Easy Donut Recipe Air Fryer

Introduction

Who doesn’t love a warm, fluffy donut? Making donuts at home can seem daunting, but with this easy donut recipe for the air fryer, you can enjoy delicious, freshly made treats without the mess of frying. This recipe is not only simple but also healthier than traditional frying methods.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This air fryer donut recipe is a game changer for home cooks looking to satisfy their sweet tooth. The donuts are light, fluffy, and can be customized to your taste. Plus, using an air fryer means you can enjoy these treats with less oil, making them a better option for those mindful of their health. In just a few simple steps, you can create mouthwatering donuts that will impress family and friends.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Cooking spray (for the air fryer)

How to Make Easy Donut Recipe Air Fryer

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground nutmeg. Whisk until well combined.
2. In another bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F for about 5 minutes.
5. Lightly grease a donut pan with cooking spray. If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use silicone molds or shape the donuts using parchment paper.
6. Fill each donut cavity about halfway with the batter. This allows room for the donuts to rise while cooking.
7. Place the filled donut pan in the air fryer basket and cook at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Once done, carefully remove the donut pan from the air fryer and let it cool for a few minutes before transferring the donuts to a wire rack.
9. Optional: Dust the warm donuts with powdered sugar or dip them in glaze for extra sweetness.

Expert Tips

• Make sure not to overmix the batter. A few lumps will ensure your donuts remain light and fluffy.
• Experiment with different flavorings, such as adding cocoa powder for chocolate donuts or cinnamon for a spiced version.
• If you prefer a more decadent treat, consider adding a chocolate or vanilla glaze after cooking.
• Check your air fryer’s manual for optimal cooking times, as they can vary between models.

Variations

This easy donut recipe can be customized in many ways. Here are a few ideas:

• Glazed Donuts: After air frying, dip the donuts in a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
• Chocolate Donuts: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a rich chocolate flavor.
• Fruit-Filled Donuts: Make a small indentation in the center of each donut before air frying, then fill with jam or fruit preserves after cooking.
• Maple Donuts: Substitute maple syrup for granulated sugar for a unique flavor.

Storage Instructions

These air fryer donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them for later. To keep them fresh, place the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week. You can also freeze the donuts for up to 2 months; just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser. You might also need to adjust the liquid slightly to achieve the right consistency.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Preheating the air fryer is recommended for even cooking. It helps achieve that perfect golden brown crust.

Can I make these donuts vegan?

Yes, you can make these donuts vegan by replacing the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water) and using plant-based milk and butter alternatives.

Final Thoughts

This easy air fryer donut recipe is a delightful way to indulge in homemade treats without the guilt of traditional frying. Whether you enjoy them plain, glazed, or filled, these donuts are sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe today and discover just how easy it is to make delicious donuts right in your air fryer.