The Best Fluffy Pancakes recipe you will fall in love with. Full of tips and tricks to help you make the best pancakes.
Imagine biting into a warm, soft, perfectly golden donut, without the deep-fried guilt. This is precisely what my amazing Air Fryer Donuts recipe offers! Fluffy on the inside, delicately crisp on the outside, these treats are a dream come true for anyone craving a healthier indulgence.
Prepare to transform simple, wholesome ingredients into a delightful experience, all thanks to the magic of your air fryer. These Air Fryer Donuts are quick, easy, and absolutely irresistible. Let’s dive in and create some magic that will brighten your day!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Adore These Healthier Air Fryer Donuts
Craving a sweet treat that aligns with your mindful eating goals? These Air Fryer Donuts are a game-changer. They deliver all the joy of a classic donut with significantly less oil, making them a fantastic choice for any time of day. You will love how simple and rewarding the process is, leading to truly memorable results.
- These Air Fryer Donuts offer an incredible taste and texture experience, rivaling traditional fried versions but with a lighter, more wholesome feel.
- The preparation for these Air Fryer Donuts is remarkably simple, perfect for busy mornings or an impromptu dessert.
- You gain the satisfaction of a delicious, homemade treat without the heavy feeling that often accompanies deep-fried options, aligning perfectly with an eco-conscious, plant-based lifestyle.
- Enjoy the versatility of customizing flavors, transforming simple dough into an array of colorful and vibrant Air Fryer Donuts.
- This recipe is an anti-waste champion, allowing you to use pantry staples efficiently and reduce food waste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating these delightful Air Fryer Donuts begins with a selection of fresh, quality ingredients. Opting for organic and sustainably sourced items whenever possible enhances both the flavor and your commitment to a healthier planet. Here’s what you’ll need to make these incredible Air Fryer Donuts:
- For the Donuts:
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour: For a lighter texture, choose unbleached flour. For a heartier, fiber-rich option, a 50/50 blend with whole wheat pastry flour works wonderfully.
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar: Organic cane sugar or even coconut sugar can be used as a more mindful alternative.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Essential for that perfect fluffy rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Reacts with the plant milk to ensure a tender crumb.
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1 cup (240ml) unsweetened plant milk: Almond, oat, or soy milk are excellent choices, contributing creaminess without dairy.
- 1/4 cup (60ml) melted vegan butter or refined coconut oil: Provides richness and moisture to the dough. Ensure it’s slightly cooled before adding.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A must for that classic donut aroma and taste.
- Non-stick cooking spray or a little extra oil: For lightly greasing the donuts before air frying.
- For the Classic Glaze (Optional, but highly recommended!):
- 1 1/2 cups (180g) powdered sugar: Sifted to avoid lumps.
- 3-4 tablespoons unsweetened plant milk: Adjust to achieve your desired consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: To enhance the glaze’s flavor.
Substitutions & Variations
Note: This video is for demonstration purposes and may use a slightly different method.
Embrace your creative spirit with these Air Fryer Donuts! The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability, allowing you to tailor it to your dietary preferences and flavor whims. As an eco-conscious chef, I encourage you to experiment and prevent food waste by using what you have on hand.
- Flour Alternatives: For a gluten-free version, use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend that contains xanthan gum. You might need to add an extra tablespoon or two of plant milk as GF flours absorb liquid differently. For a slightly denser, more nutritious donut, swap up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour.
- Sweetener Swaps: Replace granulated sugar with maple sugar, date sugar, or even a blend of erythritol and stevia for a lower-sugar option. Adjust quantities to your preferred sweetness level. For the glaze, a simple lemon juice and powdered sugar blend offers a zesty twist, or use a sugar-free powdered sweetener.
- Plant Milk Choices: Any unsweetened plant milk works beautifully. Oat milk provides a subtle creaminess, while almond milk offers a neutral base. Soy milk is richer and adds a bit more protein.
- Fat Options: While vegan butter or refined coconut oil are preferred, a neutral-flavored oil like avocado oil can also be used, though it will slightly change the texture.
- Flavor Fusions for the Dough:
- Citrus Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon, orange, or lime zest to the dough for a bright, aromatic twist.
- Spiced Delight: Mix 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom into the dry ingredients for a warm, comforting flavor.
- Matcha Magic: Fold in 1-2 teaspoons of culinary-grade matcha powder for a vibrant green hue and earthy flavor.
- Cocoa Indulgence: Add 2-3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder for chocolate Air Fryer Donuts.
- Creative Glaze & Topping Ideas:
- Cinnamon Sugar: After air frying, brush warm Air Fryer Donuts with melted vegan butter and dip in a mix of 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Melt vegan chocolate chips with a tiny bit of plant milk or coconut oil for a decadent drizzle.
- Fruity Glaze: Blend a handful of berries (fresh or frozen) with powdered sugar and a splash of plant milk for a naturally colored, vibrant glaze. This is a wonderful anti-waste tip if you have overripe berries!
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pistachios, toasted almonds, or shredded coconut on top of the wet glaze for added texture.
- Maple Pecan: Use maple syrup instead of vanilla in your glaze, and top with toasted pecans.
If you’re intrigued by the versatility of Air Fryer Donuts, you’ll definitely want to check out our recipe for Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Donuts, where you can also embrace your creativity. This recipe is perfect for using up pantry staples while indulging in a classic favorite.
Equipment You’ll Need
Having the right tools makes the process of creating your Air Fryer Donuts smooth and enjoyable. You likely have most of these items already in your kitchen, making this recipe even more accessible.
- Air Fryer: The star of the show! Any model will work, but cooking times may vary slightly.
- Large Mixing Bowl: For combining your dry and wet ingredients.
- Whisk and Spatula: For mixing and scraping the bowl.
- Rolling Pin: To roll out the dough to an even thickness.
- Donut Cutter Set (recommended): This makes perfectly shaped donuts and donut holes. Alternatively, use two round cookie cutters (one larger for the donut, one smaller for the hole).
- Parchment Paper: To prevent sticking and for easy transfer of the donuts into and out of the air fryer basket. Cut into small squares for each donut.
- Wire Cooling Rack: Essential for cooling your Air Fryer Donuts evenly and allowing the glaze to set without sticking.
- Small Bowl: For mixing the glaze.
- Pastry Brush (optional): For lightly oiling the donuts before air frying.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these clear steps to create your perfect batch of Air Fryer Donuts. This method ensures fluffy, golden results every time, proving that homemade treats are truly the best.
- Prepare Your Dry Ingredients: In your large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure these are well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the unsweetened plant milk, melted vegan butter (or refined coconut oil), and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Mix Dough: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing develops gluten too much, leading to tough donuts.
- Chill (Optional but Recommended): For easier handling, cover the dough and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes. This helps the dough firm up.
- Roll and Cut Dough: Lightly flour a clean surface. Turn the dough out onto the surface and gently knead it once or twice. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough to about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) thickness. Use a donut cutter to cut out your donut shapes. Re-roll any scraps gently to cut out more donuts, being careful not to overwork the dough.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. While it preheats, cut small squares of parchment paper, one for each donut, to make transfer easier and prevent sticking.
- Air Fry the Donuts: Lightly brush each donut with a tiny bit of oil (or spray with non-stick spray). Carefully place 2-3 donuts (depending on your air fryer size) on separate parchment squares in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. Keep a close eye on them as air fryer models vary. Repeat with remaining donuts and donut holes (donut holes typically cook faster, around 3-4 minutes).
- Prepare the Glaze: While the Air Fryer Donuts are still warm (but not hot), prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, plant milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and desired consistency is reached.
- Glaze and Cool: Dip each warm Air Fryer Donut into the glaze, letting any excess drip off. Place the glazed donuts on a wire cooling rack to set. If making cinnamon sugar donuts, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture immediately after air frying.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your delicious Air Fryer Donuts immediately while they are fresh and warm.
As you start cooking, don’t miss our guide on Homemade Sugar Donuts which will give you essential tips for achieving the perfect batch. The techniques discussed can elevate your Air Fryer Donuts even further!
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving perfectly tender and delicious Air Fryer Donuts every time comes down to a few key techniques. These expert tips will elevate your donut-making game and ensure a delightful experience.
- Do Not Overmix the Dough: This is crucial! Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough, dense donuts instead of light and fluffy ones. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
- Maintain Dough Thickness: Roll your dough to an even 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) thickness. Too thin, and your donuts will be dry; too thick, and they might not cook through properly. Consistency is key for uniform Air Fryer Donuts.
- Use Parchment Paper: Cutting small squares of parchment paper for each donut before placing them in the air fryer basket makes handling incredibly easy. It prevents sticking and helps you transfer the delicate dough without distortion.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like an oven, preheating your air fryer ensures an even cooking temperature from the start, leading to a consistent golden-brown exterior and thoroughly cooked interior for your Air Fryer Donuts.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cook your Air Fryer Donuts in batches, leaving space between each one. Overcrowding reduces air circulation, preventing proper browning and even cooking. Patience here pays off.
- Lightly Oil the Donuts: A very light brush or spray of oil on the donuts before air frying helps achieve that beautiful golden color and a slightly crispy exterior. Don’t skip this step for truly appealing Air Fryer Donuts.
- Watch Cooking Times Closely: Air fryers vary greatly in power and efficiency. Start checking your Air Fryer Donuts at the lower end of the suggested cooking time and adjust as needed. They should be golden brown and feel light when gently pressed.
- Glaze While Warm: Dipping the Air Fryer Donuts in the glaze while they are still warm (but not hot) allows the glaze to melt slightly and adhere beautifully, creating a seamless, shiny coating.
Storage & Reheating Tips
To preserve the deliciousness of your homemade Air Fryer Donuts and practice anti-waste habits, proper storage is essential. While best enjoyed fresh, these tips will help you savor them for a little longer.
- Storing Fresh Donuts: Place completely cooled, glazed, or unglazed Air Fryer Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, especially in warmer climates, store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing Unglazed Donuts: If you’ve made a large batch of Air Fryer Donuts, consider freezing some unglazed. Once cooled, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Transfer the frozen donuts to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They will keep for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: For room temperature or refrigerated Air Fryer Donuts, reheat them in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 2-3 minutes, or until just warmed through. This brings back a lovely soft texture. From frozen, you can air fry them at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. Glaze after reheating if they were stored unglazed.
- Revive Stale Donuts: If your Air Fryer Donuts have become a bit stale, a quick reheat in the air fryer can often bring them back to life, making them soft and enjoyable again.
To keep the joy of your homemade treats going, learn about best practices for storage with our Perfect Homemade Baked Donuts guide. These tips will help ensure your Air Fryer Donuts remain delicious as you savor them longer.
What to Serve With This Recipe
These delightful Air Fryer Donuts are incredibly versatile, making them a perfect complement to a range of healthy and vibrant pairings. As Hana, I love to combine indulgence with wholesome goodness to create a truly balanced and colorful experience.
- Fresh Fruit Medley: Pair your warm Air Fryer Donuts with a vibrant bowl of seasonal berries, sliced peaches, or a tropical fruit salad. The natural sweetness and freshness of the fruit cut through the richness of the donut beautifully.
- Vegan Yogurt Parfait: Create a mini parfait with plant-based yogurt, a sprinkle of granola, and more fresh fruit. The creamy tanginess of the yogurt perfectly complements the sweet donut.
- Aromatic Herbal Tea or Coffee: A classic pairing! Enjoy your Air Fryer Donuts with a soothing cup of chamomile, peppermint, or green tea. For coffee lovers, a freshly brewed cup of fair-trade coffee or a creamy nut milk latte is ideal.
- Homemade Plant Milk Smoothie: Blend up a colorful smoothie with spinach, banana, plant milk, and a touch of agave for a power-packed breakfast that balances the sweet treat.
- Nut Butter Dip: For an extra boost of protein and healthy fats, serve your donuts with a small side of almond or cashew butter for dipping. This adds a delightful nutty flavor.
- Light Fruit Compote: A warm, lightly spiced berry or apple compote, made with minimal added sugar, can be a wonderful, flavorful accompaniment to these Air Fryer Donuts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make Air Fryer Donuts gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can easily make these Air Fryer Donuts gluten-free. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend that contains xanthan gum.
You might find the dough is a little stickier, so add an extra tablespoon or two of gluten-free flour if needed, or chill it for a longer period (30 minutes) to make it easier to handle. The cooking time should remain roughly the same, but always keep an eye on them for optimal doneness.
How do I prevent my Air Fryer Donuts from getting dry or tough?
To ensure your Air Fryer Donuts stay wonderfully moist and tender, follow these key tips: First, do not overmix the dough; mix only until the ingredients are just combined to avoid developing too much gluten. Second, roll the dough to the correct thickness (about 1/2 inch) – too thin will result in dry donuts. Third, avoid overcooking; air fryer models vary, so start checking for doneness at the lower end of the suggested time.
They should be golden brown and feel light. Lastly, a light brush of oil before air frying also helps to lock in moisture and achieve a desirable texture.
What’s the best way to glaze Air Fryer Donuts for a smooth finish?
For a perfectly smooth and shiny glaze on your Air Fryer Donuts, ensure two things: First, the powdered sugar for your glaze should be sifted to remove any lumps before mixing. Second, dip your Air Fryer Donuts into the glaze while they are still warm, but not piping hot. If they are too hot, the glaze will become too runny and slide off.
If they are completely cool, the glaze might not adhere as smoothly. A warm donut allows the glaze to set beautifully, creating that irresistible finish.
Air Fryer Donuts provide a delightful way to enjoy a classic treat with a healthier twist, leveraging the air frying method to achieve a lighter texture suitable for any diet. Recipes often emphasize using fresh ingredients and offer a variety of flavors, appealing to those interested in healthier food options, as detailed in discussions on modern baking techniques found in baking.
Final Thoughts
These delightful Air Fryer Donuts prove that indulgence can be both delicious and mindful. Embrace the joy of creating warm, fluffy treats with less fuss and oil, perfect for sharing or a quiet moment of bliss. They’re a testament to how simple tweaks make everyday magic. Enjoy every bite, knowing you’ve crafted something truly special and eco-friendly!
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Please note: This is an estimated nutritional breakdown for one unglazed Air Fryer Donut and will vary based on exact ingredient choices (e.g., specific plant milk, type of flour, sugar substitutes) and serving size. Glaze and toppings will add to these values.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~180-220 kcal |
| Total Fat | ~6-8 g |
| Saturated Fat | ~3-4 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | ~200-250 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | ~30-35 g |
| Dietary Fiber | ~1-2 g |
| Total Sugars | ~12-18 g |
| Protein | ~3-4 g |
Air Fryer Donuts
Delightful and healthier Air Fryer Donuts that are fluffy on the inside and crisp on the outside, made with wholesome ingredients and minimal oil.
Ingredients
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together plant milk, melted vegan butter, and vanilla extract.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir until just combined; do not overmix.
- Optionally chill the dough for 15-20 minutes.
- Roll the dough to 1/2 inch thickness and cut into donut shapes.
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly oil donuts and place in the air fryer, cooking for 5-7 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
- Prepare glaze by mixing powdered sugar, plant milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Dip warm donuts into the glaze and place on a cooling rack to set.
Notes
Ensure not to overmix the dough. Use parchment paper for easy handling. Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
