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Easy Air Fryer Donuts Recipe

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4.9 from 59 reviews

These easy air fryer donuts are a delightful homemade treat perfect for breakfast or dessert. Made with a soft, yeast-leavened dough, they are quickly cooked in the air fryer for a healthier alternative to traditional fried donuts. Finished with a rich vanilla glaze, these donuts are fluffy, tender, and full of flavor with a perfectly golden exterior.

Ingredients

Donut Dough

  • 1 cup lukewarm milk (100°F)
  • 2½ teaspoons active dry yeast
  • ¼ cup plus 1 teaspoon white sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 egg
  • ¼ cup unsalted melted butter
  • 3 cups plain flour
  • Coconut oil spray, for air fryer basket

Glaze

  • 6 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 4 tablespoons hot water

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine lukewarm milk, active dry yeast, and white sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is active. Then whisk in the salt, egg, and melted butter until fully incorporated.
  2. Make the dough: Gradually add the plain flour to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft and slightly sticky dough forms. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
  3. Shape the donuts: Punch down the risen dough to release air. Roll the dough out to about ½ inch thickness. Cut into donut shapes using a donut cutter, or form balls and create a hole in the center of each to mimic traditional donuts. Arrange the shaped donuts on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover loosely, and let them rest for 15-20 minutes to rise slightly.
  4. Air fry the donuts: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray the basket with coconut oil spray to prevent sticking. Place the donuts in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary. Air fry each side for 4-6 minutes until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Remove them and allow to cool slightly on a wire rack.
  5. Prepare the glaze: While the donuts cool, combine softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a bowl. Gradually stir in hot water, mixing until the glaze reaches a smooth and pourable consistency.
  6. Glaze the donuts: Dip or drizzle the warm donuts with the prepared glaze. Place them on a wire rack and allow the glaze to set completely before serving.

Notes

  • If you do not have a donut cutter, use two round cutters of different sizes to achieve the donut shape or shape the dough by hand.
  • Ensure the milk is lukewarm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
  • Donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • You can customize the glaze by adding cocoa powder for chocolate glaze or cinnamon for a spiced flavor.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches for even baking and browning.

Find it online: https://oliviabakes.com/easy-air-fryer-donuts-recipe/