Name: Air Fryer Donuts Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 23 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup sugar; 2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 3/4 cup milk; 1 egg; 2 tbsp melted butter; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon (for cinnamon sugar coating); Glaze (powdered sugar mixed with milk to desired consistency)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’ve ever craved a sweet treat that’s light, fluffy, and just a little bit crispy on the outside, then this Air Fryer Donuts Recipe is the perfect discovery for you. Imagine diving into warm, golden donuts that melt in your mouth without the heavy greasiness of traditional frying. Using simple pantry staples and an air fryer, this recipe brings the joy of classic donuts into your kitchen with less mess and a healthier twist, making every bite an indulgent yet guilt-free experience. Let me walk you through this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a favorite for breakfast, snack, or dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a collage of four photos demonstrating dough preparation for air frying donuts. The top left shows a woman's hand holding a black brush spreading oil inside a black air fryer basket, with a stack of dough rounds on a white marbled surface in the background. The top right shows a woman's hand pressing a small circular cutter into a thick, white dough round placed on a baking paper-lined tray on a white marbled surface. The bottom left shows multiple dough rings and round cutouts arranged neatly on the baking paper-lined tray. The bottom right shows four dough rings placed evenly inside the black air fryer basket, ready to be cooked. The dough is pale and smooth with a slightly fluffy texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward donut heaven. Each one plays an essential role—from the soft texture of the flour and the perfect rise brought by baking powder, to the subtle sweetness and richness contributed by sugar, butter, and vanilla. These simple ingredients come together to create the perfect balance of flavor and texture in your donuts.

2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your donuts, providing structure and tenderness.
1/4 cup sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance flavors.
2 tsp baking powder: Essential for a light, fluffy rise that makes the donuts airy.
1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and rounds out the sweetness.
3/4 cup milk: Keeps the dough moist and tender, delivering softness inside.
1 egg: Binds ingredients together and enriches the dough’s texture.
2 tbsp melted butter: Adds buttery richness and helps achieve a golden crust.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses subtle aromatic sweetness to elevate the taste.

How to Make Air Fryer Donuts Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Start by combining the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl. This ensures your dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which is crucial for the donuts to rise properly and bake evenly.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. The richness of the butter and egg will give your dough a tender crumb.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold together using a spatula or your hands until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; you want the dough to be slightly sticky but manageable.

Step 4: Shape the Donuts

Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a donut cutter to cut out shapes, or improvise with two round cutters—a large one for the outer edge and a small one for the center hole. Save any scraps to reroll and cut more donuts.

Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 180°C (350°F) and let it heat up for a few minutes. This step is important for getting that perfect crispy exterior without drying out the inside.

Step 6: Air Fry the Donuts

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking and place donuts inside in a single layer, making sure they do not touch or overcrowd. Air fry for 6 to 8 minutes until they turn golden and puff up slightly. Flip halfway through if your air fryer calls for it.

Step 7: Add Toppings

Right after cooking, toss the warm donuts in cinnamon sugar or douse them with a simple powdered sugar glaze. The warmth helps the toppings stick perfectly, making each bite irresistibly flavorful.

How to Serve Air Fryer Donuts Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a single doughnut with three layers. The bottom layer is a golden-brown doughnut base. The middle layer is a smooth, light pink glaze that covers the top of the doughnut and drips slightly down the sides. The top layer is made up of colorful sprinkles scattered all over the glaze, including small heart shapes in yellow, purple, and pink, along with white round and elongated sprinkles. The doughnut rests on parchment paper placed over a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Classic cinnamon sugar is a timeless choice that brings a delightful spice and sweetness combo. Alternatively, a smooth powdered sugar glaze adds just the right sheen and extra sweetness. You can even let your creativity shine with chocolate drizzle, sprinkles, or fresh fruit toppings for an eye-catching presentation.

Side Dishes

Serve these donuts alongside a hot cup of coffee or a creamy latte for a cozy morning treat. They also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries if you want to dress them up for dessert time.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Air Fryer Donuts Recipe into a fun party platter by arranging the donuts on a tiered stand with various dipping sauces like caramel, chocolate, and berry compote. Or create DIY donut sandwiches filled with cream cheese frosting or jam for a delightful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover donuts (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This helps maintain their softness but avoid refrigeration as it can dry them out.

Freezing

You can freeze the donuts after they’ve completely cooled. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place in a sealed freezer bag for up to one month. Thaw at room temperature before reheating to enjoy them fresh again.

Reheating

Pop your leftover or thawed donuts back into the air fryer at 160°C (320°F) for 2-3 minutes. This refreshes their texture, bringing back the crispy exterior and warm interior almost like they’re freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free flour for this Air Fryer Donuts Recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum or another binder to help the donuts hold their shape and texture.

Do I need to preheat my air fryer?

Preheating your air fryer ensures even cooking and helps your donuts develop a crisp, golden crust without overcooking the inside.

Can I add fillings to these donuts?

While this recipe is designed for classic ring-shaped donuts, you can try filling small donut holes with jam or cream after cooking for a delicious surprise inside.

What if I don’t have a donut cutter?

No worries! Use two round cookie cutters or even a large cup and a small bottle cap to cut the donuts and holes. The shape might be a bit rustic but just as tasty!

How can I keep these donuts from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Lightly spray or brush the basket with a little oil before placing the donuts in. Also, avoid overcrowding so air can circulate properly and reduce sticking.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Donuts Recipe is a game changer for anyone who loves homemade treats with minimal fuss and maximum flavor. It’s easy enough to whip up on any day yet special enough to impress family and friends. So why not grab your ingredients and air fryer now? Your perfect batch of golden, fluffy donuts is just minutes away.