Easy Air Fryer Donuts from Scratch
There’s nothing quite like a warm, fluffy donut fresh from the fryer. But what if you could skip the excess oil and still enjoy that delicious homemade taste? That’s where these easy air fryer donuts from scratch come in!
With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a batch of fresh, pillowy donuts right in your air fryer. No deep frying, no messy cleanup—just perfectly golden donuts that taste just like they came from your favorite bakery.
This recipe is perfect for beginners, requiring minimal effort while delivering amazing results. Whether you’re making them for a special breakfast treat or a fun weekend baking project, these air fryer donuts are sure to be a hit!
Plus, you can customize them with your favorite toppings—glaze, cinnamon sugar, chocolate drizzle, or sprinkles—to make them uniquely yours.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Alternative: These donuts are air-fried, meaning they contain significantly less oil than deep-fried versions.
- Easy & Quick: No deep-frying or messy oil—just a simple dough and a quick air fry.
- Customizable: Use different glazes, fillings, and toppings to make them your own.
- Kid-Friendly: A fun and easy recipe for baking with kids!
Perfect Pairings
Enjoy your air fryer donuts with:
- A hot cup of coffee or a latte
- A tall glass of cold milk
- Fresh fruit for a balanced treat
- A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Donuts
- Don’t Skip the Rise: Letting the dough double in size ensures light and fluffy donuts.
- Use Parchment Paper: To prevent sticking, place a piece of parchment in the air fryer basket before adding the donuts.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Air fry in batches to allow proper airflow and even cooking.
- Glaze While Warm: This helps the glaze absorb for the perfect sweet finish.
Easy Air Fryer Donuts from Scratch
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 teaspoons 1 packet active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm milk about 110°F
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Cooking spray for air fryer
For Topping
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk for glaze
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Cinnamon sugar optional
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm milk and sugar, then stir in the yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and yeast mixture. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Let It Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for about an hour or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Donuts: Roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (one larger for the donut shape and a smaller one for the hole) to form your donuts.
- Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray. Arrange donuts in a single layer (work in batches if necessary) and air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Add Toppings: Dip warm donuts in glaze or coat with cinnamon sugar for a classic finish.
Variations & Alternatives
- Chocolate Donuts: Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the flour mixture and use chocolate glaze.
- Filled Donuts: Skip the hole and inject with jam, custard, or Nutella after frying.
- Vegan Option: Use almond milk and a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water) instead of regular egg.
- Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
Common Questions
Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before rolling and cutting.
Can I freeze air fryer donuts?
Yes! Store them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes before serving.
What if I don’t have a donut cutter?
Use a round glass or cup for the outer circle and a small bottle cap for the hole.
Making donuts at home has never been easier, thanks to the air fryer! This recipe delivers bakery-quality results with less effort, less mess, and fewer calories. Whether you’re a donut lover or just looking for a fun new recipe to try, these homemade air fryer donuts will be a family favorite in no time.
