Who doesn’t love the classic treat of a warm, fluffy donut? Whether dusted with sugar, glazed, or filled with jam, donuts are a perennial favorite. But let’s face it: the deep-fried versions aren’t exactly known for their health benefits. That’s where the magic of air fryer donuts comes in! These irresistibly soft, golden-brown treats are made with far less oil than traditional donuts yet deliver all the sweetness and fluffiness you crave.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make easy air fryer donuts at home. Not only will you discover how to achieve perfectly fluffy results, but you’ll also see why this recipe is a total game-changer. Let’s dive in and see how you can whip up delicious homemade air fryer donuts, all in under 15 minutes of cooking time!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. Healthier Alternative to Deep-Fried Donuts
One of the biggest draws of air fryer donuts is that they’re a much healthier alternative to the traditional version. Instead of deep-frying in vats of oil, air fryers use rapid air circulation to mimic the crisp and golden texture of frying with minimal oil. That means fewer calories, less fat, and no greasy mess what’s not to love?
2. Fast and Convenient
When you’re craving delicious donuts but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this recipe is here to save the day. Unlike baked donuts that require precise oven settings or deep-fried versions that take longer to heat and prepare, air fryer donuts cook in as little as 5–8 minutes.
3. Foolproof Fluffiness
Worried about dry or dense donuts? Fear not! Air frying ensures that the heat is evenly distributed, giving you picture-perfect, fluffy donuts every time. Pair that with your favorite toppings, and you’re in for a treat.
4. Endless Customizations
From air fryer glazed donuts to cinnamon sugar-topped creations, the flavor possibilities are endless. Whether you’re a fan of sweet-and-simple combos or more extravagant options like chocolate drizzle, this recipe adapts effortlessly to your cravings.
Ingredients
Making air fryer donuts at home doesn’t require complicated ingredients. Chances are, you already have most of these in your pantry. Below is a complete list and tips for getting the best results.
Ingredients for the Dough
- All-purpose flour (2 cups): The base for a light and fluffy texture.
- Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons): Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
- Instant yeast (1 packet or 2 ¼ teaspoons): Helps your donuts rise quickly.
- Warm milk (¾ cup): Use whole milk for richer results, but feel free to substitute almond or oat milk.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons, melted): Adds softness and flavor to the dough.
- Egg (1 large): The binder that creates a smooth dough.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness.
Optional Toppings
- Powdered sugar: Perfect for making a classic glaze.
- Cinnamon sugar mixture: Combine ½ cup sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
- Melted chocolate: Drizzle or dip for a decadent touch.
- Sprinkles: For a fun and colorful twist.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the milk is warm but not too hot (about 100–110°F) to activate the yeast properly.
- Use fresh yeast check the expiration date! Stale yeast won’t give you the rise you need.
- If making gluten-free donuts, opt for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s the ultimate guide to making fluffy air fryer donuts from scratch. Don’t worry it’s easier than you think!
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the warm milk and sugar until the sugar dissolves. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, or until it becomes foamy.
- Add the egg, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir to combine.
- Gradually mix in the flour, about 1 cup at a time, until a soft dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
Step 2: Knead and Rise
- On a floured surface, knead the dough for about 5 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Step 3: Shape the Donuts
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Roll it out to about ½-inch thickness using a rolling pin.
- Use a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one larger, one smaller) to cut out your donut shapes. Don’t forget to save the holes you can fry those too!
- Let the cut-out donuts rest for 10–15 minutes to rise slightly before air frying.
Step 4: Air Fry
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F for 5 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray or brush it with oil.
- Place a few donuts in the basket, leaving space between each one. Air fry for 5–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
- Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightl
Expert Tips
- Preheat for Best Results: Letting your air fryer preheat ensures even cooking and a crispy exterior.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in small batches to prevent the donuts from sticking together or cooking unevenly.
- Test Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the donut if it comes out clean, they’re ready.
- Add Moisture: If your air fryer has a tendency to dry out baked goods, place a small bowl of water in the air fryer basket during cooking.
Variations
One of the best things about homemade air fryer donuts is how versatile they are. Here are some fun ideas to try:
1. Classic Glazed Donuts
Whip up a simple glaze using 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and a dash of vanilla. Dip warm donuts in the glaze and let them set for a glossy finish.
2. Chocolate Lovers Donuts
Add a chocolate twist by drizzling melted chocolate over the donuts or dipping them entirely. Top them with crushed nuts or sea salt for extra flair.
3. Jelly-Filled Donuts
Skip the donut cutter and roll the dough into small balls instead. After frying, use a piping bag to inject your favorite jam or jelly into the center.
4. Vegan Version
Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and a flaxseed egg replacement for a dairy-free alternative.
Serving Suggestions
What’s a donut without the perfect pairing? Here are some delicious ways to enjoy your air fryer donuts:
- Coffee and Donuts: Nothing beats this classic duo! Serve warm donuts with your favorite cup of coffee.
- Milkshake Sidekick: Pair with a thick, creamy milkshake for a decadent dessert.
- Party Treats: Arrange a variety of glazed and topped donuts on a platter for a colorful party spread.
FAQ
Q: Do air fryer donuts taste the same as fried donuts?
A: While air fryer donuts are slightly less greasy than deep-fried ones, they still deliver that heavenly fluffy texture and sweet flavor.
Q: Can I use store-bought dough?
A: Absolutely! Pre-made biscuit or crescent dough works wonderfully as a time-saver. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their fluffiness.
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes, just swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your other ingredients, like yeast and toppings, are also gluten-free.
Conclusion
And there you have it the ultimate guide to making air fryer donuts! Quick, easy, and downright irresistible, these donuts prove that homemade treats don’t have to be a hassle. Whether you’re looking for a fun weekend project, a healthier alternative to fried snacks, or a customizable dessert option, this recipe has got you covered.
Ready to give them a try? Gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and watch the magic happen. We promise once you’ve tasted these easy, fluffy air fryer donuts, you won’t want to go back! Happy cooking!
And don’t forget to share your creations by tagging us on social media! We’d love
We hope this recipe inspires you to whip up a batch (or two) and enjoy the magic of homemade air fryer donuts. They’re perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even as a sweet midday pick-me-up.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and toppings after all, the best part of cooking at home is making it your own. So grab your air fryer, get creative, and dive into the deliciousness.
Happy cooking, and here’s to many warm, fluffy donuts ahead! 🍩
Print
7 Irresistible Reasons You’ll Love Air Fryer Donuts: Easy, Fluffy, and Delicious
Learn how to make fluffy and delicious air fryer donuts at home with this quick and easy recipe. Healthier, customizable, and ready in just minutes perfect for any occasion!
- Total Time: 1 hour 23 minutes
- Yield: 10 donuts + holes 1x
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) instant yeast
- ¾ cup warm milk (whole milk preferred, or substitute almond/oat milk)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 large egg
- ½ teaspoon salt
Optional Toppings:
- Powdered sugar
- Cinnamon sugar mixture (½ cup sugar + 1 teaspoon cinnamon)
- Melted chocolate
- Sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together warm milk and sugar until dissolved. Sprinkle yeast on top and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy.
- Add egg, melted butter, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Gradually mix in the flour, 1 cup at a time, to form a soft dough. It should be slightly sticky but manageable.
- Knead and Rise:
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Donuts:
- Roll out the dough to ½-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter (or two round cutters) to shape. Save the holes to fry as well.
- Let the cut-out donuts rest for 10–15 minutes.
- Air Fry:
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F for 5 minutes.
- Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick spray or brush lightly with oil.
- Place donuts in the basket, leaving space between each one. Air fry for 5–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
- Cool and Top:
- Remove from air fryer and let cool slightly. Add your favorite toppings, like powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, or melted chocolate.
Notes
- Ensure milk is 100–110°F for proper yeast activation.
- Use fresh yeast for best results.
- Add a bowl of water inside the air fryer if baked goods tend to dry out.
Pre-made biscuit or crescent dough can be used for quicker results.
- Prep Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Dessert
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 170
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg