Tasty Air Fryer Donuts Guide

Got a craving for donuts fresh from the fryer without all that greasy mess? Air Fryer Donuts give you that classic soft sweetness with a deliciously crispy outside using way less fat. They're a game changer for anyone who loves real yeasted donuts at home, without all the fuss of deep frying. My kids keep asking for these every time they get the craving, and making them together is always a blast.

These became a hit the very first time I made them for a snow day breakfast. The joy on my family’s faces made me realize these should be a regular treat for us.

Ingredients

• Lukewarm milk: gives the yeast a great start for fluffy dough. Check the temp with your wrist; it should feel warm, not hot.
• Active dry or instant yeast: helps the dough rise and get that airy feel. Make sure it’s fresh for the best proofing.
• Granulated sugar: sweetens the dough and feeds the yeast.
• Salt: enhances sweetness and brings out more flavors.
• Egg: adds a rich, tender crumb. Use fresh, large eggs.
• Unsalted butter: brings richness and helps with softening and browning the donuts. European-style is great if you can find it.
• All-purpose flour: gives structure. Go for unbleached for the best donut texture.
• Oil spray: ensures even browning and keeps donuts from sticking. Coconut oil adds a nice hint of flavor.
• For the glaze, Unsalted butter: gives it a creamy finish.
• Powdered sugar: creates that classic smooth texture.
• Vanilla extract: adds depth; real vanilla is best.
• Hot water: makes the glaze nice and spreadable.

Instructions

Prepare the Yeast Mixture:

In your mixer bowl, mix lukewarm milk, one teaspoon of sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for exactly ten minutes. You want to see bubbles and foam. That shows the yeast is active and ready to make the dough rise.

Make the Dough:

Add the remaining sugar, salt, egg, melted butter, and two cups of flour to the foamy milk. Mix on low until everything's blended. Gradually add the last cup of flour while the mixer is running. The dough should pull away from the sides but not be sticky. Increase speed to medium low and knead for five minutes. You want an elastic ball that looks shiny.

First Rise:

Grease a large mixing bowl and transfer the dough in. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot—my turned-off oven works great. It should double in size in about an hour. Check by poking the dough; if the dent stays, it’s ready.

Shape the Donuts:

Put the dough on a lightly floured surface and punch it down gently. Roll it out to about half an inch thick. Use a three-inch cutter for the donuts and a one-inch cutter for the holes. Don't forget to save the donut holes.

Second Rise and Preheat:

Put the cut donuts and holes on floured parchment. Cover loosely with greased plastic wrap. Let them puff up again for about thirty minutes. At the same time, preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Air Fry:

Spray the air fryer basket with some oil. Arrange the donuts in a single layer inside. Mist the tops for added crispiness. Air fry for about four minutes until they turn golden. Work in batches to ensure even cooking.

Make the Glaze:

As the donuts are cooking, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Gradually add hot water, one spoonful at a time, until your glaze is smooth and pourable—not too runny.

Glaze the Donuts:

Dip each freshly fried donut and hole into the warm glaze. Use two forks to turn them for even coverage. Place the donuts on a wire rack over a baking sheet to catch any extra glaze. Let them sit for about ten minutes until the tops look shiny and crackled.

I can't help but sneak tastes of the vanilla glaze while dunking these donuts. Growing up, my dad would let us snag the donut holes first while the big ones cooled. Just smelling them brings back so many memories.

Storage Tips

Air Fryer Donuts taste best the day they’re made, but you can keep them for up to two days in a covered container at room temperature. If you want to store them longer, refrigerate them, but they might lose some of their soft texture. You can quickly reheat them in the air fryer for that fresh taste again.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can switch all-purpose flour for bread flour if you prefer a chewier texture. Use almond or oat milk instead of dairy milk for a lactose-free option. Coconut oil can replace butter in the dough for a dairy-free version, but keep in mind that these changes might affect the final flavor.

Serving Suggestions

They're amazing dipped in extra glaze or sprinkled with cinnamon sugar. You can slice them open and fill with jam, whipped cream, or even a bit of Nutella for a truly delightful treat. My kids adore stacking donut holes with berries on skewers for parties.

Cultural and Historical Context

Donuts have a long history in sweets around the world, from Dutch oliebollen to classic American fried rings. The clever air fryer twist makes it simpler than ever to enjoy this timeless treat that once meant a trip into town or dealing with hot oil.

Seasonal Adaptations

Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or pumpkin spice to the dough for a cozy fall vibe. Top with sprinkles or edible flowers for a spring birthday. Mixing lemon zest into the glaze gives it a fresh summer kick.

Many readers have told me these donuts have become their go-to Saturday morning treat. A teacher friend even uses these for classroom baking since they always turn out great and are super satisfying.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Why's yeast important for this dough?

Yeast makes the dough rise, giving it a light and fluffy texture that’s signature for donuts.

→ How can I tell when the dough's good to fry?

The dough should double in size and spring back when you poke it gently with your finger.

→ What’s the best method to glaze the donuts?

Warm donuts and holes should be dipped in the glaze, let the extra drip off, then set to dry on a rack.

→ How do I stop donuts from sticking?

Spray the fryer basket with some oil and lay down parchment paper for easier handling of the donuts.

→ Can I create these without an air fryer?

Definitely, you can bake raised donuts in the oven, but the air fryer gives a crisp, golden finish with less oil.