If you’re craving a sweet treat that’s both delicious and healthier, look no further than this Air Fryer Donuts recipe. Perfectly light and fluffy, these donuts are made using an air fryer, reducing the need for excessive oil while delivering the same satisfying taste and texture of traditional fried donuts. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is simple and rewarding. Let’s dive into how you can make these delightful donuts right in your kitchen!
Why Choose Air Fryer Donuts?
Air fryer donuts are a fantastic alternative to their deep-fried counterparts. Here are a few reasons why you should give this recipe a try:
- Healthier Option: Air frying uses significantly less oil, making these donuts a better choice for those watching their calorie intake.
- Quick and Easy: The air fryer cooks quickly, reducing preparation and cooking time compared to traditional methods.
- Less Mess: With minimal oil, cleanup is a breeze compared to frying in a pan.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these scrumptious air fryer donuts, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the coating:
- ¼ cup melted butter
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer:
Start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your donuts cook evenly and have that perfect golden-brown exterior.
2. Prepare the Dough:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a smooth dough forms.
3. Shape the Donuts:
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about ½ inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one larger and one smaller) to cut out the donut shapes. If you don’t have a donut cutter, you can use a cup to cut out the large circle and a smaller object for the hole.
4. Air Fry the Donuts:
Place the donuts in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches. Air fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and cooked through.
5. Coat the Donuts:
While the donuts are still warm, brush them with melted butter and then dip them into a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon. This step adds a deliciously sweet and slightly spicy flavor that complements the soft, airy donut perfectly.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Donuts
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Give each donut enough space to cook evenly.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your air fryer model, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different coatings, such as powdered sugar, chocolate glaze, or a maple syrup dip.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These air fryer donuts are a game-changer for anyone who loves a good donut but wants a lighter version. The air fryer gives them a crispy exterior while keeping the inside fluffy and moist. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon snack, these donuts are sure to become a family favorite.
Serving and Storage Tips for Air Fryer Donuts
Once you’ve made your delicious air fryer donuts, here are some serving and storage tips to ensure they stay fresh and enjoyable:
Serving Tips
- Serve Warm: Air fryer donuts are best enjoyed fresh and warm. If they’ve cooled down, you can quickly reheat them in the air fryer for a minute or two to restore their freshness.
- Pair with Beverages: These donuts pair perfectly with a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. They make a delightful addition to a breakfast or brunch spread.
- Garnish Ideas: For added flair, consider garnishing your donuts with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce, or a sprinkle of chopped nuts.
- Add Fruit: Serve your donuts with fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced apples, for a balanced treat that combines sweetness with a bit of tartness.
Storage Tips
- Cool Completely: Before storing, let the donuts cool completely on a wire rack to prevent moisture buildup, which can make them soggy.
- Airtight Container: Store cooled donuts in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the donuts. Place them in an airtight container, and they’ll stay fresh for up to a week. To enjoy them warm, reheat in the air fryer for a minute or two.
- Freezing: To extend their shelf life, you can freeze air fryer donuts. Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, let them sit at room temperature or reheat them in the air fryer.
By following these serving and storage tips, you’ll ensure that your air fryer donuts remain delicious and enjoyable, whether you’re serving them immediately or saving them for later. Enjoy every bite of your homemade treats!
1. Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can use various types of flour, but keep in mind that substitutions may affect the texture and taste of the donuts. For a gluten-free option, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Whole wheat flour can also be used for a denser, nuttier flavor. If using alternative flours, you might need to adjust the liquid amounts slightly.
2. How can I make these donuts vegan?
To make vegan air fryer donuts, you can replace the egg with a flaxseed or chia egg. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water, and let it sit for a few minutes until it becomes gel-like. Use this mixture in place of the egg. For the butter, substitute with melted coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
3. Can I make the donut dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the donut dough ahead of time. After mixing, cover the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, roll out and cut the donuts as usual. Allow the dough to come to room temperature before shaping and air frying.
4. How do I reheat leftover donuts?
To reheat leftover donuts, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 1-2 minutes. This will help restore their crispy exterior and warm interior. If you don’t have an air fryer, you can use a conventional oven set to 350°F (175°C) and heat the donuts on a baking sheet for a few minutes until warm. Avoid using a microwave as it can make the donuts soggy.