Air Fryer donuts recipe have gained popularity for their ability to mimic the results of deep frying without the need for excessive oil. This makes them an excellent alternative for cooking donuts, as they produce a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft and fluffy interior.
1. Benefits of Making Donuts in an Air Fryer
Healthier Option
Compared to traditional frying methods, air frying requires significantly less oil, reducing the overall fat content of the donuts. This makes air fryer donuts a healthier alternative for those watching their dietary intake.
Less Messy
With air frying, there’s no need for large pots of hot oil, minimizing the mess associated with traditional frying. This makes cleanup a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your donuts without the hassle of greasy countertops.
Faster Cooking Time
Air fryers cook food quickly and evenly, meaning you can enjoy freshly baked donuts in a fraction of the time it would take to deep fry them. This makes air fryer donuts the perfect option for busy mornings or spontaneous dessert cravings.
2. Ingredients Required
To make air fryer donuts, you’ll need:
- Dough: Flour, yeast, sugar, milk, butter, eggs
- Toppings and Glazes: Powdered sugar, chocolate, sprinkles, cinnamon sugar
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, warm the milk and melt the butter.
- Add the milk mixture and eggs to the dry ingredients, then knead until a smooth dough forms.
- Cover the dough and let it rise until doubled in size.
Shaping the Donuts
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out on a floured surface.
- Use a donut cutter or round cookie cutter to cut out the donut shapes.
- Place the shaped donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them rise again.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (180°C).
- Place the donuts in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each one.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before glazing.
4. Variations and Customizations
Get creative with your air fryer donuts by trying different toppings and fillings:
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the donuts for a decadent treat.
- Dip them in cinnamon sugar for a classic flavor combination.
- Fill them with jam or custard for a delightful surprise in every bite.
5. Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Donuts
- Ensure your air fryer is preheated before adding the donuts to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can result in uneven cooking.
- Experiment with different glazes and toppings to find your favorite flavor combinations.
6. Serving Suggestions
Serve your air fryer donuts warm with a cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk for the perfect indulgent treat. They’re great for breakfast, dessert, or anytime you’re craving something sweet.
7. Conclusion
Air fryer donuts offer a healthier and more convenient way to enjoy this classic treat. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up a batch of delicious donuts in no time. So why wait? Fire up your air fryer and start baking today!
FAQs
- Can I freeze air fryer donuts?
- Yes, you can freeze air fryer donuts for later enjoyment. Simply place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply warm them in the air fryer until heated through.
- Can I make gluten-free air fryer donuts?
- Yes, you can substitute gluten-free flour for the regular flour in this recipe to make gluten-free air fryer donuts. Just be sure to adjust the measurements and follow the instructions accordingly.
- How do I prevent my donuts from becoming too greasy?
- To prevent greasy donuts, make sure your air fryer is preheated and avoid overcrowding the basket. Additionally, patting the donuts dry with paper towels before glazing can help absorb excess oil.
- Can I make vegan air fryer donuts?
- Yes, you can make vegan air fryer donuts by substituting plant-based milk, butter, and eggs for the dairy and egg products in this recipe. Follow the same instructions, making sure to use vegan-friendly ingredients.
- Can I reheat leftover air fryer donuts?
- Yes, you can reheat leftover air fryer donuts by placing them in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a quick and easy reheating option.
Air Fryer donuts recipe
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tbs sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Mix together wet ingredients:
- 1 egg
- 1/4 whole milk
- 1/8 melted butter
- 1 tsp quick rise yeast
Instructions
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and form a dough.
- Cover and let rise
- Shape donut rings
- Place in the air fryer to proof. Do NOT turn on the air fryer at this point.
- Once the donuts have doubled/tripled in size, cook on air fry mode at 400 Degrees Fahrenheit for 5 mins, flip over and cook for another 4-5 mins depending on your air fryer. Mine were done in 3 1/2 mins. (Total time = 7 1/2 mins)
- Coating – mix 2 tbs sugar and 1/4 tsp cinnamon
