3-Ingredient Donut Holes Recipe – Quick & Easy Treat in 15 Minutes

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Introduction

Craving something sweet and fast? You’re in luck. These 3-ingredient donut holes are the answer. They’re soft, golden, and full of flavor. You don’t need any fancy tools or skills. Just mix, roll, and fry. It’s that simple.

With only three basic ingredients, you can make a warm, fresh treat in just 15 minutes. No yeast. No long prep. Just quick results.

They’re perfect for any time of day. Serve them for breakfast with coffee, enjoy them as a snack, or bring them to your next party. Everyone will love their light and fluffy texture.

You can even coat them with sugar or cinnamon for extra flavor. Want to impress with no stress? This quick donut holes recipe is your new go-to.

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Why You’ll Love These 3-Ingredient Donut Holes

Ready in Just 15 Minutes

You don’t need to wait long. This quick donut holes recipe takes only 15 minutes from start to finish. It’s great when you need a fast treat.

Only Pantry Staples Needed

No need for a long grocery list. These 3-ingredient donut holes use simple things you already have at home. That makes them budget-friendly too.

No Yeast or Complicated Steps

Forget rising time. There’s no yeast involved. Just mix, roll, and cook. Anyone can do it—no baking skills needed.

Versatile for Toppings and Fillings

Make them your way. Roll them in cinnamon sugar or drizzle with chocolate. You can even fill them with jam or Nutella. These homemade donut holes are easy to customize.

Perfect for Beginners or Quick Cravings

This recipe is simple and fast. It’s ideal for new cooks or busy days. When you want something sweet and easy, this is it.

These easy donut hole treats hit all the right notes—fast, tasty, and fun to make.

Ingredients You Need for This Donut Hole Recipe

Three bowls with key ingredients for 3-ingredient donut holes: flour, sugar, and Greek yogurt on a wooden surface.
All you need: flour, sugar, and yogurt—just three ingredients to make delicious homemade donut holes.

Self-Rising Flour or Pancake Mix

Start with a base. Use self-rising flour or pancake mix. Both work well. Pancake mix gives a slightly sweeter flavor. Choose what you have at home.

Greek Yogurt or Milk

For the wet ingredient, use Greek yogurt or milk. Greek yogurt makes the dough thick and rich. Milk makes it light and smooth. Pick the texture you like best.

Sugar (Granulated or Powdered)

Coat the donut holes in granulated sugar for a classic finish. Or try powdered sugar for a soft, sweet touch. Either adds great flavor.

Optional Add-Ons: Cinnamon, Vanilla, Jam

Add extra taste with cinnamon, vanilla, or a spoon of jam. These boost flavor without extra effort. Keep it simple, or get creative.

Where to Buy Ingredients or Substitutes to Use

Find all items at any grocery store. Use plain flour with baking powder if you don’t have self-rising flour. No yogurt? Try sour cream. These easy donut ingredients are flexible and affordable.

These simple items make the best 3-ingredient donut holes—quick, tasty, and easy to find.

How to Make 3-Ingredient Donut Holes – Step-by-Step

Mix the Dough (No Mixer Needed)

Add your self-rising flour and Greek yogurt to a bowl. Stir until it forms a soft dough. You don’t need a mixer. A spoon or your hands work just fine.

Roll into Small Balls Evenly

Dust your hands with a little flour. Roll the dough into small, even balls. This helps them cook the same way. Keep the size bite-sized for best results.

Fry or Air Fry Until Golden Brown

Heat oil in a pan or use an air fryer. Fry the donut holes until golden and puffy. Turn them often for an even color. Air frying is great for a lighter version.

Coat in Sugar, Cinnamon, or Glaze

Let them cool for a minute. Then roll them in sugar, cinnamon, or drizzle with glaze. This gives your 3-ingredient donut holes a sweet, tasty finish.

Pro Tips for Texture and Doneness

Don’t overcrowd the pan. It lowers the oil temp. Cook in small batches for best texture. If using an air fryer, preheat it. Check doneness by cutting one open—it should be cooked through and fluffy.

This easy donut holes recipe is quick, fun, and full of flavor with every step.

Tips & Variations for the Perfect Donut Holes

A beige bowl filled with golden-brown sugar-coated 3-ingredient donut holes on a wooden table.
Freshly made 3-ingredient donut holes, coated in sugar and ready to enjoy.

Add-Ins: Mini Chocolate Chips, Sprinkles, or Fruit

Want extra flavor or color? Mix in mini chocolate chips, colorful sprinkles, or small fruit pieces like blueberries. These turn your 3-ingredient donut holes into something fun and festive.

Stuffed Versions: Nutella, Jam, or Cream Cheese

You can fill the dough with Nutella, sweet jam, or soft cream cheese. Just place a small spoon inside the ball before sealing it. Cook the same way for a gooey surprise inside.

Fry vs Air Fry: Texture and Health Difference

Frying gives a crispier outside and rich flavor. Air frying is lighter and uses no oil. Both work well. Choose what fits your taste or diet. Either way, you get easy homemade donut holes fast.

Make Ahead and Freeze Instructions

You can make the dough ahead of time. Wrap it well and chill for up to one day. You can also freeze shaped donut holes. Fry them straight from frozen—just cook a little longer.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight box. Keep them at room temp for a day or in the fridge for three days. Reheat in an air fryer or microwave for 10–15 seconds. They’ll taste fresh again.

Use these smart tips to get the best results from your quick donut holes recipe every time.

What to Serve with These Quick Donut Holes

Coffee, Tea, or Hot Chocolate

Pair your 3-ingredient donut holes with a warm drink. Coffee adds a bold flavor. Tea keeps it light. Hot chocolate makes it extra cozy. These combos turn a simple treat into a special moment.

Kids’ Version: Warm Milk or Fruit Smoothies

Kids love these easy donut holes too. Serve them with warm milk or a cold fruit smoothie. It’s a fun and tasty snack they’ll ask for again and again.

Serve with Ice Cream or Whipped Cream

Take things up a notch. Add a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. The warm donuts and cold toppings make a perfect match.

Wrap Them for Gifting or Party Platters

These quick donut holes also make great gifts. Wrap them in small boxes or bags. Or add them to a party platter for birthdays, holidays, or get-togethers.

Turn Them into Donut Hole Skewers for Fun Presentations

Want a creative touch? Slide donut holes onto sticks. Add fruit or marshmallows between each. It’s fun, easy to grab, and looks great on any table.

These serving ideas make your homemade donut holes even more enjoyable for everyone.

3-Ingredient Donut Holes

A plate of golden, sugar-coated 3-ingredient donut holes served with coffee and strawberries on a vibrant summer breakfast table.

3-Ingredient Donut Holes

These 3-ingredient donut holes are quick, easy, and perfect for a sweet treat. Made with self-rising flour, Greek yogurt, and sugar, they come together in just 15 minutes and are golden, fluffy, and delicious. Ideal for breakfast, snacks, or last-minute cravings.
Prep Time 8 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 16 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Breakfast, brunch, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 220

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup self-rising flour or pancake mix
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt plain, full-fat works best
  • ½ cup granulated sugar for coating

Method
 

  1. Mix flour and yogurt in a bowl until a sticky dough forms.
  2. Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch each).
  3. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
  4. Fry donut holes in batches until golden brown (about 2–3 minutes per side).
  5. Drain on paper towels, then roll in sugar while still warm.

FAQS

1. What are 3-ingredient donut holes made of?

They’re usually made with self-rising flour (or pancake mix), Greek yogurt or milk, and sugar for coating. Simple and quick!

2. Can I make these donut holes without frying?

Yes! You can air fry them for a lighter version. They turn out golden and soft with less oil.

3. Do I need yeast to make this recipe?

No, this 3-ingredient donut hole recipe is yeast-free. That’s what makes it fast and beginner-friendly.

4. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of self-rising?

Yes, but add 1½ teaspoons of baking powder per cup of flour to help the dough rise.

5. How long do these donut holes stay fresh?

They taste best the same day. You can store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

These 3-ingredient donut holes are quick, easy, and totally satisfying. You don’t need fancy tools or skills. Just simple ingredients and 15 minutes.

Give this easy donut holes recipe a try. It’s perfect for beginners and fun for pros too. Customize them with your favorite toppings or fillings. They never disappoint.

Let us know how yours turn out. Drop a comment below and share your tips or twists.

If you loved this, don’t forget to save this recipe or pin it for later. Sweet treats like these are worth keeping close!

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