Can You Make Donuts in an Air Fryer Discover the Easy Method

Yes, you can make delicious, fluffy donuts in an air fryer—no deep frying required! This easy method cuts down on oil and time while delivering perfectly golden, crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside treats in under 10 minutes. From store-bought dough to homemade batter, the air fryer simplifies donut-making without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Key Takeaways

• Yes, you can make donuts in an air fryer with minimal oil and effort.
• Use store-bought dough to save time and ensure consistent results.
• Preheat the air fryer for evenly cooked, golden-brown donuts.
• Spray lightly with oil to enhance crispiness without excess fat.
• Flip halfway through for uniform browning and perfect texture.
• Customize with glazes or toppings after frying for personalized flavors.

Can You Make Donuts in an Air Fryer? Discover the Easy Method

For years, donuts have been a beloved treat, synonymous with indulgence, comfort, and that unmistakable aroma of fried dough. Traditionally, making donuts involved deep-frying in hot oil—messy, time-consuming, and not exactly the healthiest option. Enter the air fryer: the kitchen gadget that’s taken the culinary world by storm. With its promise of crispy, golden results using little to no oil, the air fryer has become a staple in many homes. But can you make donuts in an air fryer? The answer is a resounding yes—and not only can you, but the results are often lighter, less greasy, and just as delicious as their deep-fried counterparts.

The air fryer’s convection technology circulates hot air around the food, creating a crisp exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. This makes it ideal for baking donuts without the need for a vat of oil. Whether you’re craving classic glazed, cinnamon sugar, or even filled varieties like jelly or custard, the air fryer can handle it all. What’s more, the process is faster, cleaner, and significantly more accessible for home cooks. No more dealing with splattering oil or waiting for a fryer to heat up. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making donuts in an air fryer—from the science behind it to step-by-step recipes, troubleshooting tips, and flavor variations. Get ready to revolutionize your donut game with this easy, foolproof method.

The Science Behind Air Fryer Donuts

Understanding how air fryers work is key to mastering donut-making in this appliance. Unlike traditional ovens or deep fryers, air fryers use rapid air circulation to create a convection effect, mimicking the crispiness of deep-frying with minimal oil. But how does this translate to donuts, which rely on both texture and structure?

How Air Fryers Cook Dough

Air fryers operate by circulating hot air at high speeds around the food, creating a Maillard reaction—the same browning process that occurs when food is fried or seared. For donuts, this means the exterior develops a golden, slightly crisp crust while the interior remains tender and moist. The key difference from deep-frying is the absence of submersion in oil, which results in a lighter texture and fewer calories. However, because air fryers have a smaller cooking space and less thermal mass than ovens, donuts cook faster and more evenly, reducing the risk of undercooked centers or burnt edges.

Texture vs. Traditional Donuts

While air fryer donuts won’t have the exact same texture as deep-fried ones, the results are remarkably close. Deep-fried donuts are known for their dense, oily mouthfeel, whereas air fryer donuts are lighter and airier. The crust is less greasy and more delicate, with a slight crunch that gives way to a soft, cake-like interior. For those seeking a healthier option without sacrificing flavor, air fryer donuts are a win-win. Additionally, the absence of oil means less flavor absorption, so your donuts will taste cleaner and more true to the ingredients—whether it’s vanilla, cinnamon, or chocolate glaze.

Temperature and Timing Considerations

Most air fryer donuts cook at temperatures between 325°F and 375°F (160°C–190°C), with cook times ranging from 6 to 12 minutes, depending on the recipe and donut size. It’s crucial to preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking, and to avoid overcrowding the basket—leave at least 1 inch of space between donuts for proper air circulation. For best results, lightly spray or brush the donuts with oil or melted butter before cooking to enhance crispiness. A digital thermometer can be handy to check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C) for fully cooked dough.

Essential Tools and Ingredients

Making donuts in an air fryer doesn’t require a long list of specialty tools, but having the right equipment and ingredients will make the process smoother and more consistent. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Must-Have Equipment

• Air Fryer: Any model works, but larger baskets (5.8–6.5 quarts) allow for better air circulation. If your model has a rotating basket, use it for even cooking.
• Donut Pan (Optional): Silicone or metal donut molds help maintain shape, especially for yeast-based recipes. For cake donuts, you can shape by hand or use a piping bag.
• Piping Bag and Tips: Useful for filled donuts (e.g., jelly or custard). A star tip creates classic ridges for glaze adherence.
• Silicone Spatula and Pastry Brush: For handling dough and applying oil or glaze.
• Cooling Rack: Prevents condensation and keeps donuts crisp after cooking.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

• Flour: All-purpose or cake flour works well. For gluten-free options, use a 1:1 blend.
• Leavening Agents: Baking powder (for cake donuts) or active dry yeast (for yeast donuts). Ensure they’re fresh for optimal rise.
• Sugar: White, brown, or coconut sugar for flavor. Reduce sugar slightly if using sweet glazes.
• Dairy: Milk, buttermilk, or plant-based alternatives (e.g., almond milk). Buttermilk adds tang and tenderness.
• Eggs: Bind the dough. For vegan donuts, use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg).
• Fat: Melted butter or oil (coconut, vegetable, or olive). Oil keeps donuts moist; butter adds richness.
• Flavorings: Vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, citrus zest, etc.
• Oil for Spraying: Avocado, canola, or olive oil spray for crispiness.

Pro Tips for Success

• Preheat the air fryer for 3–5 minutes before adding donuts to ensure even cooking.
• Work quickly with dough to prevent overhandling, which can lead to tough donuts.
• Use parchment paper liners if your air fryer basket is prone to sticking (cut to fit).
• Don’t skip the oil spray—it’s crucial for achieving a golden crust.
• Test a single donut first to adjust cook time/temperature before cooking a full batch.

Step-by-Step: Classic Air Fryer Cake Donuts

Cake donuts are the easiest and most versatile option for air fryers. They’re tender, sweet, and perfect for glazes, cinnamon sugar, or sprinkles. Follow this foolproof recipe for bakery-quality results at home.

Ingredients (Makes 12 donuts)

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
• 2/3 cup (160ml) buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp (30g) melted butter or oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Avocado oil spray, for coating

Instructions

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
3. Form Dough: Pour wet ingredients into dry and stir until just combined. The dough will be thick. Do not overmix.
4. Shape Donuts: Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll to 1/2-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter (or 3-inch round cutter + 1-inch center cutter) to cut 12 donuts and 12 holes. Re-roll scraps as needed.
5. Preheat Air Fryer: Set to 350°F (175°C) and preheat for 3 minutes.
6. Coat and Cook: Lightly spray donuts with oil. Place 4–6 in the basket (leave space!). Cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 190°F).
7. Cool and Decorate: Transfer to a cooling rack. Repeat with remaining donuts. Decorate while warm (see glaze options below).

Glaze and Topping Ideas

• Vanilla Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tbsp milk + 1/2 tsp vanilla. Dip donuts and let set.
• Chocolate Glaze: Melt 1/2 cup chocolate chips + 2 tbsp butter + 1 tbsp corn syrup. Dip and add sprinkles.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Mix 1/4 cup sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon. Toss warm donuts in mixture.
• Maple Glaze: 1/2 cup powdered sugar + 1 tbsp maple syrup + 1 tsp water. Drizzle with a fork.

Advanced Recipes: Yeast and Filled Donuts

Once you’ve mastered cake donuts, it’s time to level up with yeast-based and filled varieties. These recipes require a bit more time but deliver the classic, fluffy texture and decadent fillings you crave.

Air Fryer Yeast Donuts (Classic Style)

• Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups (315g) bread flour, 1/4 cup (50g) sugar, 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast, 1/2 tsp salt, 3/4 cup (180ml) warm milk (110°F), 1 egg, 2 tbsp (30g) melted butter, 1 tsp vanilla.
• Process:
  1. Activate yeast: Mix yeast, 1 tsp sugar, and warm milk. Let sit 5 minutes until foamy.
  2. Combine: Add yeast mixture, egg, butter, and vanilla to flour/sugar/salt. Knead 5–7 minutes until smooth.
  3. First Rise: Cover and let rise 1 hour until doubled.
  4. Shape: Roll dough to 1/2-inch thickness. Cut donuts. Let rise 15–20 minutes.
  5. Cook: Air fry at 325°F (160°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.

Filled Donuts: Jelly, Custard, and More

• Tools: Piping bag with small round tip.
• Fillings:
  • Jelly: Use store-bought or homemade fruit preserves. Insert tip into the side of cooled donuts and pipe 1–2 tsp filling.
  • Custard: Vanilla pastry cream (2 egg yolks, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 cup milk, 2 tbsp cornstarch, 1 tsp vanilla). Cool completely before filling.
  • Chocolate Ganache: Heat 1/2 cup cream + 1/2 cup chocolate chips until smooth. Cool to thicken.
• Pro Tip: For a cleaner presentation, cut a small slit in the donut side with a knife before piping.

Flavor Variations

• Matcha Donuts: Add 1 tbsp matcha powder to dry ingredients. Glaze with white chocolate.
• Lemon Blueberry: Fold in 1/2 cup fresh blueberries. Glaze with lemon zest + powdered sugar.
• Pumpkin Spice: Replace 1/4 cup flour with pumpkin puree. Add 1 tsp pumpkin spice to dry mix.

Troubleshooting and Expert Tips

Even the best recipes can run into issues. Here’s how to fix common problems and elevate your air fryer donut game.

Common Problems and Solutions

Issue	Cause	Solution
Donuts are too dense	Overmixing dough or expired leavening agents	Mix until just combined. Replace baking powder/yeast if older than 6 months.
Donuts are burnt outside, raw inside	Too high temperature or overcrowding	Reduce temperature to 325°F. Leave space between donuts.
Donuts stick to basket	Insufficient oil or non-stick coating	Spray donuts and basket generously with oil. Use parchment liners.
Glaze won’t stick	Donuts are too cool or glaze is too thick	Glaze while donuts are warm. Thin glaze with 1 tsp milk if needed.

Expert Tips for Perfection

• Use a timer: Air fryers vary, so set a timer for the lower end of the recommended time and check early.
• Rotate donuts: Flip halfway through cooking for even browning.
• Store properly: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Re-crisp in the air fryer for 1–2 minutes.
• Freeze for later: Wrap cooled donuts in plastic and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat in the air fryer.
• Experiment with shapes: Try donut holes, twists, or mini donuts for variety.

Scaling and Batch Cooking

• For large batches, cook donuts in multiple batches and keep warm in a 200°F oven.
• Double recipes easily, but avoid overfilling the air fryer basket.
• For parties, prepare dough the night before and shape/cook the next day.

Conclusion: Why Air Fryer Donuts Are a Game-Changer

Making donuts in an air fryer isn’t just possible—it’s a revelation. From the ease of preparation to the lighter, healthier results, air fryer donuts offer a modern twist on a timeless treat. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a simple recipe or an experienced baker craving filled or yeast-based varieties, the air fryer delivers consistent, delicious results with minimal mess. The ability to customize flavors, glazes, and fillings means there’s no limit to your creativity. Plus, the reduced oil content makes it a guilt-free indulgence that the whole family can enjoy.

Beyond the practical benefits, air fryer donuts are a testament to how innovation can transform traditional cooking methods. No longer do you need a deep fryer or a professional oven to achieve bakery-quality donuts at home. With just a few ingredients, a handful of tools, and a little know-how, you can whip up a batch of golden, fluffy, and flavorful donuts in under 30 minutes. So, the next time a donut craving hits, skip the drive-thru and reach for your air fryer. Your taste buds (and your waistline) will thank you. Happy frying—er, air frying!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make donuts in an air fryer without using oil?

Yes, you can make donuts in an air fryer with little to no oil, thanks to its rapid air circulation that crisps the exterior. This method reduces fat while still delivering a satisfying texture.

What’s the easiest way to make air fryer donuts from scratch?

The easiest method starts with a simple dough of flour, sugar, baking powder, milk, and butter, shaped into rings and air-fried at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. No deep-frying or complicated steps required!

Can you make donuts in an air fryer using canned biscuit dough?

Absolutely! Pillsbury canned biscuits are a quick base—just shape them into rings, spray lightly with oil, and air fry for 5-6 minutes. A perfect shortcut for homemade-style donuts.

Do air fryer donuts taste as good as traditional fried ones?

While the texture is slightly less greasy, air fryer donuts still deliver a golden, crispy exterior and soft interior. With the right glaze or cinnamon sugar, they taste nearly identical to classic donuts.

How long do air fryer donuts take to cook compared to baking?

Air fryer donuts cook in 5-7 minutes, faster than a conventional oven (which takes 10-12 minutes). The air fryer’s concentrated heat speeds up the process without drying them out.

Can you make donuts in an air fryer with gluten-free ingredients?

Yes! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend and follow the same method. Just ensure the dough holds its shape before air frying for consistent results.