Name: Air Fryer Donuts Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; ¾ cup milk; 2 tbsp melted butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract; ¼ cup melted butter; ½ cup sugar; 1 tsp cinnamon

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If you’ve been dreaming of a homemade treat that’s soft, fluffy, and irresistibly golden, then this Air Fryer Donuts Recipe is exactly what you need. These donuts are not only quick to whip up but also healthier than traditional fried versions, making them perfect for a sweet indulgence any day of the week. You’ll get that delightful crisp exterior and tender interior without the hassle of deep frying, so dive in and get ready to fall in love with this easy and delightful recipe!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a four-step process of making doughnut-shaped dough pieces. The first section displays a woman's hand with blue nail polish brushing oil inside a black air fryer basket with a textured base, on a white marbled surface. The second part shows the woman's hand pressing a circular cutter into thick, soft white dough pieces placed on a baking tray lined with brown parchment paper. The third part features multiple dough rings and small round dough pieces arranged neatly on the parchment paper. The last part shows five dough rings placed evenly inside the black air fryer basket, ready to be cooked, all set on the white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind these Air Fryer Donuts comes from a handful of simple pantry staples. Each ingredient plays a crucial role to deliver just the right taste, texture, and color that’ll keep you coming back for more.

2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base for soft, tender donuts with just enough structure.
2 tbsp sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness that balances every bite beautifully.
1 tsp baking powder: Helps the donuts rise softly, giving them that fluffy texture you crave.
½ tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavors without being overpowering.
¾ cup milk: Keeps the dough moist and tender.
2 tbsp melted butter: Adds richness and a melt-in-your-mouth quality to the donuts.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, inviting aroma and flavor to make these donuts irresistibly tasty.
¼ cup melted butter (for coating): Ensures the cinnamon sugar sticks perfectly, adding a luscious finish.
½ cup sugar (for coating): Sweetens the donuts’ exterior with a delightful crunch.
1 tsp cinnamon (for coating): Brings cozy warmth and spice, making each bite unforgettable.

How to Make Air Fryer Donuts Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Start by mixing together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. This dry mix creates a balanced foundation for your dough, ensuring the right rise and sweetness in each donut.

Step 2: Add the Wet Ingredients

Pour in the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Stir everything gently until the dough forms—soft, but not sticky. This step is where the magic begins to transform dry powders into the fluffy delight of your upcoming donuts.

Step 3: Shape the Donuts

Lightly flour your surface and roll out the dough to about half an inch thick. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters to shape your donuts and holes. This classic shape ensures even cooking and makes the donuts look as good as they taste.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) and let it heat up. Preheating guarantees that your donuts get that beautiful golden crust right from the start.

Step 5: Air Fry the Donuts

Carefully arrange the donuts in the air fryer basket without overcrowding to maintain proper air circulation. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes or until they’re puffed up and beautifully golden. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly at this point!

Step 6: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

Once out of the air fryer, brush each donut with melted butter, then toss or sprinkle with the cinnamon sugar mixture. This final touch not only adds sweetness but also a lovely texture contrast that takes these donuts to the next level.

How to Serve Air Fryer Donuts Recipe

The image shows a close-up of two donuts on a light brown paper over a white marbled texture. The main donut in the center has a golden brown base with a thick white icing layer on top. It is decorated with small colorful sprinkles, including yellow and purple heart shapes, white round balls, and small white rods spread evenly. The donut below it has a similar golden brown base and a white icing layer, but the sprinkles are different, featuring yellow flowers, green rod-shaped sprinkles, and white round balls. The scene is bright and clear, highlighting the texture and colors of the donuts and sprinkles. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

These donuts are already delicious on their own, but a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a drizzle of chocolate glaze, or even a handful of fresh berries on the side can elevate their presentation and flavor. Feel free to experiment with your favorite toppings!

Side Dishes

Serve these air fryer donuts alongside a steaming cup of coffee, a rich hot chocolate, or a creamy latte to make your breakfast or snack feel truly special. Fresh fruit or yogurt also complements these treats wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack the donuts on a tall cake stand or arrange them on a rustic wooden board for a charming diner-style vibe. For parties, fill the donut holes with flavored jams or cream cheese for delightful bites that surprise and delight guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra donuts (which is totally possible here), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft but fresh, so you can enjoy them a little later without losing that just-made appeal.

Freezing

Want to save donuts for longer? Freeze cooled donuts in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw them at room temperature and reheat gently.

Reheating

The best way to bring your leftover donuts back to life is by reheating them in the air fryer for 2 to 3 minutes at 160°C (320°F). This method revives their crispy edges while keeping the inside tender—a true second chance at delight!

FAQs

Can I use self-rising flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute self-rising flour, but skip the baking powder and salt in the recipe since they are already included in self-rising flour. This will save you a step and still produce fluffy donuts.

Can I make this Air Fryer Donuts Recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Replace the milk with your favorite plant-based milk, and swap butter with plant-based margarine or coconut oil. The donuts will still turn out deliciously fluffy and flavorful.

How do I prevent the donuts from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray or brush it with a bit of melted butter before placing the donuts inside. This helps them release easily and keeps their perfect shape intact.

Can I add fillings to these donuts?

You can, though it’s a bit tricky with this recipe’s dough. For filled versions, consider piping small amounts of cream or jam into the center after cooking, or use a different dough designed for stuffed donuts.

What if I don’t have a donut cutter?

No worries! Use two round cutters of different sizes—a larger one for the outer shape and a smaller one for the hole. Alternatively, you can shape them into small rounds or twists for a fun twist on the classic.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about homemade donuts that you just can’t buy at the store, and this Air Fryer Donuts Recipe lets you enjoy them without any fuss or mess. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with friends and family, these lightly crisp and fluffy delights hit the perfect sweet spot every time. So, grab your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and make some magic happen in your kitchen today!