Easy Air Fryer Doughnut

Craving doughnuts without the guilt of deep frying? Look no further! Introducing the Air Fryer Doughnut – a treat that’s just as delightful but with fewer calories.

Let’s dive into this simple recipe that promises a fluffy finish with a crispy exterior. Plus, a bonus glazing option for that extra touch of sweetness!

Ingredients for the air fryer doughnut

• Flour – All-purpose flour – 3 cups
• Active dry yeast – 2 1/2 tsp
• Warm milk – 3/4 cup
• Warm water – 1/4 cup
• Unsalted Butter (room temperature) – 50g
• Eggs – 3
• Sugar – 1/2 cup
• Salt – 1/4 tsp
• Cooking spray (to prevent the doughnut from sticking to the air fryer)

For the glazing

• Vanilla extract – 1/2 tsp – Can be omitted
• Powdered sugar – 1/2 cup
• Water – 3 – 4 tsp
• Sprinkles – Optional

How to store leftover doughnuts

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a minute to refresh. You can keep them in the fridge also for up to 2 days.

How to make doughnuts in the air fryer

Prep the yeast: In a small cup, add the yeast and pour the warm water into the cup. Add a pinch of sugar (this allows the yeast to rise quickly). Mix the yeast until it all dissolved. Cover the yeast and set aside for about 5 – 10 minutes to allow it to rise.

My expert tip for activating yeast

If you use hot water – it will deactivate the yeast.

If you use cold water, it will take a very long time to activate the yeast.

The added sugar makes the activation quicker!

While waiting for the yeast to rise, prepare the dough.

Prep the Dough: Sieve your flour into a big bowl (should be bigger to allow the dough to rise).

Add the remaining ingredients into a bowl with the flour. break 2 eggs, add the warm milk, and pour the yeast mixture. Gently mix the combination until you have a well-mixed dough.

Cover the mixture and set aside to rise (ideally to double its size) – This might take about 1 hour in warm weather.

Open the dough – knead properly for about 10 minutes

Roll your dough into about 1/4″ thickness

Use a small round cutter to make a hole in the center of each round dough. If you do not have a doughnut cutter, you can substitute it with any round object with a similar diameter as your desired doughnut size. Cut out the center with the mouth of a small bottle

Preheat the Air Fryer: Set it to 350°F (175°C).

Arrange Doughnuts: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the doughnuts in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they’re spaced out. When next I am making my air fryer doughnuts, I will spread them out even more! The ones above eventually became crowded!

Cook: Air fry the doughnuts for 5-6 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.

Coat the doughnut with whisked egg and air fry for 2 minutes more – This provides a crispy, glossy look!

Prepare the Glaze: While the doughnuts are cooking, mix powdered sugar, water, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. The mixture should be pourable. Adjust consistency with more water or sugar if needed.

Glaze and Serve: Once the doughnuts are done, dip them into the glaze while they’re still warm, letting the excess drip off. Place them on a cooling rack or plate.

If you desire to add sprinkles, now is the time to add sprinkles. Let them set for a minute, then enjoy!

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade doughnut dough?
   • Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade doughnut recipe, shape your doughnuts and proceed with the air frying instructions.
2. Can I add flavors to the glaze?
   • Yes! Feel free to incorporate cocoa powder for a chocolate glaze, or add citrus zest like lemon or orange for a zesty twist.
3. Can I add fillings to these doughnuts?
   • I prefer adding the fillings to my doughnut with fillings like jam or cream after air frying. Make a hole (you can use a syringe), prefilled with your desired fillings to evenly add the fillings into the doughnuts.
4. Can I make doughnut holes?
   • Sure! Use the cut-out centers from the biscuits and air fry them for 3-4 minutes, then glaze.

Conclusion: Air Fryer Doughnuts are proof that you don’t need to compromise on taste for a healthier option. Light, airy, and with a delightful crunch, these are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. Dive into the world of guilt-free indulgence and satisfy that sweet tooth!

Continue exploring the versatile world of air frying with our other recipes. Share your doughnut creations using #AirFryerTreats and let’s spread the love for healthier indulgences!