How To Make Air Fryer Donuts

Donuts are a beloved treat, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. But did you know that making them in an air fryer can save us time and calories? In this guide, we’ll explore how to make delicious, fluffy air fryer donuts right in our own kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, you’ll find this method easy and rewarding. Let’s jump into the world of air fryer donuts and discover how to create these delightful pastries with minimal guilt.

What Are Air Fryer Donuts?

Air fryer donuts are a lighter version of traditional fried donuts, made using an air fryer instead of a deep fryer. The air fryer circulates hot air around the donuts, cooking them evenly and creating a crispy exterior without the excess oil. They are not only easier to make, but they also have a fluffier texture and are often lower in calories compared to their fried counterparts. Essentially, air fryer donuts allow us to indulge in a beloved treat while keeping our health goals in check.

Benefits Of Making Donuts In An Air Fryer

Making donuts in an air fryer comes with several advantages:

1. Healthier Option: Without the need for deep frying, air fryer donuts contain significantly less oil, making them a healthier choice.
2. Quick Cooking Time: Air fryers can cook donuts faster than traditional methods, reducing our time spent in the kitchen.
3. Less Mess: No hot oil splatters means less cleanup, allowing us to focus more on enjoying the donuts.
4. Consistency: The even heat distribution in air fryers helps us achieve perfectly cooked donuts every time.

Essential Ingredients For Air Fryer Donuts

To make air fryer donuts, we need a few basic ingredients that can be easily found in your pantry:

• Flour: All-purpose flour is generally the best choice for a fluffy texture.
• Baking Powder: This helps the donuts rise and create a soft, airy bite.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the dough, with options for powdered sugar for later toppings.
• Milk: Whole milk adds moisture: we can also use alternatives like almond or oat milk.
• Egg: Adds richness and binds the ingredients together.
• Butter or Oil: A little melted butter or oil enhances flavor and moisture.
• Vanilla Extract: For a touch of sweetness and flavor.

Step-By-Step Guide To Making Air Fryer Donuts

Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making our air fryer donuts:

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/4 cup of granulated sugar.
2. In another bowl, mix 1/2 cup of milk, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
3. Slowly add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix: a lumpy dough is perfect.

Step 2: Shape the Donuts

1. Dust a clean surface with flour, and turn the dough out onto it.
2. Roll the dough to about 1/2 inch thick and use a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one larger for the outer edge and smaller for the center) to cut out the donuts.
3. Reroll any scraps to cut out more donuts.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat our air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures the donuts cook evenly.

Step 4: Air Fry the Donuts

1. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Place the donuts in the basket, ensuring they don’t touch each other.
3. Air fry for about 5–7 minutes or until they are golden brown, flipping them halfway through for even cooking.

Step 5: Cool and Glaze

1. Remove the donuts from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes.
2. For a simple glaze, mix powdered sugar with a little milk until smooth. Dip the tops of the donuts in the glaze, then set them on a wire rack to allow the excess to drip off.

Flavor Variations and Toppings

Once we’re comfortable with the basic air fryer donut recipe, it’s time to get creative with flavors and toppings. Here are a few delicious ideas:

Flavor Variations:

• Chocolate: Add cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate version.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Toss the donuts in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar right after they come out of the air fryer.
• Lemon Zest: Incorporate lemon zest into the dough for a refreshing citrus twist.

Topping Ideas:

• Glazes: Experiment with different flavored glazes, caramel, maple, or chocolate glaze are popular choices.
• Sprinkles: For a festive look, add colorful sprinkles atop your glaze.
• Fruit: Top with fresh fruit or a fruit compote for a fresh taste.

Tips For Perfect Air Fryer Donuts

To ensure our donuts turn out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips:

• Don’t Overmix: As mentioned earlier, a lumpy dough is better: overmixing can make donuts tough.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Every air fryer is different. Keep an eye on our donuts, especially the first time we try this recipe.
• Use Parchment Paper: If we’re worried about sticking, a piece of parchment paper at the bottom of the basket can help.
• Experiment with Donut Sizes: Making mini donuts or larger ones can add variety.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Making Donuts

Even the best bakers can make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Skipping the Preheat: Preheating the air fryer is crucial for perfect cooking.
• Not Letting Donuts Cool: Waiting a few minutes before glazing ensures the donuts maintain their shape.
• Overcrowding the Basket: Donuts need space to expand and cook evenly: avoid placing too many at once.

Conclusion

Air fryer donuts are a fantastic way for us to enjoy a classic treat with a healthier twist. By following our step-by-step guide, experimenting with flavors, and avoiding common mistakes, we can create delicious donuts that are sure to impress. Whether we’re serving them at a brunch, enjoying a quiet weekend at home, or sharing with friends, air fryer donuts are sure to become a favorite in our baking repertoire. So, let’s fire up that air fryer and get to work.