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Delicious easy air fryer donuts topped with icing and sprinkles.

Air Fryer Donuts

Air Fryer Donuts are a healthier twist on a classic treat, offering a light and fluffy texture with a sweet glaze, perfect for breakfast or dessert.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 4 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 donuts
Calories 220 kcal

Ingredients
  

Dough Ingredients

  • 1 cup lukewarm milk Heated to 100°F to activate the yeast.
  • 2½ teaspoons active dry yeast Essential for that light, airy texture.
  • ¼ cup plus 1 teaspoon white sugar Balances the flavors.
  • ½ teaspoon salt Enhances overall taste.
  • 1 large egg A rich binding agent.
  • ¼ cup melted unsalted butter Adds rich flavor.
  • 3 cups plain flour Provides structure.
  • Coconut oil spray Coconut oil spray To help achieve a golden-brown crust.

Glaze Ingredients

  • 6 tablespoons butter For melting into the glaze.
  • 2 cups powdered sugar For the sweet glaze.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract Adds flavor.
  • 4 tablespoons hot water Helps achieve the perfect glaze consistency.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Mix lukewarm milk, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and yeast in a small bowl and set aside for about 10 minutes until foamy.
  • In a large bowl, combine the remaining sugar, salt, egg, melted butter, and 2 cups of flour.
  • Gradually add the yeast mixture, mixing until well combined, then add the last cup of flour to form a soft, slightly sticky dough.
  • Mix the dough on medium-low speed for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Shaping

  • Turn out the dough onto a floured surface and roll it to about ½ inch thick.
  • Use a 3-inch cutter to cut out donuts and a 1-inch cutter for the centers.
  • Place the shaped donuts on parchment paper and let rise for an additional 30 minutes.

Cooking

  • Preheat the air fryer to 350°F and lightly spray the basket with coconut oil.
  • Air fry the donuts for about 4 minutes until golden brown, spraying with oil halfway through.

Glazing

  • Melt the butter and stir in powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and hot water until smooth.
  • Dip the warm donuts in the glaze and let set on a wire rack.

Notes

Ensure the milk is lukewarm, and use a kitchen scale for precise flour measurements. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer for even cooking.
Keyword Air Fryer Donuts, Baked Donuts, Healthy Donuts, Homemade Donuts, Sweet Treats