Air Fryer Donuts from Scratch: A Fun and Easy Baking Project

Air Fryer Donuts

Yields: 10-12 donuts Prep time: 30 minutes Cook time: 8-10 minutes

Ingredients:

• For the donuts:

  • 1 cup warm milk (105-110°F / 40-43°C)

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar, plus 1 teaspoon

  • 1 large egg, at room temperature

  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • Oil spray (coconut oil spray works best)

• For the glaze:

  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar

  • 3-4 tablespoons milk

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • Optional: sprinkles, chocolate chips, chopped nuts
    

Equipment:

• Air fryer

• Large bowl

• Plastic wrap

• Rolling pin

• 3-inch donut cutter (or a 3-inch round cutter and a 1-inch round cutter)

• Parchment paper (optional)
  

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:

   • In a large bowl, combine warm milk, yeast, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Let stand for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
     

2. Make the Dough:

   • In the same bowl, whisk in the remaining 1/4 cup sugar, egg, and melted butter.

   • Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms.

   • Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.

   • Place the dough in a greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
     

3. Shape the Donuts:

   • Punch down the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness.

   • Use a donut cutter to cut out donuts. If you don't have a donut cutter, use a 3-inch round cutter to cut out circles, then a 1-inch round cutter to remove the centers.

   • Place the donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and let rise for 30 minutes.
     

4. Air Fry the Donuts:

   • Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).

   • Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil.

   • Carefully place the donuts in the basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching.

   • Spray the tops of the donuts with oil.

   • Air fry for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
     

5. Make the Glaze:

   • While the donuts are cooking, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency.
     

6. Glaze and Decorate:

   • Dip the warm donuts in the glaze and let the excess drip off.

   • Place the glazed donuts on a wire rack and decorate with sprinkles, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts, if desired.
     

Tips & Variations:

• Flavor Variations: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a spiced flavor. You can also add 1/2 cup of your favorite mix-ins, like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit.
  

• Glaze Variations: Get creative with the glaze! Use different extracts like almond or lemon, or add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolate glaze.
  

Reheating: To reheat leftover donuts, place them in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 1-2 minutes, or until warmed through.