Soft and Fluffy Air Fryer Donuts Recipe
Homemade donuts have always been a favorite treat, but making them in an air fryer takes the experience to a whole new level. These air fryer donuts are soft, fluffy, and golden with the perfect balance of sweetness. The best part is you can enjoy them without the mess and heaviness of deep frying, giving you a lighter yet equally indulgent version.
This recipe is simple enough for beginners yet delicious enough to impress family and friends. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create bakery style donuts right in your kitchen. Whether you coat them in cinnamon sugar, glaze them, or keep them plain, these donuts are sure to become a regular on your dessert menu.
Why You Need This Recipe
Air fryer donuts are a fantastic way to enjoy a beloved classic with less oil and fewer calories. They come out beautifully golden and soft every time, making them a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste or texture.
This recipe is also quick, convenient, and customizable. You can make them for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet afternoon snack. The air fryer eliminates the hassle of hot oil while delivering the same delicious results, making it the perfect method for homemade donuts.
Ingredients
The magic of this recipe is in its simplicity, and each ingredient contributes to that soft, fluffy texture everyone loves.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx) |
|---|---|---|
| All purpose flour | 2 cups | 910 |
| Sugar | 1/4 cup | 200 |
| Milk (warm) | 3/4 cup | 110 |
| Active dry yeast | 2 1/4 tsp | 20 |
| Butter (melted) | 3 tbsp | 300 |
| Egg | 1 large | 70 |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | 0 |
Total per donut (approx 12): 135 calories
How to Prepare
Start by activating the yeast in warm milk with a teaspoon of sugar. Once foamy, mix in the remaining sugar, egg, melted butter, and salt. Gradually add the flour until a soft dough forms. Knead the dough for several minutes until smooth, then let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size.
After rising, roll the dough and cut out donut shapes with a cutter. Place them on parchment paper and let them rest for a second rise. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F and lightly grease the basket. Cook the donuts in batches for 5 to 6 minutes until golden and fluffy. Once cooled slightly, coat them with cinnamon sugar or dip them in your favorite glaze.
Pro Tips
Make sure your milk is warm but not hot when activating the yeast, as high heat can kill it. A properly activated yeast will give you light and airy donuts with the perfect texture.
For even cooking, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Always allow space between donuts so hot air can circulate around each one. Brushing a light layer of melted butter on the donuts before coating with sugar or glaze helps the topping stick better.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
These donuts are versatile and can be dressed up in many ways. A classic sugar glaze gives them a bakery feel, while a chocolate dip makes them irresistible. You can also try rolling them in cinnamon sugar for a nostalgic touch.
Pair your air fryer donuts with a hot cup of coffee, cappuccino, or even a chilled glass of milk. For a brunch spread, serve them alongside fresh fruit and yogurt for a balance of sweet and refreshing flavors.
Conclusion
Air fryer donuts prove that you can enjoy a classic treat with less oil and less effort. They are fluffy, light, and endlessly customizable, making them perfect for any occasion. With this recipe, you can create donuts that taste just as good as the deep fried version but in a healthier and easier way.
These donuts will quickly become a family favourite and a recipe you will turn to again and again. From busy mornings to special gatherings, they bring comfort, sweetness, and joy to every bite.
