Olivia Carter
If you’re on the lookout for a healthier alternative to traditional fried donuts, look no further than the air fryer. Air fryers have gained popularity in recent years for their ability to crisp food using minimal oil, resulting in delicious and guilt-free meals. And when it comes to making donuts, they truly shine. The air fryer can create the perfect golden-brown exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.
So, what makes the best air fryer donut recipe? It’s all in the dough. A good donut dough should be slightly sweet and airy. You can achieve this by using a combination of all-purpose flour, sugar, yeast, and milk. Adding a touch of vanilla extract or cinnamon can bring out the flavors even more. Once the dough is ready, let it rise for a couple of hours until it doubles in size. This step is essential to achieving that light and fluffy texture we all love in a donut.
Once the dough has risen, it’s time to shape the donuts. You can use a donut cutter to create the classic shape, or if you don’t have one, simply use a round cookie cutter and poke a hole in the middle. Place the shaped donuts on a parchment-lined tray and let them rise for another 30 minutes. This final rise ensures that the donuts maintain their shape and rise evenly in the air fryer.
When it’s time to cook the donuts, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Lightly coat the donuts with cooking spray or brush them with a small amount of oil to help them achieve that crispy exterior. Cook the donuts in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Each donut will take about 5-6 minutes to cook, flipping them halfway through for even browning. Once they are golden brown, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before glazing or topping with your favorite flavors.
Whether you prefer a classic glazed donut, cinnamon sugar coating, or a decadent chocolate ganache, the air fryer can help you create the best donuts right in your own kitchen. With its quick cooking time and healthier cooking method, you can enjoy these delightful treats without the guilt. So why not give it a try and elevate your donut game with the best air fryer donut recipe?
The Perfect Air Fryer Donut Recipe: How to Make It at Home
If you’re looking to make delicious donuts at home without the guilt of frying them in oil, then an air fryer is your best friend. With the right recipe and technique, you can achieve perfectly crispy and fluffy donuts that rival your favorite bakery’s. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make the perfect air fryer donuts at home.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Additional melted butter for brushing
- Sugar or cinnamon-sugar for coating
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense donuts.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it comes together.
- Roll out the dough to a 1/2-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter to cut out as many donuts as possible. Gather the scraps and reroll to cut out more donuts.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the donuts in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch each other. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Brush the tops of the donuts with melted butter.
- Air fry the donuts for 6-8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Flip them halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
- Remove the donuts from the air fryer and immediately roll them in sugar or cinnamon-sugar mixture while they are still warm.
- Repeat the process with the remaining dough and enjoy your freshly made air fryer donuts!
With a few simple ingredients and an air fryer, you can have homemade donuts that are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and without the guilt of deep-frying. Whether you want to enjoy them plain, glazed, or filled, this air fryer donut recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. So, don’t wait any longer and give it a try!
Understand the Benefits of Using an Air Fryer for Donuts
When it comes to making delicious and healthier donuts, an air fryer is a fantastic tool to have in your kitchen. This innovative appliance allows you to enjoy the taste and texture of traditional fried donuts without the excess oil and calories. Here are some of the benefits of using an air fryer for donuts:
1. Reduced Oil Usage
One of the main advantages of using an air fryer for donut making is the significant reduction in oil usage. Traditional deep frying methods require a large amount of oil, which adds extra fat and calories to the final result. With an air fryer, you can achieve crispy and golden donuts using just a fraction of the oil. This not only makes your donuts healthier, but also reduces the mess and cleanup associated with deep frying.
2. Healthier Alternative
An air fryer allows you to indulge in your love for donuts while still making healthier choices. By cooking with hot air instead of oil, an air fryer significantly reduces the amount of unhealthy fats and calories in your donuts. This makes them a great option for those who are watching their calorie intake or following a healthier lifestyle. Additionally, air frying preserves more nutrients in the donuts compared to traditional frying methods.
3. Quick and Convenient
Using an air fryer to make donuts is quick and convenient. The appliance heats up fast, and the circulating hot air cooks the donuts evenly and quickly. You don’t have to wait for a large pot of oil to heat up and worry about the temperature control. With an air fryer, you can have freshly baked donuts ready in a matter of minutes. This makes it a perfect option for a quick and delicious breakfast or snack.
4. Versatility
An air fryer is not just limited to making donuts. It is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for a wide range of recipes, including frying, grilling, baking, and roasting. This means you can experiment with different donut flavors, fillings, and decorations, and also use the air fryer for other cooking needs. It’s a versatile appliance that provides endless possibilities in the kitchen.
In conclusion, using an air fryer for donut making offers several benefits. It allows for reduced oil usage, provides a healthier alternative, offers quick and convenient cooking, and is a versatile kitchen tool. If you want to indulge in delicious donuts while making healthier choices, an air fryer is definitely worth considering.
Choosing the Right Air Fryer for Donut Making
If you’re a fan of donuts and want to make them at home using an air fryer, it’s important to choose the right one that suits your needs. The right air fryer can make all the difference in achieving perfectly crispy and delicious donuts. Here are some factors to consider when selecting an air fryer for donut making:
1. Capacity:
Consider the size of the air fryer and its capacity. If you plan to make a large batch of donuts at once, you’ll need an air fryer with a sizeable cooking basket. On the other hand, if you only want to make a few donuts at a time, a smaller air fryer will suffice.
2. Temperature Control:
Air fryers with adjustable temperature controls are ideal for making donuts. Different donut recipes require different cooking temperatures, so having the flexibility to adjust the temperature ensures that your donuts will be cooked to perfection. Look for an air fryer with a wide temperature range.
3. Cooking Functions:
Some air fryers come with specific cooking functions that may be useful for donut making. Look for air fryers with a baking or pastry function, as these settings are designed to provide optimal cooking conditions for baked goods like donuts.
4. Ease of Cleaning:
Cleaning up after making donuts can be a messy task, so choose an air fryer that is easy to clean. Look for models with removable and dishwasher-safe parts, such as the cooking basket and drip tray. This will make the cleaning process much simpler and more convenient.
5. Customer Reviews:
Before making a final decision, take the time to read customer reviews and ratings of different air fryer models. Pay attention to reviews specifically related to donut making. This will give you insight into the experiences of other users and help you make an informed choice about which air fryer is best suited for your donut-making needs.
By considering factors such as capacity, temperature control, cooking functions, ease of cleaning, and customer reviews, you can choose the right air fryer for making delicious homemade donuts. With the right air fryer, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying crispy, golden-brown donuts whenever you please.
Gather Your Ingredients for Delicious Air Fryer Donuts
Before you can begin making the best air fryer donuts, you need to gather all the necessary ingredients. These sweet treats require a few staple items that you likely already have in your pantry, as well as some specific ingredients that will give your donuts that perfect texture and flavor.
To start, you will need all-purpose flour, which acts as the base for the donut batter. This flour will give your donuts a fluffy texture and help them hold their shape as they cook in the air fryer. Next, gather some granulated sugar, which will provide sweetness and add a slight crunch to the exterior of the donuts.
Additionally, you will need baking powder and salt to help the dough rise and enhance the flavors of the other ingredients. For a rich and tender donut, include some buttermilk and melted butter in the recipe. These ingredients will give your donuts a moist and buttery taste that pairs perfectly with any topping.
Finally, don’t forget the vanilla extract, which will add a hint of sweetness and aroma to your donuts. And of course, you’ll want to have a variety of toppings or glazes on hand to customize your air fryer donuts. Whether it’s powdered sugar, chocolate glaze, cinnamon sugar, or a fun fruity glaze, the choice is yours!
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated sugar
- Baking powder
- Salt
- Buttermilk
- Melted butter
- Vanilla extract
- Toppings or glazes
A Step-by-Step Guide for Making Delicious Air Fryer Donuts
Donuts are a classic sweet treat that everyone loves. If you’re looking to make homemade donuts that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, using an air fryer is a game-changer. Not only does it cut down on the amount of oil needed, but it also produces a healthier version of your favorite donuts.
Here is a step-by-step guide to help you make delicious air fryer donuts:
- Preparation: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients, including flour, sugar, yeast, milk, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Make sure you have an air fryer and donut molds as well. Prepare your work surface by dusting it with flour to prevent the dough from sticking.
- Mix the dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, and a pinch of salt. Heat the milk and butter until warm and add them to the dry ingredients. Stir in the eggs and vanilla extract until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead and rise: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in size.
- Shape the donuts: Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release any air bubbles. Roll out the dough to a 1/2-inch thickness and use a donut mold or a circular cutter to create the donut shapes. Place the shaped dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Air frying: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Lightly brush the donuts with melted butter or oil to promote browning. Place the donuts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching each other. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the donuts turn golden brown. Flip them halfway through the cooking time for even browning.
- Glaze and enjoy: Remove the donuts from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. You can glaze them with a simple powdered sugar and milk mixture or get creative with chocolate or flavored glazes. Dip the donuts into the glaze and let them set for a few minutes before enjoying.
With this simple step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to make delicious air fryer donuts that are sure to impress your family and friends. Experiment with different glazes, fillings, and toppings to create your own unique flavors. Happy donut making!
Tips and Tricks for Mastering the Art of Air Fryer Donut Making
The air fryer has revolutionized the way we cook our favorite indulgent treats, including donuts. With the right techniques and a little practice, you can create perfectly crispy and delicious donuts right from the comfort of your own home. Here are some tips and tricks to help you master the art of air fryer donut making:
- Preheat your air fryer: Just like with traditional baking, preheating your air fryer is essential for achieving optimal results. This helps ensure that the donuts cook evenly and have a crisp exterior. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for preheating time and temperature.
- Use the right dough: When making donuts in an air fryer, it’s important to use a dough that is suitable for this cooking method. Look for recipes specifically designed for air fryer donuts or opt for dough that is lightweight and can cook quickly. Avoid heavy doughs that may take longer to cook and can result in dense donuts.
- Size and shape: Consider the size and shape of your donuts when preparing them for the air fryer. Remember that donuts will expand slightly during cooking, so make sure to leave enough room between each donut to allow for proper airflow. You can experiment with different sizes and shapes to find what works best for you.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: To ensure that your donuts cook evenly and achieve a crispy texture, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook the donuts in batches if needed, giving each donut enough space to cook properly. This will help prevent them from sticking together or becoming mushy.
- Flip halfway through: For even browning and cooking, consider flipping your donuts halfway through the cooking process. This will help achieve a nicely browned exterior on both sides. Use a pair of tongs or a spatula to carefully flip the donuts without damaging their shape.
- Experiment with toppings: One of the great things about making donuts in an air fryer is the versatility when it comes to toppings. Once your donuts are cooked, you can get creative with various glazes, sprinkles, or even fillings. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try different combinations to find your favorite.
Mastering the art of air fryer donut making may take some time and practice, but with these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to creating delicious donuts that rival your favorite bakery. Remember to have fun and enjoy the process, and soon enough, you’ll be impressing your family and friends with your air fryer donut creations!
10 Best Air Fryer Donut Recipe
Ninja Air Fryer Pro 4-in-1 with 5 QT Capacity, Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, Dehydrate, Air Crisp Technology with 400F for hot, crispy results in just minutes,...
Features
| Part Number | AF141 |
| Model | AF141 |
| Color | Black |
| Release Date | 2024-03-05T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 5 QT |
- AIR CRISP TECHNOLOGY: 400℉ superheated air surrounds food for hot, crispy results with little to no oil.
- LARGE CAPACITY: The 5-QT nonstick basket and crisper plate fit up to 4 lbs of French fries or 5 lbs of chicken wings.
- 4-in-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
- GUILT-FREE FRIED FOODS: Up to 75% less fat than traditional air frying methods. Tested against hand-cut, deep-fried French fries.
- FROZEN TO CRISPY: Cook frozen foods in just minutes for an extra-crispy finish.
- SPACE SAVER: Ninja’s latest air fryer design allows you to save even more space on your countertop without compromising capacity.
- EASY TO CLEAN: The basket and crisper plate are both nonstick for easy cleaning.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Air Fryer, 5-QT nonstick basket and crisper plate, chef-inspired 20 recipe book and cooking charts.
COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt, Fast Turbo Modes, 90-450°F Evenly Results with Precise Temperature Control, 95% Less Oil, Roast, Bake, Dry,...
Features
| Part Number | CAF-DC601-KUS |
| Model | CAF-DC601-KUS |
| Color | Dark Gray |
| Release Date | 2023-11-01T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 6QT |
| Publication Date | 2024-03-01T00:00:01Z |
- - : Advanced Turbo Blaze Technology boosts your cooking efficiency during busy times, allowing you to prepare a full meal for your family in just minutes
- -- : Includes Air Fry, Roast, Bake, Broil, Dehydrate, Frozen, Proof, Reheat, and Keep Warm. Perfect alternative for Oven, Microwave and Dehydrator
- : The 5 Fan speed airflow system ensures golden, crispy, and juicy results for every meal
- - & : Enjoy a spacious 6-quart capacity in a compact size, perfect for family meals. Maximize cooking space without cluttering your kitchen, blending convenience with efficient design
- + : Provides calorie, carb, protein, and fat content per serving, with smart tracking of daily intake to help you manage your diet
- % : Enjoy the same crispy textures as traditional deep frying with up to 95% less oil. Enjoy all your favorite fried foods without guilty
- : Enjoy flexibility with our preheat program, which adjusts time based on temperature. Easily choose whether to preheat for optimal results, or skip it as the default setting for a hassle-free experience
- -: The non-stick cooking basket and detachable components make cleaning a breeze. Spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your delicious meals
- : 90°F–450°F covers all cooking temperatures
- ' : Air Fryer, 6-QT nonstick basket and crisper plate, chef-inspired 30 recipe book with pictures, cooking charts
Ninja DZ201 Foodi 8 Quart 6-in-1 DualZone 2-Basket Air Fryer with 2 Independent Frying Baskets, Match Cook & Smart Finish to Roast, Broil, Dehydrate & More...
Features
| Part Number | DZ201 |
| Model | DZ201 |
| Color | Grey |
| Release Date | 2020-09-02T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 8-QT |
| Publication Date | 2020-09-08T00:00:01Z |
- 2 INDEPENDENT BASKETS: The original Air Fryer with 2 independent baskets, the XL air fryer lets you cook 2 foods, 2 ways, at the same time, eliminating back-to-back cooking like a traditional single-basket air fryer.
- SMART FINISH & MATCH COOK: DualZone Technology allows you to choose between the Smart Finish feature, which unlocks cooking 2 foods 2 ways that finish at the same time, and the and a Match Cook button to easily copy settings across zones for full 8-qt capacity.
- 6-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Includes 6 versatile cooking programs: Air Fry, Air Broil, Roast, Bake, Reheat, and Dehydrate. The baskets can be washed in the dishwasher or by hand.
- XL CAPACITY: The 8-quart air fryer capacity lets you fit mains and sides at the same time for making quick family meals, or up to 4 lbs. of French fries or chicken wings.
- SEPARATE HEATING ZONES: 2 independent 4-quart zones have their own cooking baskets, cyclonic fans, and rapid heaters.
- EASY CLEANING: Easy-to-clean baskets and dishwasher-safe crisper plates.
- LESS FAT: Up to 75% less fat than traditional air frying methods. Tested against hand-cut, deep-fried French fries.
- WIDE TEMPERATURE RANGE: 105°F to 450°F allows you to gently remove moisture from foods or quickly cook and crisp foods with convection heat.
- WHAT'S INCLUDED: DualZone Air Fryer, (2) 4 Quart Baskets, (2) Nonstick Crisper Plates, 15 Recipes, Additional Meal Options & Cooking Charts.
- Cord Length: 32"
CHEFMAN Multifunctional Digital Air Fryer+ Rotisserie, Dehydrator, Convection Oven, 17 Touch Screen Presets Fry, Roast, Dehydrate, Bake, XL 10L Family Size,...
Features
| Part Number | RJ38-10-RDO-V2 |
| Model | RJ38-1 |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
| Color | Black |
| Size | 10 Quart |
- Versatile countertop cooking: Air fry, bake, dehydrate, rotisserie, or roast to crispy perfection in one convenient appliance
- Cook faster: No need to preheat like traditional ovens. This all-in-one convection oven uses rapid air heating elements to cook fast, even, and crispy food
- Healthy cooking made easy: Make healthy meals using 98% less oil than traditional fryers
- Simplified set-up: Anyone can cook perfect meals in minutes with 17 preset options and an easy-to-use capacitive touch control screen
- All-inclusive: Includes three air flow racks, stainless steel rotisserie oven spit with retrieval tool, and a drip tray
- Family-size meals: Make meals for the family with the extra-large 10-Liter capacity. Also great for meal-prepping large quantities of food
- Monitor cooking progress: The interior lights and extra-large air fryer oven window allow you to check your food's cooking progress
- Minimal clean-up: The removable drip tray and dishwasher-safe parts keep cleanup fast and simple
- Resources: cETL approved with advanced safety technology for long-lasting durability and a 1-year assurance provided by Chefman. 120 Volts/1700 Watts – RJ38-10-RDO-V2
- 11.8"D*12.2"W*14.6"H, 14.2 pounds (6,44kg)
COSORI 9Qt 8-in-1 Dual Air Fryer, Multi-dish Cooking at Once for Family and Couple with Double Baskets, Bake, Roast, Reheat, Broil, Dry & 130 Recipes for...
Features
| Part Number | CAF-R901-AUS |
| Model | CAF-R901-AUS |
| Color | Black, Gray |
| Release Date | 2024-02-07T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 9 QT |
- - : Customize each basket for easy protein and vegetable cooking, ideal for families, especially kids and fitness enthusiasts
- : Enjoy a fresh, warm meal together as the Sync Finish function completes different dishes at the same time
- : Separate baskets keep foods like seafood and vegetables distinct, ensuring better taste
- - : Two 4.5-quart baskets cook a full family dinner in one go, making mealtime more convenient
- 10 & : Enjoy features like Air Fry, Roast, Broil, Bake, Dry, Reheat, Sync Finish, Sync Cook, Preheat, and Shake for easier, more delicious meals
- : Easily sync settings for both 4.5-quart baskets with one button, cooking 9 quarts of food at the same temperature, time, and function
- - : Enjoy meals with 85% less oil than traditional frying, allowing families to eat more protein with less fat (*tested with French fries)
- 450° : Achieve a crispy exterior and juicy interior for perfectly browned steak
- : Compact, dishwasher-safe baskets with detachable plates for effortless cleaning by hand or machine
- 130+ : Cosori’s 30-cookbook and 100 online recipes with step-by-step instructions and nutritional info make meal prep effortless
FAQ
What is an air fryer donut?
An air fryer donut is a donut that is cooked using an air fryer instead of traditional deep frying methods. It is a healthier alternative to traditional donuts as it uses less oil.
How do I make donuts in an air fryer?
To make donuts in an air fryer, first preheat your air fryer to the desired temperature. Then, prepare your donut dough by mixing the ingredients together. Shape the dough into donut shapes and place them in the air fryer basket. Cook the donuts for the recommended time, flipping halfway through if necessary. Once cooked, remove the donuts from the air fryer and let them cool before adding any toppings or glazes.
What are some tips for making the perfect air fryer donuts?
Some tips for making perfect air fryer donuts include: using a non-stick spray or parchment paper to prevent sticking, flipping halfway through the cooking process for even browning, and letting the donuts cool before adding any toppings or glazes. Additionally, experimenting with different types of dough, such as using a yeast-based dough or a cake-like batter, can result in different textures and flavors of donuts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mastering the art of air fryer donut making can be a fun and delicious experience. By following these tips and tricks, you can create perfectly golden and flaky donuts that rival those from a traditional deep fryer. Experiment with different dough recipes, fillings, and toppings to create your own unique creations. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, the air fryer can be a versatile tool for making mouthwatering donuts. So, grab your air fryer and get ready to indulge in the sweet and satisfying world of homemade donuts. Happy donut making!
