Air Fryer Doughnut Recipes: 5 Irresistible Delights to Try

Name: Air Fryer Doughnut Recipes: 5 Irresistible Delights to Try
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 21 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 17, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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There’s something magical about whipping up a batch of homemade air fryer doughnuts. Seriously, you won’t believe how quick and easy it is! With just a handful of ingredients, you can create these fluffy, delicious treats that are perfect for breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack. I love how the air fryer gives them that delightful golden crust without all the mess of frying in oil. Trust me, once you try these air fryer doughnut recipes, you’ll be hooked! They’re not just a treat; they’re a fun little project that the whole family can enjoy together!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Doughnut Recipes

To make these delightful air fryer doughnuts, you’ll need some simple, everyday ingredients. Here’s what you’ll gather:

2 cups all-purpose flour: This will give your doughnuts the perfect structure.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: For that sweet touch that balances the flavors.
2 teaspoons baking powder: This helps the doughnuts rise beautifully.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Just a pinch to enhance the sweetness.
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A warm spice that adds depth to the flavor.
1/2 cup milk: Use whole milk for creaminess!
2 large eggs: These bind everything together and add richness.
1/4 cup melted butter: For that irresistible buttery flavor.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the taste!

Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to doughnut perfection!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Doughnuts

Making air fryer doughnuts is a breeze and honestly, so much fun! Let’s break this down into simple steps to ensure you’re set up for success. Follow along, and soon you’ll have a batch of warm, fluffy doughnuts that will make your kitchen smell heavenly!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, you’ll want to start by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because a hot air fryer ensures your doughnuts cook evenly and rise beautifully. While it’s heating, grab two mixing bowls. In one bowl, combine the dry ingredients: the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. Make sure to whisk them together well to evenly distribute all those flavors.

In the second bowl, it’s time for the wet ingredients! Mix together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. You want that buttery goodness to blend smoothly with the milk and eggs. Once your wet ingredients are ready, pour them into the bowl with the dry ingredients.

Here’s where the magic happens—mix everything until just combined. It’s okay if there are a few lumps; overmixing can lead to dense doughnuts, and we want them fluffy! Now, prepare your doughnut pan, whether it’s silicone or metal. If you’re using a metal pan, a light spray of cooking oil will help the doughnuts release easily. If you have a silicone mold, you can skip this step!

Now, fill your doughnut pan with the batter. Don’t overfill—about two-thirds full is perfect to allow room for rising. Carefully place the pan in the preheated air fryer and set the timer for 5-6 minutes. Keep an eye on them; every air fryer is a little different, and you want them golden brown and cooked through.

Once the time is up, remove the doughnuts and let them cool slightly in the pan for a couple of minutes. This cooling time helps them firm up just enough for easy handling. After a brief wait, turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Now, they’re ready for glazing or dusting with sugar! Enjoy the deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: You can whip up these air fryer doughnuts in just about 15 minutes, making them a perfect treat for busy mornings!
Easy Cleanup: With just a few bowls and your air fryer, cleanup is a breeze—no messy frying oil to deal with!
Delicious Taste: These doughnuts are soft, fluffy, and bursting with flavor, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Customizable: You can easily experiment with glazes and toppings to create your own unique versions!
Family Fun: Making these doughnuts is a great way to spend quality time with loved ones in the kitchen.

Tips for Success with Air Fryer Doughnut Recipes

To ensure your air fryer doughnuts turn out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips that I swear by! First up, consider using silicone molds—they’re a game-changer for easy release and clean-up. You won’t have to worry about your doughnuts sticking!

Next, don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors! You can add a teaspoon of cinnamon for warmth or a splash of orange zest for a bright kick. If you want to make them even more indulgent, try swapping out half the milk for buttermilk for an extra tender texture.

Also, remember to check your doughnuts a minute or two before the timer goes off. Every air fryer is a little different, and you want to catch them at that perfect golden brown! Lastly, let your doughnuts cool completely before glazing to ensure the toppings stick beautifully. Happy frying!

Variations on Air Fryer Doughnut Recipes

Once you’ve mastered the basic air fryer doughnuts, the fun truly begins with all the delicious variations you can create! For a classic twist, try a rich chocolate glaze made from melted chocolate and a splash of cream; it’s pure indulgence! If you’re feeling fruity, a strawberry glaze with fresh puréed strawberries can brighten up your doughnuts with a sweet, tart flavor.

Feeling adventurous? Add sprinkles on top of any glaze for a festive touch that kids absolutely love. You can also infuse the batter with spices like cinnamon or even pumpkin spice for a seasonal treat. The possibilities are endless, and each variation is a delightful surprise!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk numbers! Each of these delightful air fryer doughnuts comes in at about 180 calories. They have 7g of fat, with 4g being saturated fat, which gives them that rich flavor we all love. You’ll also find 3g of protein and 25g of carbohydrates in each doughnut, making them a satisfying treat. Plus, they contain 8g of sugar, which adds just the right amount of sweetness without being overwhelming. Perfect for a little indulgence any time of day!

FAQ About Air Fryer Doughnut Recipes

Q1: Can I use different types of flour for these doughnuts?
Absolutely! While all-purpose flour gives the best results, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free blends. Just keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly.

Q2: How do I store any leftover doughnuts?
To keep your doughnuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay tasty for a couple of days, but trust me, they’re usually gone in no time!

Q3: Can I make these doughnuts ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it for a few hours. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before filling the doughnut pan and air frying.

Q4: What can I use for glazing besides traditional icing?
Oh, the options are endless! You can simply dust them with powdered sugar, dip them in melted chocolate, or even drizzle some caramel sauce over the top for a decadent twist!

Q5: Are these doughnuts healthy?
While they’re a treat, they’re definitely healthier than deep-fried doughnuts! Using the air fryer reduces the amount of oil, making them a lighter option you can feel good about enjoying!