Air Fryer Donuts

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There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly made donuts, warm and soft, with a sweet glaze or cinnamon sugar coating. But traditional donuts can be a bit of a project, often requiring deep frying in oil, which can feel heavy and messy. That’s where these Air Fryer Donuts come in — they’re quick, easy, and delightfully light while still delivering that soft, fluffy texture and irresistible flavor. Perfect for a weekend treat or an anytime snack, this recipe uses simple ingredients and an air fryer to give you donuts that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, without the guilt or fuss.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Air Fryer Donuts recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it significantly cuts down on cooking time and cleanup compared to traditional deep-fried donuts. Plus, using an air fryer means you use far less oil, making the donuts a bit lighter while still maintaining that classic donut taste and texture.

Not only is this recipe incredibly easy to follow, but it’s also highly adaptable. Whether you prefer classic cinnamon sugar, a rich chocolate glaze, or even a dusting of powdered sugar, you can customize these donuts to suit any craving. And best of all? It’s made with everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

If you’ve been craving donuts but wanted a healthier, fuss-free alternative, this recipe is the perfect solution. It’s a great way to enjoy a delicious treat without the hassle and extra calories that come with traditional frying.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for that classic donut flavor)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup milk (use any plant-based milk if preferred)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon melted unsalted butter or neutral oil (like vegetable or canola oil)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Cooking spray or a little oil for greasing the air fryer basket

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)

Optional Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

How To Make Air Fryer Donuts

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, nutmeg (if using), and salt. In a separate small bowl, combine the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. The dough will be slightly sticky but manageable.

Step 2: Shape the Donuts

Lightly flour your work surface. Turn the dough out onto the surface and gently pat it into a rectangle about 1/2-inch thick. Use a donut cutter or two different-sized round cutters (a large one for the donut shape and a smaller one for the hole) to cut out donut shapes. Re-roll any scraps to cut more donuts until the dough is used up.

Step 3: Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with a little oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Air Fry the Donuts

Place the donuts in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch each other (you may need to cook in batches). Cook for 5-6 minutes or until the donuts are golden brown and cooked through. Carefully flip the donuts halfway through cooking for even browning.

Step 5: Add the Toppings

If using cinnamon sugar, brush the warm donuts with melted butter, then toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until coated. For a glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Dip the tops of the warm donuts in the glaze and set on a wire rack to let the glaze set.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your air fryer donuts fresh for the best texture and flavor. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.

Expert Tips

• Make sure not to overmix the dough; mixing until just combined keeps the donuts tender and fluffy.
• If you don’t have a donut cutter, use two round cutters or even a glass and a bottle cap to shape your donuts.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook the donuts in batches if needed to allow hot air to circulate evenly.
• Use a light hand when brushing melted butter on the donuts before the cinnamon sugar coating to ensure it sticks well.
• Experiment with cooking times as every air fryer model varies — start checking your donuts at 5 minutes to avoid overcooking.
• To keep the donuts soft after cooking, store them in an airtight container once they have cooled.

Variations and Customizations

• Chocolate Glazed Donuts: Replace the cinnamon sugar with a chocolate glaze made from melted chocolate and a splash of coconut oil for a rich finish.
• Stuffed Donuts: Before air frying, spoon a teaspoon of jam or Nutella onto half of the donut dough circles, then top with another circle and seal edges before cooking.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes) and use plant-based milk and oil instead of butter.
• Spiced Donuts: Add a pinch of cinnamon, cardamom, or ground ginger directly into the dough for a warm spice flavor.
• Glaze Variations: Try maple glaze, lemon glaze, or even a coffee glaze by mixing powdered sugar with the respective flavoring liquids.
• Sprinkles or Nuts: Add colorful sprinkles or chopped nuts on top of the glaze for extra texture and fun.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any donuts left over (though they rarely last long!), you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them soft, place a slice of bread in the container with the donuts; the bread helps maintain moisture.

For longer storage, freeze the donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature and warm briefly in the air fryer or oven to refresh their softness.

FAQ

Can I use store-bought biscuit dough to make air fryer donuts?

Absolutely! Using canned biscuit dough is a popular shortcut for air fryer donuts. Simply cut holes in the dough to form donut shapes and air fry as directed, adjusting cooking time slightly if needed. It’s an easy way to enjoy fresh donuts with minimal prep.

What if my donuts aren’t cooking evenly in the air fryer?

Make sure you do not overcrowd the basket so hot air can circulate properly. Flip the donuts halfway through cooking to promote even browning. If your air fryer tends to cook unevenly, rotating the basket or switching the position of donuts mid-cook can help.

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup like regular flour. You may need to adjust the amount of milk slightly to get the right dough consistency. Always check your gluten-free blend for any additional ingredients that might affect texture.

How do I prevent the donuts from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Lightly grease the basket with cooking spray or brush it with oil before placing the donuts inside. You can also use perforated parchment paper designed for air fryers to prevent sticking while still allowing air flow.

Conclusion

These Air Fryer Donuts are the perfect blend of convenience and indulgence — soft, fluffy, and full of flavor without the mess and oil of traditional frying. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, a snack, or a fun weekend project, they come together quickly and offer endless opportunities for customization. From classic cinnamon sugar to creative glazes and fillings, you can tailor this recipe to satisfy every craving.

Give this recipe a try and enjoy fresh, homemade donuts anytime, all from the ease of your air fryer. Happy cooking and even happier eating!