{"id":14365,"date":"2025-07-15T14:19:59","date_gmt":"2025-07-15T14:19:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/airfryer-tips.us\/en\/?p=14365"},"modified":"2025-07-15T14:19:59","modified_gmt":"2025-07-15T14:19:59","slug":"easy-air-fryer-donuts-12","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/airfryer-tips.us\/en\/easy-air-fryer-donuts-12\/","title":{"rendered":"EASY AIR FRYER DONUTS"},"content":{"rendered":"

EASY AIR FRYER DONUTS: A Delicious Homemade Delight Without the Deep Fryer<\/strong><\/h1>\n

Introduction<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Donuts \u2013 the golden rings of happiness \u2013 have long been a staple of comfort food across cultures. Whether it\u2019s a classic glazed donut from your favorite bakery, or a chocolate-dipped delight filled with rich cream, donuts are universally loved. However, traditional donuts are typically deep-fried, often loaded with excess oil, and not always the best option for those seeking a healthier lifestyle.<\/p>\n

Enter the air fryer<\/strong>: a revolutionary kitchen appliance that gives you the ability to achieve that crispy, golden-brown texture without deep frying. In this recipe, we\u2019ll explore how to make easy air fryer donuts<\/strong> that are not only delicious but also significantly lighter than their deep-fried counterparts.<\/p>\n

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat, these donuts are quick, easy, and highly customizable<\/strong>. You\u2019ll be amazed at how simple ingredients and a touch of creativity can deliver bakery-style results at home.<\/p>\n

In this article, you’ll discover:<\/p>\n

    \n
  • \n

    Why air fryer donuts are a game-changer<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

  • \n

    Ingredients and tools you’ll need<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

  • \n

    Step-by-step instructions for making both biscuit-based and yeast-based air fryer donuts<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

  • \n

    Tips for glazes and toppings<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

  • \n

    Nutritional insights<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

  • \n

    Troubleshooting and FAQ<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

  • \n

    Final thoughts and serving suggestions<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    Let\u2019s dive into the delicious world of air fryer donuts<\/strong> that are crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside \u2013 and entirely irresistible.<\/p>\n

    Recipe: How to Make Easy Air Fryer Donuts<\/strong><\/h2>\n

    \u2705 Option 1: 10-Minute Air Fryer Donuts with Canned Biscuit Dough<\/h3>\n

    If you\u2019re short on time or new to baking, this version is your best friend. All you need is refrigerated biscuit dough<\/strong> and a few pantry staples. In under 15 minutes, you\u2019ll be snacking on warm, golden donuts that taste like a bakery indulgence.<\/p>\n

    \ud83e\uddfe Ingredients:<\/h3>\n
      \n
    • \n

      1 can of refrigerated biscuit dough (such as Pillsbury Grands)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

    • \n

      2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

    • \n

      \u00bd cup granulated sugar<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

    • \n

      1 tablespoon ground cinnamon<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      \ud83c\udf74 Tools:<\/h3>\n
        \n
      • \n

        Air fryer<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

      • \n

        Small round cutter or bottle cap (for the donut holes)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

      • \n

        Pastry brush<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

      • \n

        Mixing bowl<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

      • \n

        Tongs<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        \ud83d\udc69\u200d\ud83c\udf73 Instructions:<\/h3>\n

        Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer<\/h4>\n

        Preheat your air fryer to 350\u00b0F (175\u00b0C) for about 3\u20135 minutes. This ensures even cooking and optimal browning.<\/p>\n

        Step 2: Prepare the Donuts<\/h4>\n

        Open the can of biscuit dough and separate the biscuits. Using a small round cutter or the cap from a bottle, cut out a hole from the center of each biscuit to form donut shapes. Keep the cut-out centers \u2014 they make perfect donut holes<\/strong>!<\/p>\n

        Step 3: Air Fry the Donuts<\/h4>\n

        Spray or brush the air fryer basket lightly with oil to prevent sticking. Place 3\u20134 donuts in the basket without overlapping (you may need to work in batches). Air fry at 350\u00b0F for 5\u20136 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the donuts are golden brown and puffed.<\/p>\n

        Step 4: Coat the Donuts<\/h4>\n

        While the donuts are still warm, brush them with melted butter and roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture (made by combining the sugar and cinnamon in a bowl). You can also dip them in vanilla or chocolate glaze (more on that below).<\/p>\n

        Step 5: Serve and Enjoy<\/h4>\n

        Let the donuts cool slightly and enjoy warm. They’re best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days.<\/p>\n

        \ud83e\udd44 Optional Glaze & Toppings<\/h2>\n

        While cinnamon sugar is a classic, here are some other topping ideas<\/strong>:<\/p>\n

        \ud83c\udf6b Chocolate Glaze<\/h3>\n
          \n
        • \n

          \u00bd cup chocolate chips<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

        • \n

          2 tablespoons butter<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

        • \n

          1 tablespoon corn syrup (optional for shine)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

        • \n

          2 tablespoons milk<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

          Instructions<\/strong>: Microwave all ingredients together in 20-second bursts, stirring between each, until smooth.<\/p>\n

          \ud83c\udf6f Classic Vanilla Glaze<\/h3>\n
            \n
          • \n

            1 cup powdered sugar<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

          • \n

            2\u20133 tablespoons milk<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

          • \n

            \u00bd teaspoon vanilla extract<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

            Instructions<\/strong>: Whisk until smooth and dip your warm donuts in. Let them sit for a few minutes to set.<\/p>\n

            \ud83c\udf53 Strawberry Glaze<\/h3>\n
              \n
            • \n

              \u00bd cup powdered sugar<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

            • \n

              1 tablespoon milk<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

            • \n

              1 tablespoon strawberry jam or pur\u00e9e<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

              Instructions<\/strong>: Mix together for a pink fruity glaze.<\/p>\n

              \ud83c\udf69 Option 2: Yeast-Based Air Fryer Donuts (From Scratch)<\/h2>\n

              If you’re looking for a more authentic bakery-style donut<\/strong>, this yeast-raised version is the real deal. Though it takes more time, the results are light, fluffy, and wonderfully chewy \u2013 just like traditional donuts, but with much less oil<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

              \ud83e\uddfe Ingredients:<\/h3>\n

              For the dough:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                \n
              • \n

                2 \u00bc teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

              • \n

                \u00be cup warm milk (100\u2013110\u00b0F \/ 38\u201343\u00b0C)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

              • \n

                2 tablespoons granulated sugar<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

              • \n

                1 large egg<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

              • \n

                2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

              • \n

                2 \u00bd cups all-purpose flour<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

              • \n

                \u00bd teaspoon salt<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                For brushing:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                  \n
                • \n

                  2 tablespoons melted butter<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                  For topping:<\/strong><\/p>\n

                    \n
                  • \n

                    Cinnamon sugar or glaze (see above)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                    \ud83c\udf74 Tools:<\/h3>\n
                      \n
                    • \n

                      Mixing bowls<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

                    • \n

                      Stand mixer (optional)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

                    • \n

                      Rolling pin<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

                    • \n

                      Donut cutter or two round cutters<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

                    • \n

                      Air fryer<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

                    • \n

                      Pastry brush<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                      \ud83d\udc69\u200d\ud83c\udf73 Instructions:<\/h3>\n

                      Step 1: Activate the Yeast<\/h4>\n

                      In a bowl, mix the warm milk with sugar and sprinkle the yeast on top. Let sit for 5\u201310 minutes until bubbly. If it doesn\u2019t foam, your yeast may be inactive\u2014try again with a fresh packet.<\/p>\n

                      Step 2: Make the Dough<\/h4>\n

                      Add the egg, melted butter, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Mix with a spoon or use a stand mixer with a dough hook. Gradually add the remaining flour until a soft dough forms. Knead for about 8 minutes by hand or 5 minutes with a mixer until smooth and elastic.<\/p>\n

                      Step 3: Let It Rise<\/h4>\n

                      Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours or until doubled in size.<\/p>\n

                      Step 4: Shape the Donuts<\/h4>\n

                      Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to \u00bd inch thickness. Cut out donut shapes and place them on parchment paper. Let them rise again for 30\u201345 minutes until puffy.<\/p>\n

                      Step 5: Air Fry<\/h4>\n

                      Preheat the air fryer to 350\u00b0F. Place 3\u20134 donuts in the basket and air fry for 4\u20135 minutes until golden and cooked through. Brush with melted butter immediately and roll in sugar or dip in glaze.<\/p>\n

                      Step 6: Cool and Serve<\/h4>\n

                      Let the donuts cool slightly before enjoying. Glaze or top as desired.<\/p>\n

                      \ud83c\udf69 Bonus: Donut Holes in the Air Fryer<\/h2>\n

                      Don\u2019t waste those centers! Toss the donut holes<\/strong> into the air fryer for 3\u20134 minutes at 350\u00b0F<\/strong>. Then roll them in butter and cinnamon sugar or dip them in glaze. They\u2019re bite-sized bursts of happiness!<\/p>\n

                      \ud83d\udd04 Variations and Add-ins<\/h2>\n
                        \n
                      • \n

                        Filled Donuts<\/strong>: Skip the hole, cook the whole biscuit or dough, and once cooled, fill with jam, custard, or Nutella using a piping bag.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

                      • \n

                        Vegan Version<\/strong>: Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives. Many canned biscuit doughs are accidentally vegan.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

                      • \n

                        Gluten-Free Option<\/strong>: Use a gluten-free baking mix instead of regular flour for homemade dough.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                        \ud83e\udde0 Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Donuts<\/h2>\n
                          \n
                        1. \n

                          Don\u2019t Overcrowd<\/strong>: Air needs to circulate. Cook in batches.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

                        2. \n

                          Brush Lightly with Butter<\/strong>: This helps toppings stick and mimics that fried flavor.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

                        3. \n

                          Don\u2019t Skip Preheating<\/strong>: An even start gives better rise and color.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

                        4. \n

                          Use Parchment Paper<\/strong>: Prevents sticking if your air fryer basket tends to cling.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

                        5. \n

                          Use a Thermometer<\/strong>: Optional, but for yeast donuts, internal temp should be ~190\u00b0F when done.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

                          \ud83e\udd57 Nutrition Snapshot (Biscuit Version per donut, approx.)<\/h2>\n
                            \n
                          • \n

                            Calories: 200\u2013250<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

                          • \n

                            Fat: 10g<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

                          • \n

                            Carbs: 25g<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

                          • \n

                            Protein: 3g<\/p>\n<\/li>\n

                          • \n

                            Sugar: 10g (varies with toppings)<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                            This is roughly 30\u201340% fewer calories and 70\u201380% less fat<\/strong> than deep-fried donuts.<\/p>\n

                            \u2753 Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n

                            Can I make these donuts ahead of time?<\/h3>\n

                            You can make the dough and refrigerate it overnight for the yeast version. Biscuit-based ones are best fresh.<\/p>\n

                            How do I store leftovers?<\/h3>\n

                            Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 1\u20132 minutes.<\/p>\n

                            Can I freeze air fryer donuts?<\/h3>\n

                            Yes! Freeze baked or unbaked yeast donuts for up to 2 months. Thaw and air fry or reheat.<\/p>\n

                            Do I need to flip the donuts?<\/h3>\n

                            Yes, flipping halfway ensures even browning and prevents one side from being soggy.<\/p>\n

                            \ud83c\udf89 Conclusion<\/h2>\n

                            Making easy air fryer donuts<\/strong> at home is a delightful way to enjoy one of life\u2019s sweetest treats\u2014without the hassle and heaviness of deep frying. Whether you opt for the super-speedy biscuit version<\/strong> or the more traditional yeast-raised method<\/strong>, the results are golden, fluffy, and entirely satisfying.<\/p>\n

                            This recipe offers something for everyone\u2014from novice bakers looking for a fun weekend activity to seasoned home cooks seeking a healthier take on indulgence. The air fryer has transformed the way we approach everyday cooking, and donuts are no exception.<\/p>\n

                            With endless possibilities for glazes, toppings, and fillings<\/strong>, you can personalize these donuts to your heart\u2019s content. From chocolate drizzles to jelly-filled centers or cinnamon sugar coatings, there\u2019s no wrong way to enjoy them.<\/p>\n

                            So, the next time a donut craving strikes, skip the drive-thru. Head to your kitchen, pull out the air fryer, and whip up a batch of irresistible homemade donuts<\/strong> in minutes.<\/p>\n

                            Because sometimes, the best things in life are just a few ingredients and a crispy golden swirl away. \ud83c\udf69\u2728<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

                            EASY AIR FRYER DONUTS: A Delicious Homemade Delight Without the Deep Fryer Introduction Donuts \u2013 the golden rings of happiness \u2013 have long been a staple of comfort food across cultures. Whether it\u2019s a classic glazed donut from your favorite bakery, or a chocolate-dipped delight filled with rich cream, donuts are universally loved. However, traditional donuts are typically deep-fried, often loaded with excess oil, and not always the best option for those seeking a healthier lifestyle. Enter the air fryer: a revolutionary kitchen appliance that gives you the ability to achieve that crispy, golden-brown texture without deep frying. In this <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":14366,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-14365","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized","has_thumb"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/airfryer-tips.us\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14365","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/airfryer-tips.us\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/airfryer-tips.us\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/airfryer-tips.us\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/airfryer-tips.us\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14365"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/airfryer-tips.us\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14365\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":14367,"href":"https:\/\/airfryer-tips.us\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14365\/revisions\/14367"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/airfryer-tips.us\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/14366"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/airfryer-tips.us\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14365"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/airfryer-tips.us\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14365"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/airfryer-tips.us\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14365"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}