying – Crisp Edges Meet Tender Centers:

At 400°F for 6 to 7 minutes, the air fryer delivers a magic balance: golden coloring on the outside and soft, fluffy interiors. This method saves oil and keeps the calorie count low, unlike traditional deep-frying.

Glazing – Optional Sweet Finish:

Whisk zero-calorie powdered sweetener with a splash of water until smooth. Dunk each warm donut hole briefly to coat, allowing the glaze to cool and set with a delicate sheen.

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Recipe Highlights

• Low-calorie indulgence with only 27 calories each, perfect for mindful snacking.
• Sugar and fat-free, making it diabetic-friendly and suitable for low-salt diets.
• Greek yogurt adds a touch of protein to keep you satisfied.

For a twist, try mixing in cinnamon or nutmeg before kneading—I've learned that small flavor boosts turn these simple treats into little celebrations. Once, I overfilled my air fryer basket, resulting in doughy centers, a great reminder that spacing matters for crisp finishes.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prep the dough a day ahead and refrigerate it loosely covered. Just bring it to room temperature before shaping and air frying to get that perfect texture. Leftover donut holes hold up well in airtight containers for up to two days, making them easy grab-and-go snacks.

Flavor Variations

Experiment with adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or swapping monk fruit for erythritol for a slightly different sweetness profile. Another favorite is stirring in finely grated lemon zest—brightens the palate beautifully.

Kitchen Tool Recommendations

An air fryer is key here if you want that crispy crust without extra oil, but a conventional oven set to 400°F works well if you don’t have one. A simple kitchen scale will help with equal portions, ensuring consistent cooking.

Cooking Secrets

1. Don’t rush the dough mixing—hand kneading melds flour and yogurt perfectly for the right texture.
2. Give the air fryer basket space; overcrowding traps steam and prevents browning.
3. Dip donut holes in glaze while still warm—this helps the coating stick and sets it with a light sheen.

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Common Questions

→ What ingredients make these donut holes low calorie?

The use of plain nonfat Greek yogurt and a zero-calorie sweetener instead of traditional sugar and fat reduces calories significantly.

→ Can I bake these donut holes instead of air frying?

Yes, baking at 400°F works well. Cook until the donut holes are lightly browned, usually around 6-7 minutes.

→ How do I know when the donut holes are done?

They are ready once they turn golden-brown and feel firm but still tender to touch.

→ Is the glaze necessary for these donut holes?

The glaze is optional and adds a lightly sweet finish without sugar, enhancing taste without extra calories.

→ Can I use a different sweetener?

Yes, you may substitute another zero-calorie sweetener, but it’s best to choose one that won’t affect texture or cooking time noticeably.

→ How should I store leftover donut holes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for longer freshness.