Who doesn’t love a warm, fluffy donut? But here’s the kicker—you don’t need to deep-fry them anymore. That’s right. With an air fryer, you can whip up mouthwatering donuts in your own kitchen—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and way lighter than traditional ones.

This detailed guide spills the beans on how to make perfect air fryer donuts from scratch (or with shortcuts), using simple ingredients and everyday tools. Whether you’re a seasoned home baker or just craving something sweet without the mess, you’re in the right place.

Let’s dive into the magic of making air fryer donuts, starting with why this trend has taken over kitchens everywhere.

Introduction to Air Fryer Donuts

The Rise of Air Frying in Modern Kitchens

Over the past few years, air fryers have gone from trendy gadgets to must-have kitchen staples. They’re not just for fries and frozen snacks anymore. From roasted veggies to juicy chicken and now homemade donuts, these compact ovens are showing off big-time.

So, why the hype?

Well, air fryers use rapid hot air circulation to mimic deep frying, but with way less oil—sometimes none at all. That means crispy results without the guilt. This method doesn’t just save calories; it cuts down on mess and cleanup too.

For busy folks and health-conscious bakers, that’s a win-win.

Why Choose Air Fryer Donuts Over Traditional Methods

Traditional donuts? Sure, they’re tasty. But between all the oil, the smell, and the time it takes to heat up a whole pot of grease, things can get… messy.

Air fryer donuts, on the other hand, are simple, healthier, and quicker to make. You don’t need a fryer, a candy thermometer, or even a special dough hook. Plus, the texture—golden and crisp on the outside, fluffy inside—is honestly irresistible.

Here’s what makes air fryer donuts stand out:

Less oil means fewer calories.
They cook faster than oven-baked donuts.
Cleanup is a breeze.
The texture stays light, not greasy or soggy.
They work great with both homemade dough and store-bought shortcuts.

Air fryer donuts aren’t just a trend. They’re a smarter, tastier way to enjoy a timeless treat.

Now, ready to learn what they’re made of and how they stack up against the classic kind? Let’s get to it in the next part.

What Are Air Fryer Donuts?

Definition and Basic Concept

Air fryer donuts are just what they sound like—donuts cooked in an air fryer. No deep-frying. No gallons of oil. Just warm, soft donuts with a golden crust.

They can be made from scratch dough, pre-made biscuit dough, or even gluten-free mixes. You shape them, pop them in the fryer, and let hot air do the magic.

These donuts turn out crispy on the outside and tender inside. Almost like the deep-fried ones—but lighter.

Differences Between Air-Fried and Deep-Fried Donuts

So, how do they compare?

Deep-fried donuts soak up a lot of oil. That makes them heavy and greasy. Air-fried donuts use little to no oil. That means fewer calories and less mess.

Here’s a quick look at the key differences:

Cooking Method
Air fryer donuts cook with hot air. Deep-fried donuts are cooked in oil.
Texture
Air-fried ones are light and crisp. Deep-fried ones are rich and oily.
Health Impact
Air-fried food has less fat. Deep-fried food has more calories and often more saturated fat.
Cleanup
Air fryers are easy to clean. Deep-frying? Not so much.

Health Benefits of Air-Frying Donuts

Let’s talk about the health side. Air-fried donuts can be part of a better eating plan—especially if you’re watching fat or calories.

Here’s why:

They use little to no oil.
They have lower saturated fat.
You can use whole wheat, gluten-free, or even vegan ingredients.
They help reduce cholesterol intake if you avoid deep-frying oils.

And let’s be real—when you don’t feel sluggish after eating one (or three), that’s a win.

But don’t worry. You still get the sweet, satisfying taste of a real donut. Just without the extra grease.

Coming up: the simple ingredients and tools you need to get started. It’s easier than you think.

Ingredients and Equipment Needed

Essential Ingredients for Air Fryer Donuts

You don’t need anything fancy. Just a few pantry basics will do.

Basic Dough Components

To make air fryer donuts from scratch, you’ll need:

All-purpose flour – The base of your dough.
Granulated sugar – For a touch of sweetness.
Active dry yeast – Helps the donuts rise.
Milk – This makes the dough soft and fluffy.
Butter – Adds flavor and richness.
Egg – Gives structure to the dough.
Salt – Balances the sweet flavors.

These are the simple building blocks of a tasty donut. You likely have most of them already.

Optional Fillings and Toppings

Want to jazz them up? Here are some fun add-ons:

Jam, jelly, or chocolate – For filled donuts.
Powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar – For coating.
Glaze or icing – To dip or drizzle.
Sprinkles or nuts – For a fun finish.

The sky’s the limit. You can keep it classic or go wild with toppings.

Necessary Equipment

Let’s talk tools. You don’t need a mixer or a donut maker.

Choosing the Right Air Fryer

Any air fryer will work, but here’s what helps:

A wide basket for more room.
A non-stick surface for easy cleanup.
Temperature control (goes up to 400°F).

A medium or large model gives donuts more space to cook evenly.

Additional Tools for Donut Preparation

A few extras make things easier:

Mixing bowls – For combining ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons – To keep things accurate.
Rolling pin – For shaping the dough.
Round cutters – One big, one small (or use a glass and a bottle cap).
Parchment paper – Keeps donuts from sticking.

And that’s it. No deep fryer, no oil splatter, and no mess.

Next, we’ll start making the dough. It’s easier than it sounds—and smells amazing.

Preparing the Dough

Step-by-Step Dough Preparation

Making dough for air fryer donuts is easier than most people think. It just takes a little time and care. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll get it right.

Activating the Yeast

Start by waking up the yeast.

Warm 1/2 cup of milk. It should be warm, not hot.
Add 1 tablespoon of sugar and 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast.
Stir gently. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes.

The mix should bubble or foam. That means the yeast is active and ready.

Mixing and Kneading the Dough

Now, it’s time to bring everything together.

In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of flour and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
Add the yeast mix, 1 egg, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and 2 more tablespoons of sugar.
Stir until it forms a dough.

If it’s too sticky, add more flour—just a little at a time.

Now knead.

Knead by hand on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes.
The dough should be soft and smooth, not sticky.

You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook if you have one.

First Proofing: Allowing the Dough to Rise

Once your dough is ready:

Place it in a greased bowl.
Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap.
Let it sit in a warm place for 1–2 hours.

The dough should double in size. If your kitchen is cold, place the bowl near a sunny window or warm oven (turned off).

And that’s it. Your dough is done and ready for shaping.

Next up, we’ll shape those donuts and let them rise again before air frying.

Shaping and Second Proofing

Shaping the Donuts

Now that your dough has risen, it’s time to shape it.

Rolling Out the Dough

Lightly flour your surface.
Place the dough on it.
Use a rolling pin to flatten the dough. Aim for about 1/2 inch thick.

Don’t roll it too thin. Thicker dough makes softer donuts.

Cutting Donut Shapes and Holes

Use a round cutter. You can also use a drinking glass. For the hole, try a small bottle cap or a mini cutter.

Cut as many donuts as you can.
Gently pull away the extra dough.
Shape the holes too—they make great mini donut bites.

Place all the cut donuts on the parchment paper. Leave a little space between each one.

Second Proofing

This step gives your donuts a light, airy feel.

Importance of the Second Rise

This second rise lets the dough puff up again. It makes the donuts soft inside and helps them hold their shape when cooking.

Don’t skip it. It’s a key part of the process.

Optimal Proofing Conditions

Cover the shaped donuts with a clean towel.
Let them rest for 30 to 45 minutes.
Keep them in a warm spot, away from drafts.

The dough should look a bit puffy but not too soft. If they rise too long, they might collapse when cooking.

After this, they’re ready for the air fryer. It’s almost time to cook!

Air Frying Process

Preparing the Air Fryer

Before you start cooking, get your air fryer ready.

Preheating Guidelines

Some air fryers need to be preheated. Others don’t. Check your model’s manual to be sure.

If your oven needs preheating:

Set it to 350°F (180°C).
Let it heat for about 3–5 minutes.

A warm fryer helps the donuts cook evenly.

Arranging Donuts in the Basket

Cut out squares of parchment paper for each donut.
Place each donut on a square.
Put them in the basket one at a time.

Don’t overcrowd. Leave space between each donut so air can flow.

You may need to cook in batches. That’s fine.

Cooking the Donuts

Here comes the fun part—cooking those donuts to golden perfection.

Recommended Temperature and Time Settings

Set the air fryer to 350°F (180°C).
Cook for 5 to 6 minutes.
Flip halfway through for even browning.

They should be golden on both sides. If not, add 1 more minute.

Check one before cooking the next batch. Not all air fryers cook the same.

Tips for Even Cooking

Don’t skip flipping the donuts.
Spray lightly with oil for a better crust.
Keep an eye on the color.

The donuts should be puffed and lightly golden. Not too dark. Not too pale.

Once done, let them cool for a minute or two. Then, it’s time to glaze, coat, or fill them.

Ready to dress them up? Let’s go to toppings next.

Glazing and Topping

Classic Donut Glaze Recipe

Let’s add some sweetness. A basic glaze is quick and easy to make.

Ingredients and Preparation

You only need three things:

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Here’s what to do:

Mix the sugar, milk, and vanilla in a bowl.
Stir until smooth.
If it’s too thick, add a little more milk.
If it’s too thin, add more sugar.

That’s it. Your glaze is ready to use.

Dipping Techniques for a Smooth Finish

Hold the donut gently by the edges.
Dip the top side into the glaze.
Lift it out and let the extra glaze drip off.
Place on a rack or parchment paper to set.

Let them sit for a few minutes so the glaze can harden a bit. It adds a lovely shine.

Alternative Toppings

Not a fan of glaze? No problem. Try these simple toppings instead.

Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Mix 1/2 cup sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
Brush warm donuts with melted butter.
Roll them in the cinnamon sugar mix.

It’s sweet, warm, and crunchy—so good.

Chocolate and Other Flavored Glazes

For a chocolate glaze:

Melt 1/2 cup chocolate chips with 1 tablespoon butter.
Stir until smooth.

You can also try:

Maple glaze
Strawberry glaze
Lemon glaze

Just swap out the flavoring in the basic glaze.

Adding Sprinkles, Nuts, and Other Decorations

Top your glazed donuts right away—before the glaze sets.

Add rainbow sprinkles.
Use chopped nuts.
Try shredded coconut or crushed cookies.

Be creative. There’s no wrong way to top a donut.

Next, we’ll explore some fun and easy variations—including shortcuts and diet-friendly options.

Variations of Air Fryer Donuts

Using Pre-Made Dough Options

Don’t feel like making dough from scratch? No worries. You’ve got options.

Canned Biscuit Dough Donuts

This is the fastest way to make air fryer donuts.

Use store-bought biscuit dough.
Separate the biscuits.
Cut out the center with a small cutter.
Air fry just like regular donuts.

They come out soft and golden. You can glaze or coat them right away.

It’s a great shortcut for busy days.

Frozen Bread Dough Adaptations

You can also use frozen bread dough.

Thaw the dough fully.
Roll it out and shape it like regular donuts.
Let it rise before cooking.

It takes longer, but the texture is chewy and light.

Vegan and Gluten-Free Alternatives

You can still enjoy donuts even with diet needs.

Substituting Ingredients for Dietary Restrictions

For vegan donuts:

Use non-dairy milk (like almond or oat).
Swap butter for plant-based margarine.
Replace the egg with applesauce or flaxseed.

For gluten-free:

Use a gluten-free flour blend.
Add a binding agent like xanthan gum if needed.

These swaps still give soft, tasty donuts.

Ensuring Proper Texture and Flavor

The dough may feel different. That’s okay.

Let it rest longer.
Be gentle when shaping.
Cook at the same temp, but watch closely.

You may need to test one donut before cooking all of them.

Diet-friendly doesn’t mean flavorless. With the right swaps, you still get that donut joy.

Next, we’ll help you fix common problems if things don’t go as planned.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Addressing Dough Consistency Problems

Sometimes, the dough feels too sticky. Other times, it’s too dry.

Here’s what to do:

Too sticky? Add a little flour. Mix again. Add more only if needed.
Too dry? Add a teaspoon of milk or water. Mix gently.

The dough should be soft and easy to handle—not too wet, not too stiff.

If using gluten-free flour, the dough may crack. That’s normal. Add more liquid slowly until it feels better.

Solutions for Under or Overcooked Donuts

If your donuts are still raw inside:

Try cooking longer. Add 1–2 minutes.
Make sure your air fryer is fully preheated.
Don’t stack donuts or crowd the basket.

If they’re too brown or hard:

Lower the temperature by 10–15 degrees.
Check at the halfway point.
Don’t cook it too long. Air fryers work fast.

Every air fryer is a bit different. Test one donut before doing a full batch.

Preventing Uneven Cooking

Uneven color or texture? Here’s why it might happen:

You didn’t flip the donuts halfway.
The fryer was too full.
One donut was thicker than the others.

To fix it:

Flip each donut halfway through cooking.
Cook in small batches.
Try to make all the donuts the same size.

Don’t worry if your first try isn’t perfect. You’ll get the hang of it quickly.

Next, let’s talk about how to clean your air fryer the right way.

Cleaning and Maintenance of Your Air Fryer

Effective Cleaning Techniques

Air fryers are simple to clean. But you still need to do it right.

Removing Grease and Residue

After each use:

Unplug the air fryer.
Let it cool fully.
Take out the basket and tray.

Now, wash the parts:

Use warm water and dish soap.
A soft sponge works best.
Avoid metal scrubbers. They can scratch the surface.

If food is stuck:

Soak the basket in warm soapy water for 10–15 minutes.
Then scrub gently.

Wipe the inside of the air fryer with a damp cloth. Don’t use too much water.

Dry all parts before putting them back.

Regular Maintenance Tips

Clean your air fryer often. It helps it last longer and work better.

Wipe the heating coil once a month.
Use a dry brush to remove crumbs or dust.
Check for grease buildup near the fan.

Always follow your fryer’s manual for cleaning tips. Different brands may have small rules.

Ensuring Longevity of Your Appliance

Want your air fryer to stay in good shape? Here’s how:

Don’t use metal tools in the basket.
Avoid cooking foods that drip too much grease.
Clean it after every few uses—don’t wait too long.

Store it in a dry place. Cover it if you don’t use it often.

Taking care of your fryer means better donuts every time.

Next up, we’ll answer the most common questions people ask about air fryer donuts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can you make donuts from scratch in an air fryer?

Yes, you can. Use simple ingredients like flour, yeast, and milk. Let the dough rise, shape it, then cook in the air fryer. It’s easier than deep frying and uses less oil.

How do air fryer donuts compare in taste to deep-fried ones?

They taste very close. Air fryer donuts are light and soft. Deep-fried ones are richer because of the oil. But air-fried donuts are less greasy and feel lighter.

What are the health benefits of air frying donuts?

Air fryer donuts use little or no oil. That means fewer calories and less fat. They’re better if you watch your diet. You also avoid the heavy feeling after eating fried food.

Can I use store-bought dough for air fryer donuts?

Yes. Canned biscuit dough or frozen bread dough works great. It saves time and still tastes good. Just shape, cook, and enjoy.

How do I prevent donuts from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Use parchment paper under each donut. You can also spray a little oil on the basket. This helps keep the donuts from sticking or tearing.

Are there vegan options for air fryer donuts?

Yes. Use plant-based milk and butter. Swap eggs with applesauce or a flaxseed mix. There are also vegan glaze options like maple or powdered sugar.

How should I store leftover Air Fryer donuts?

Keep them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for 1–2 days at room temperature. You can also freeze them. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to make them warm again.

Have more questions? Try different methods until you find what works best for you. Donuts are all about fun and flavor.

Conclusion

Air fryer donuts are a game-changer. They’re simple, quick, and much healthier than deep-fried ones. You don’t need fancy tools. Just a few basic ingredients and your air fryer.

Making them at home is fun. You can go classic with glaze or try bold flavors. Use pre-made dough or make your own from scratch. It all works.

They’re lighter, less greasy, and still taste amazing. Great for a sweet treat without the mess.

Once you try them, you might not go back to deep frying. They’re perfect for busy mornings, lazy weekends, or anytime you want something sweet.

So go ahead—grab your air fryer, mix that dough, and make your kitchen smell like a bakery. Fresh, warm donuts are just minutes away.

Air Fryer Donuts: Easy, Healthier, and Totally Delicious

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Author: Amanda Thompson
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 8-10 donuts 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Air fryer donuts are a healthier and quicker way to enjoy a crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside treat without the mess of deep frying. Using simple ingredients, you can create mouthwatering donuts in just a few minutes, all with less oil and fewer calories.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup warm milk
1 tablespoon sugar
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 egg
2 tablespoons melted butter
2 tablespoons sugar (for dough)
Optional fillings: jam, jelly, chocolate
Optional toppings: powdered sugar, cinnamon sugar, chocolate glaze, sprinkles, nuts

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Instructions

Warm the milk and add the sugar and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until bubbly.
In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, egg, butter, and additional sugar. Stir to form dough.
Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth. Let the dough rise in a greased bowl for 1-2 hours, covered.
Roll out the dough on a floured surface, about 1/2 inch thick. Cut out donut shapes.
Let the shaped donuts rest for 30-45 minutes for a second rise.
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (180°C). Place donuts on parchment paper and cook for 5-6 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Once done, glaze or coat with desired toppings.

Notes

Use parchment paper to prevent donuts from sticking.

Experiment with different glazes or coatings like cinnamon sugar, chocolate, or powdered sugar.

For a vegan version, substitute milk with plant-based milk and butter with margarine.

Prep Time: 1 hour (for dough rise)
Cook Time: 5-6 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American