Air Fryer Donuts
These Easy Air Fryer Donuts satisfy your sweet cravings with a fluffy texture and a golden exterior, all without the hassle of deep frying.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2.25 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 0.75 cup warm milk, about 110 F
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 0.5 teaspoon fine salt
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Coating and Glaze Ingredients
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar or cinnamon sugar, and a little melted butter For coating
- 1 cup powdered sugar For optional glaze
- 2-3 tablespoons milk For optional glaze
- 1 pinch salt For optional glaze
- 1 splash vanilla For optional glaze
Instructions
Preparing the Dough
- In a bowl, mix warm milk and sugar, then sprinkle in yeast. Let it sit until foamy, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Stir in egg, melted butter, vanilla, salt, and flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead by hand on a lightly floured surface for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and slightly springy.
First Rise
- Place dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled, about 60 to 75 minutes.
Shaping the Donuts
- Gently turn dough onto a floured counter. Roll to about 1/2 inch thick. Cut rings with a donut cutter, or use a wide glass and a small bottle cap for the center.
- Arrange donuts and holes on parchment squares. Cover and let rise until puffy, 20 to 30 minutes.
Cooking the Donuts
- Preheat the air fryer to 350 F. Lightly brush the basket or parchment with neutral oil.
- Place donuts in a single layer with space around them. Air fry 4 to 6 minutes, flipping at 3 minutes.
Coating the Donuts
- While warm, brush with melted butter and toss in sugar or cinnamon sugar, or dip in glaze and let set on a rack.
Notes
For a more indulgent treat, mix and apply the optional glaze while the donuts are still warm. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temp for 1 to 2 days.