Air fryer Easter carrot cake donut holes started after I tried making full-sized carrot cake donuts that turned out dry around the edges. I wanted something bite-sized, moist, and perfect for brunch. My first batch browned too quickly and stayed doughy inside. After testing this three ways, lower temperature, finer grated carrots, and smaller scoops, I finally nailed it. Keeping the heat moderate and the portions small gave me golden outsides with soft, tender centers every time.
Why This Air Fryer Easter Carrot Cake Donut Holes Recipe Works
Traditional baked donuts cook at 350°F, but air fryers move heat faster. I discovered that 320°F (160°C) allows these donut holes to cook through gently without overbrowning.
Finely grated carrots distribute moisture evenly, preventing dense pockets. A small amount of oil plus Greek yogurt keeps the crumb tender without feeling heavy. Rolling them into compact balls ensures even airflow around each piece. These air fryer Easter carrot cake donut holes come out fluffy inside with lightly crisp edges.
Timing for Air Fryer Easter Carrot Cake Donut Holes
Prep Time: 8 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 15–18 minutes
Ingredients for Air Fryer Easter Carrot Cake Donut Holes
Simple ingredients create classic carrot cake flavor.
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 large egg
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons neutral oil
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup finely grated carrots
Optional Add-Ins:
- 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts
- 1 tablespoon raisins
Cream Cheese Glaze (Optional):
- 2 tablespoons softened cream cheese
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1–2 teaspoons milk
How to Make Easter Carrot Cake Donut Holes in the Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C) for 3 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk egg and brown sugar until smooth.
- Stir in Greek yogurt, oil, and vanilla.
- Fold in finely grated carrots.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions and gently roll into balls with lightly floured hands.
- Place donut holes in the air fryer basket lined with parchment (with holes for airflow), leaving space between each.
- Air fry at 320°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes until lightly golden and internal temperature reaches about 200°F (93°C).
- Let cool for 5 minutes before glazing.
- Whisk glaze ingredients and drizzle lightly over cooled donut holes.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Easter Carrot Cake Donut Holes
- Grate carrots finely: Prevents uneven texture.
- Keep portions small: Ensures even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd: Airflow is essential.
- Check at 8 minutes: Air fryers vary in intensity.
- Cool before glazing: Prevents glaze from melting off.
- Extra moisture boost: Add 1 tablespoon applesauce if desired.
Storing and Reheating Easter Carrot Cake Donut Holes
Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze unglazed donut holes for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Air fry at 300°F (150°C) for 2–3 minutes until warmed through.
Variations:
- Roll warm donut holes in cinnamon sugar instead of glaze.
- Add shredded coconut for extra texture.
- Make them protein-packed by adding 1 tablespoon vanilla protein powder (add 1 teaspoon milk).
- Dip half in melted white chocolate for a festive Easter finish.
Conclusion
Air fryer Easter carrot cake donut holes are one of my favorite spring brunch treats. They’re moist, warmly spiced, and perfectly bite-sized. The air fryer makes them quick and evenly cooked, so you get bakery-style flavor without the fuss.
