Description
These easy air fryer donuts are a delicious treat made from a soft yeast dough, air-fried to perfection for a golden and crispy exterior, and finished with a sweet vanilla glaze. Perfect for a homemade indulgence without the deep-frying mess.
Ingredients
Scale
Donuts Dough
- 1 cup milk, lukewarm (about 100°F)
- 2 1/2 tsp active dry yeast or instant yeast
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar plus 1 tsp
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- Oil spray (coconut oil works best)
Glaze
- 6 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 Tbsp hot water, or as needed
Instructions
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer for a few minutes to reach the necessary hot temperature, ensuring your donuts will cook to a golden crisp texture. Avoid overheating by not leaving it too long.
- Arrange Donuts in Air Fryer: Place the donuts carefully in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, leaving space between each so hot air can circulate for even cooking and to achieve crispiness.
- Cook Until Golden Brown: Air fry the donuts for about four minutes, watching them closely to prevent overcooking. They should develop a golden color and a wonderful aroma when done.
- Let Cool for a Moment: Remove the donuts and allow them to cool slightly so they firm up, which will help the glaze adhere better without melting off immediately.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the donuts cool, combine melted butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and hot water to create a smooth glaze. Adjust with more water if it’s too thick or more sugar if too thin, aiming for a shiny coating consistency.
- Dunk & Enjoy: Dip each cooled donut into the glaze to coat thoroughly. Allow excess glaze to drip off before serving to avoid mess and fully enjoy your delicious donuts.
Notes
- Make sure the milk is lukewarm (not hot) to activate the yeast properly.
- Donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days.
- If you don’t have a donut cutter, you can use two round cutters (large and small) to shape the donuts.
- Adjust glaze thickness as needed to ensure it coats well but doesn’t drip excessively.
- Use coconut oil spray in the air fryer basket for the best non-stick results.
