Air Fryer Donuts: A Light, Fluffy Treat Made Easy

Air Fryer Donuts

There’s something magical about a warm, sugar-coated donut fresh from the fryer — golden, soft, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. But what if you could enjoy that same indulgent taste without deep-frying or making a mess in the kitchen? That’s where the air fryer donut steps in — crispy on the outside, fluffy inside, and perfectly golden brown with only a fraction of the oil.

Whether you’re a weekend baker or just discovering the wonders of your air fryer, this recipe will show you how to make bakery-quality donuts at home with simple ingredients and no frying pan required.

Why Make Donuts in an Air Fryer?

Traditional donuts are typically deep-fried, soaking up lots of oil. Air frying gives you all the texture and flavor you crave but with up to 80% less fat. Here’s why air fryer donuts are a game-changer:

• Healthier: Minimal oil, fewer calories, same great taste.

• No Mess: Skip the splattering oil and long cleanup.

• Fast & Efficient: Air fryers heat quickly and cook donuts evenly.

• Consistent Results: Perfect golden-brown donuts every time.

In short, you’ll get light, airy donuts that taste indulgent but feel guilt-free.

 Ingredients for Air Fryer Donuts

Here’s what you’ll need to create these pillowy-soft donuts:

These simple pantry staples come together to make the most satisfying air-fried donuts — crisp on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and coated in sweet, buttery sugar.

 How to Make Air Fryer Donuts (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by dissolving 1 tablespoon of fresh yeast in warm milk (about 100°F or 38°C). Let it sit for a few minutes until bubbles begin to form. This means the yeast is active and ready to help your dough rise beautifully.

✅ Tip: If you don’t have fresh yeast, you can substitute it with 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of all-purpose flour with 1/3 cup of potato starch. The potato starch helps give the donuts their signature tender crumb and fluffy texture.

Add 1 egg, vegetable oil, and lemon zest. Stir everything together with a fork until combined, then mix in the sugar and vanilla extract for sweetness and aroma.

Step 3: Combine and Knead

Gradually pour in the milk with dissolved yeast while stirring. Start mixing with a fork, then switch to kneading by hand. Keep kneading until the dough is smooth, soft, and not sticky — about 8–10 minutes.

✅ Pro Tip: If the dough feels too wet, sprinkle a little more flour; if too dry, add a tablespoon of milk.

Step 4: Let It Rise

Place the dough in a clean bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise for 2 hours in a warm spot. This resting period allows the yeast to work its magic, giving you a soft and airy texture.

Step 5: Shape the Donuts

Once the dough has doubled in size, roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about ½-inch thickness. Use a round pastry cutter to cut out donut shapes, and a smaller cutter (or the tip of a piping bag) to make the hole in the middle.

Place each donut on a small square of parchment paper to make transferring easier later.

Step 6: Second Rise

Cover the donuts with plastic wrap and a kitchen towel. Let them rise again for about 45 minutes until puffy and light. This second proof ensures a soft, airy texture once cooked.

Step 7: Air Fry the Donuts

Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C). Place the donuts inside (on their parchment squares) in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch. Air fry for 5 minutes, flipping halfway if needed, until golden brown.

Each air fryer model cooks differently, so keep an eye on them — you’re looking for that perfect golden hue and springy texture.

Step 8: Coat and Enjoy

While the donuts are still warm, brush with melted butter and roll in granulated sugar for that classic sweet coating. You can also dust them with cinnamon sugar or fill them with jam, Nutella, or custard for extra indulgence.

Optional Add-ons:

• Dip in melted chocolate for a glazed version

• Sprinkle with powdered sugar

• Fill with vanilla cream for a bakery-style twist

 Air Fryer Donut Variations

The beauty of air fryer donuts is their versatility. Here are some creative ideas to try:

1. Cinnamon Sugar Donuts – Mix 1 tsp cinnamon with ½ cup sugar and roll the warm donuts in the blend.

2. Chocolate Glazed Donuts – Dip the tops in melted chocolate and let them set.

3. Filled Donuts – Use a piping bag to fill the center with jam, custard, or caramel.

4. Vegan Air Fryer Donuts – Substitute milk with almond or oat milk and use plant-based butter.

5. Mini Donut Holes – Use the cut-out centers and air fry them for bite-sized treats.

Common Questions (PAA Section)

1. Can I use active dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?

Yes! Substitute 1 tablespoon of fresh yeast with 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast. Just make sure to dissolve it in warm milk and let it bloom for about 10 minutes.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the dough and let it rise, then refrigerate overnight. Before air frying, let it come to room temperature and rise again for about 45 minutes.

3. How long do air fryer donuts stay fresh?

They’re best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes to bring back the softness.

4. Can I freeze the donuts?

Yes! Freeze them after air frying (before coating with butter and sugar). When ready to serve, thaw and reheat in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes, then brush with butter and roll in sugar.

5. Why did my donuts turn out dense?

Dense donuts usually result from under-proofing (not letting the dough rise enough) or too much flour. Always allow the dough to double in size before shaping, and measure your flour properly.

Expert Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Donuts

• Don’t overcrowd your air fryer: Air circulation is key for even cooking.

• Use parchment squares: It prevents sticking and makes transferring easy.

• Brush lightly with oil: For an extra golden crust, brush donuts with a touch of oil before air frying.

• Always preheat the air fryer: It ensures consistent temperature and even browning.

Flavor Spotlight: Lemon and Vanilla

The zest of one lemon adds a bright, fresh note that perfectly complements the warm vanilla flavor. This balance gives your air fryer donuts that classic bakery aroma — irresistible and comforting.

If you love experimenting, try substituting lemon zest with orange zest or adding a touch of ground nutmeg for a cozy twist.

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft, golden, and irresistible — every bite is pure comfort.

• No deep frying, no oil splatters — just light, fluffy perfection.

• Simple ingredients, big results.

• Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Once you try making donuts in your air fryer, you’ll never go back to traditional frying again.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your air fryer donuts with:

• Morning coffee or espresso for a café-style treat.

• Hot chocolate or milk for a cozy afternoon snack.

• A drizzle of honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.

Pair them with a sprinkle of joy — and watch them disappear fast!

❤️ Final Thoughts: Homemade Donuts, Reinvented

These air fryer donuts prove that homemade baking doesn’t have to be complicated or unhealthy. With just a few ingredients, a bit of patience, and your trusty air fryer, you can create donuts that are crispy, soft, and sweetly satisfying — every time.

So, the next time that donut craving hits, skip the bakery and grab your air fryer instead. You’ll have warm, sugar-dusted donuts in minutes — and your kitchen will smell like heaven.

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