Air fryer donuts are a delightful twist on the traditional deep-fried treat. Using an air fryer to prepare these donuts results in a lighter, healthier version that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture. The air fryer not only reduces the amount of oil needed but also simplifies the cooking process, making it quicker and less messy. This recipe guide will walk you through the steps of creating these delicious donuts from scratch, ensuring a fun and satisfying baking experience.

Ingredients Breakdown

To make these delectable air fryer donuts, you will need the following ingredients. For the donuts: 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of lukewarm milk (around 100°F), 2 1/2 teaspoons of active dry yeast or instant yeast, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar plus an additional teaspoon, 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 egg, and coconut oil spray (preferred).

For the glaze, you will need: 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 2 cups of powdered sugar, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 4 tablespoons of hot water (adjust as needed).

Using high-quality ingredients is crucial for achieving the best results. Fresh yeast will ensure the dough rises properly, while real vanilla extract in the glaze will provide a richer flavor. If you prefer, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Begin by preparing the yeast mixture. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment, combine lukewarm milk, 1 tsp of granulated sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture rest for 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial for activating the yeast; if no foam forms, the milk might have been too hot or the yeast too old, so restart with new ingredients.

Next, add the remaining sugar, salt, egg, melted butter, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed until everything is well incorporated. Gradually add the remaining cup of flour while the mixer runs, continuing until the dough no longer clings to the sides of the bowl. Increase the mixer speed to medium-low and knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.

Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, covering it with plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm spot until it has doubled in size. You can check if the dough is ready by pressing a finger into it; if the indentation stays, the dough is ready to use.

Once the dough has risen, place it on a floured surface and gently punch it down. Roll the dough out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a 3-inch round cutter to cut out 10-12 donuts and a 1-inch cutter to remove the centers.

Move the donuts and holes to parchment paper dusted lightly with flour. Cover them loosely with greased plastic wrap and let them rise until they have doubled in size, which should take around 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your air fryer to 350°F.

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with coconut oil spray and carefully place the donuts inside in a single layer. Spray the tops of the donuts with oil spray as well. Cook at 350°F for approximately 4 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Repeat this process for the remaining donuts and holes.

As the donuts cook, prepare the glaze. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Remove from heat and add hot water, one tablespoon at a time, until the glaze reaches a slightly thin but not watery consistency.

When the donuts are done, use two forks to dip each one, along with the donut holes, into the glaze, fully submerging them. Place the glazed donuts on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet to catch any excess glaze. Allow the glaze to harden, which should take about 10 minutes, before serving.

Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

• Ensuring active yeast for a successful rise: Always use fresh yeast and lukewarm milk to activate the yeast properly.
• Best practices for kneading the dough: Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic to ensure a soft texture.
• Techniques for rolling and cutting the dough: Use gentle, even pressure to avoid overworking the dough.
• Tips for using the air fryer effectively: Preheat the air fryer and avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
• Adjusting the glaze consistency to preference: Add hot water gradually to achieve the desired thickness.
• Can different types of flour be used? Yes, you can use gluten-free flour blends or whole wheat flour for a healthier alternative.
• What if I don’t have a stand mixer? You can mix and knead the dough by hand, although it may take longer.
• How can I make the donuts healthier? Use whole wheat flour, reduce the sugar, or try baking instead of air frying.
• Can these donuts be baked instead of air fried? Yes, bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown.
• How to fix common issues with the dough and glaze: If the dough is too sticky, add more flour; if the glaze is too thick, add more hot water.

What to Serve with This Recipe

Pair these delightful air fryer donuts with a variety of beverages such as coffee, tea, or a refreshing glass of milk. For a complete breakfast or brunch, serve them alongside fresh fruit, yogurt, and scrambled eggs. For special occasions, consider setting up a donut bar with various toppings like sprinkles, chocolate chips, and shredded coconut, allowing guests to customize their own donuts.

Storing and Reheating Your Donuts

To maintain freshness, store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the air fryer or microwave to restore their fresh-baked texture.

Air fryer donuts are a delicious and easy treat that can be made with minimal effort and ingredients. The air fryer method offers a healthier alternative to traditional frying, while still providing that beloved crispy exterior and soft interior. Try this recipe for a fun baking project, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family. For more recipes and cooking tips, explore the rest of the blog.

For the Glaze

• 6 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 Tbsp hot water adjust as needed

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the yeast mixture in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment. Combine the lukewarm milk, 1 tsp of granulated sugar, and yeast, stirring gently. Allow this mixture to rest for 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. If no foam forms, the milk might have been too hot or the yeast too old; restart with new ingredients.
2. Next, add the remaining sugar, salt, egg, melted butter, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed until everything is incorporated. Gradually add the remaining cup of flour while the mixer runs, continuing until the dough no longer clings to the sides of the bowl. Increase the mixer speed to medium-low and knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
3. Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, covering it with plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm spot until it has doubled in size. You can check if the dough is ready by pressing a finger into it; if the indentation stays, it’s ready.
4. Once risen, place the dough on a floured surface and gently punch it down. Roll the dough out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a 3-inch round cutter to cut out 10-12 donuts and a 1-inch cutter to remove the centers.
5. Move the donuts and holes to parchment paper dusted lightly with flour. Cover them loosely with greased plastic wrap and let them rise until they have doubled in size, which should take around 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your air fryer to 350°F.
6. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil spray and carefully place the donuts inside in a single layer. Spray the tops of the donuts with oil spray as well. Cook at 350°F for approximately 4 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Repeat this process for the remaining donuts and holes.
7. As the donuts cook, prepare the glaze. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Remove from heat and add hot water, one tablespoon at a time, until the glaze reaches a slightly thin but not watery consistency.
8. When the donuts are done, use two forks to dip each one, along with the donut holes, into the glaze, fully submerging them. Place the glazed donuts on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet to catch any excess glaze. Allow the glaze to harden, which should take about 10 minutes, before serving!

Print Recipe

Air Fryer Donuts made from scratch with yeast dough taste just like the real deal. They are superior to baked versions and contain less fat than traditional deep-fried donuts! Perfect for a quick and healthier homemade treat.

• Author: Natalie
• Prep Time: 30
• Cook Time: 90
• Total Time: 2 hours

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup lukewarm milk around 100°F
• 2 1/2 tsp active dry yeast or instant yeast
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar plus an additional 1 tsp
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 egg
• Coconut oil spray preferred

For the Glaze

• 6 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 Tbsp hot water adjust as needed

Instructions

• Begin by preparing the yeast mixture in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the dough hook attachment. Combine the lukewarm milk, 1 tsp of granulated sugar, and yeast, stirring gently. Allow this mixture to rest for 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. If no foam forms, the milk might have been too hot or the yeast too old; restart with new ingredients.
• Next, add the remaining sugar, salt, egg, melted butter, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Mix on low speed until everything is incorporated. Gradually add the remaining cup of flour while the mixer runs, continuing until the dough no longer clings to the sides of the bowl. Increase the mixer speed to medium-low and knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
• Transfer the dough to a greased bowl, covering it with plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm spot until it has doubled in size. You can check if the dough is ready by pressing a finger into it; if the indentation stays, it’s ready.
• Once risen, place the dough on a floured surface and gently punch it down. Roll the dough out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a 3-inch round cutter to cut out 10-12 donuts and a 1-inch cutter to remove the centers.
• Move the donuts and holes to parchment paper dusted lightly with flour. Cover them loosely with greased plastic wrap and let them rise until they have doubled in size, which should take around 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your air fryer to 350°F.
• Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil spray and carefully place the donuts inside in a single layer. Spray the tops of the donuts with oil spray as well. Cook at 350°F for approximately 4 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Repeat this process for the remaining donuts and holes.
• As the donuts cook, prepare the glaze. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Remove from heat and add hot water, one tablespoon at a time, until the glaze reaches a slightly thin but not watery consistency.
• When the donuts are done, use two forks to dip each one, along with the donut holes, into the glaze, fully submerging them. Place the glazed donuts on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet to catch any excess glaze. Allow the glaze to harden, which should take about 10 minutes, before serving!

Notes

Ensure the milk is not hotter than 115°F, as hot liquid can kill the yeast. If you don’t have an instant-read thermometer, test the temperature by drizzling a few drops of the warmed milk onto the inside of your wrist. It should feel warm; if it feels hot, the yeast will die, and if it feels cold, the yeast will remain inactive.