Air Fryer Blueberry Cottage Cheese Donut Holes: A Healthy, Bite-Sized Treat

Who says indulgent treats can’t be healthy? The Air Fryer Blueberry Cottage Cheese Donut Holes are a perfect example of a sweet, satisfying snack that’s quick to make, light, and packed with wholesome ingredients. These bite-sized donuts are soft, fluffy, and bursting with fresh blueberries, making them ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a guilt-free dessert. Using cottage cheese and oat flour gives these donut holes a tender, moist texture while adding protein and fiber, keeping you full and energized.

One of the best things about this recipe is its convenience. By using an air fryer, you can achieve golden, lightly crisped donut holes without deep-frying, which means less oil and less mess. The result is a healthier version of a classic favorite without sacrificing flavor or texture. Honey adds natural sweetness, while baking powder ensures the donut holes rise perfectly, resulting in a soft, airy bite every time.

This recipe is also versatile. You can swap in other berries, use almond flour for a nutty flavor, or even add a touch of vanilla or cinnamon for extra warmth. The donut holes are easy to make ahead and reheat beautifully in the air fryer, making them perfect for busy mornings or last-minute snacks.

Ingredients:

½ cup cottage cheese
1 egg
½ cup oat flour
2 tablespoons honey
½ cup fresh blueberries
1 teaspoon baking powder
Pinch of salt

Method:

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Preheating ensures even cooking and helps the donut holes achieve a light golden color without sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cottage cheese, egg, and honey. Mix until smooth and well incorporated. In a separate bowl, whisk together the oat flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a thick, slightly sticky batter forms. Be gentle when mixing in the blueberries to avoid crushing them and turning the batter purple.

Step 3: Form the Donut Holes
Using a small cookie scoop or a spoon, portion the batter into small balls, roughly 1 to 1½ inches in diameter. If the batter is sticky, lightly wet your hands or the spoon with water to make shaping easier. Place the donut holes in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring there is space between each to allow for even cooking.

Step 4: Air Fry the Donut Holes
Cook the donut holes in the preheated air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes, or until golden brown and set in the center. The exact time may vary depending on your air fryer model, so check for doneness by gently pressing a donut hole—it should spring back slightly.

Step 5: Cool and Serve
Remove the donut holes from the air fryer and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. Serve warm, or allow them to cool completely and store in an airtight container. They can be enjoyed plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or drizzled with a little extra honey for added sweetness.

Tips and Variations:

• Berry Options: Swap blueberries with raspberries, chopped strawberries, or blackberries for different flavors.
• Flour Variations: Almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend can be used in place of oat flour.
• Sweetener Alternatives: Maple syrup or agave can replace honey if desired.
• Flavor Boosts: Add ½ teaspoon vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth and depth.
• Make-Ahead: Store baked donut holes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes for a fresh taste.
• Freezing: These donut holes freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the air fryer straight from frozen for a few minutes.

Conclusion:
Air Fryer Blueberry Cottage Cheese Donut Holes are a wholesome, protein-packed treat that’s soft, fluffy, and naturally sweet. They are quick to prepare, healthier than traditional fried donuts, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or snacks. With their tender texture and juicy blueberries, they are sure to become a favorite in your household, satisfying cravings without guilt.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q1: Can I make these vegan?
Yes, replace the egg with a flax or chia egg and use a plant-based sweetener such as maple syrup instead of honey.

Q2: Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, but thaw and drain them first to prevent excess moisture from making the batter too wet.

Q3: How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore freshness.

Q4: Can I bake these in the oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake on a lined baking sheet for 12–15 minutes, or until golden and set.

Q5: Can I add other mix-ins?
Absolutely. Mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut can be folded into the batter for extra flavor and texture.

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These Air Fryer Blueberry Cottage Cheese Donut Holes are the perfect combination of wholesome ingredients and sweet indulgence, offering a satisfying bite any time of day.