Craving warm, fluffy donuts without the hassle of deep-frying? These Irresistible Air Fryer Donuts are a game-changer! Made with pantry staples and no messy oil, they deliver classic donut flavor with a healthier twist. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a fun family treat, these donuts are light on the outside, tender inside, and ready in under an hour.
This yeast-based recipe ensures a soft, chewy bite, while the air fryer crisps them to golden perfection. You can customize them with cinnamon sugar, glazes, or fillings—whatever suits your craving. Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, this foolproof recipe makes homemade donuts easy and delicious.
Why You’ll Love This
These air fryer donuts are everything you want in a homemade treat—fluffy, tasty, and super simple to make. Here’s why they’ll be your new favorite:
- Healthier Option: No deep-frying means less fat but all the flavor.
- Quick & Easy: From dough to donut in under an hour.
- Customizable: Glaze, sugar, sprinkles—make them your way.
- Kid-Friendly: Fun to make and eat!
- Minimal Cleanup: No oil splatter or sticky mess.
Whether you’re baking for a special morning or just want a quick dessert, these donuts are a fast favorite that brings bakery vibes right into your kitchen.
What You’ll Need
To make these soft, fluffy air fryer donuts, you’ll need simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s a quick rundown:
Dough Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Spoon and level for accuracy.
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast – One standard packet.
- ¼ cup warm water (110°F) – Helps activate the yeast.
- ½ cup warm milk (110°F) – Whole milk works best.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness.
- 1 large egg – For richness and structure.
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (melted) – Adds flavor and softness.
- ½ tsp salt – Balances the sweetness.
Toppings (Optional):
- Melted butter – For brushing after air frying.
- Cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar – Classic finishes.
- Vanilla glaze – Powdered sugar + milk + vanilla extract.
These ingredients come together to make donuts that are tender, lightly sweet, and full of homemade goodness.
How to Make (Include Full Measurements)
Making air fryer donuts at home is easier than you think. Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Activate the Yeast
In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup warm water and 2 ¼ tsp yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. - Make the Dough
In a large bowl, mix the yeast mixture with ½ cup warm milk, ¼ cup sugar, 1 egg, 3 tbsp melted butter, and ½ tsp salt. Gradually add 2 ½ cups flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Knead for 5–6 minutes until smooth. - First Rise
Cover the dough and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size. - Shape the Donuts
Roll out dough to about ½ inch thick. Use a donut cutter (or a large and small round cutter) to form donut shapes. - Second Rise
Place donuts on parchment-lined trays and let rise again for 20–30 minutes. - Air Fry
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Lightly spray donuts with oil and air fry in batches for 4–5 minutes until golden. - Finish
Brush with melted butter and coat with cinnamon sugar or drizzle with glaze while warm.
These donuts are best served fresh but can be stored and reheated—more on that in a bit!
You Must Know
Before you get started, here are key tips to keep your donuts fluffy and perfect:
- Warm liquids only – Yeast dies in hot temps. Keep water/milk around 110°F.
- Let the dough rise fully – Rushing leads to dense donuts.
- Don’t add too much flour – Extra flour = tough texture.
- Cook in batches – Overcrowding the air fryer = uneven cooking.
- Check early – Some air fryers cook faster than others.
Keep these simple tips in mind for soft, golden donuts every time.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Want perfect results? Here’s how:
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F for even cooking.
- Use oil spray lightly to prevent sticking and help with browning.
- Don’t overcrowd – Leave space between donuts for air to circulate.
- Flip halfway (optional) if your air fryer browns unevenly.
- Let them cool briefly before glazing so toppings stick better.
These small steps make a big difference in texture, taste, and appearance!
Add Your Touch
One of the best things about air fryer donuts is how easy they are to customize! Try these tasty ideas:
- Cinnamon Sugar – Toss warm donuts in a mix of sugar and cinnamon for a classic twist.
- Vanilla Glaze – Mix 1 cup powdered sugar, 2–3 tbsp milk, and ½ tsp vanilla extract. Dip cooled donuts and let set.
- Chocolate Dip – Melt chocolate chips with a splash of milk, then dunk or drizzle.
- Sprinkles or Nuts – Add a fun crunch or color before the glaze sets.
- Filled Donuts – Skip the hole, air fry the rounds, and fill with jam, custard, or chocolate cream using a piping bag.
Let your creativity shine—these donuts are the perfect base for endless flavor combos.
Storing & Reheating
Fresh is best, but you can still enjoy leftovers!
If you love easy recipes, this one’s a keeper.
- To Store: Keep in an airtight container at room temp for up to 2 days. Avoid the fridge—it can dry them out.
- To Reheat: Warm in the air fryer at 300°F for 2–3 minutes or microwave for 10–15 seconds to soften.
- To Freeze: Skip the glaze, freeze in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw and warm before adding toppings.
Proper storage keeps your donuts fluffy and flavorful even the next day!
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Want bakery-style donuts at home? These expert tips will help:
Try this cozy recipe your whole family will love.
- Proof in a warm spot – If your kitchen is chilly, place dough in a slightly warm (turned-off) oven to rise faster.
- Use a donut cutter – For best shape, but a wide cup and bottle cap also work!
- Check doneness early – Start checking at 4 minutes; air fryers vary.
- Grease parchment if using – Helps prevent sticking while loading into the air fryer.
- Glaze while slightly warm – It sticks better and sets nicely.
These simple tricks help you nail that soft, fluffy inside with a golden outside—every time.
FAQ
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! Let it rise once, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Shape and rise again before air frying.
Add this crowd-pleaser to your dinner rotation.
Can I skip the yeast?
This recipe is yeast-based for fluffiness. For a quicker version, try biscuit dough—but the texture will be different.
Do I need to flip them while cooking?
Not always. If your air fryer browns unevenly, flip halfway through for an even color.
Can I make donut holes?
Absolutely! Use the dough centers and cook for 2–3 minutes. They’re perfect bite-size treats.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! The process is safe and fun—kids love cutting shapes and adding toppings.
Conclusion
Air fryer donuts are the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. With simple ingredients, less oil, and fast cook times, they offer that nostalgic bakery-style flavor without the mess of deep frying. Whether you’re keeping it classic with cinnamon sugar or getting creative with glazes and fillings, this recipe makes it easy to enjoy homemade donuts anytime.
They’re great for weekend treats, special breakfasts, or sweet snacks during the week. Plus, with minimal cleanup and customizable options, this recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen. So grab your air fryer, whip up a batch, and enjoy warm, fluffy donuts that are sure to impress.
How to Make Fluffy Air Fryer Donuts – Irresistible & Delicious!
Description
Fluffy, golden donuts made quickly and easily in your air fryer. A healthier twist on a classic treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
Instructions
Activate yeast in warm water until foamy (5–10 mins).
Mix yeast with milk, sugar, egg, butter, salt, and flour to form dough.
Knead until smooth; let rise 1 hour until doubled.
Roll dough to ½ inch thickness, cut donut shapes.
Let donuts rise 20–30 mins.
Air fry at 350°F for 4–5 mins until golden.
Brush with butter and coat with cinnamon sugar or glaze.
Notes
- Use warm liquids to activate yeast properly.
Avoid over-flouring dough for soft texture.
Cook donuts in batches for even crispness.
Let donuts cool slightly before glazing.