Air Fryer Glazed Donuts

This easy recipe for Air Fryer Glazed Donuts makes the best homemade donuts in the world! Fried without any oil, these donuts are light, fluffy, and topped with a smooth, sweet glaze. Perfect for breakfast or as a delightful treat for any occasion, they will surely impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have delicious donuts ready in no time.
• Healthier Option – Air frying reduces the need for oil, making these donuts a lighter choice compared to traditional fried varieties.
• Gluten-Free Friendly – Using 1:1 gluten-free flour ensures that everyone can enjoy these tasty treats without worry.
• Customizable Flavors – You can add your favorite spices or toppings to make these donuts uniquely yours.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, these donuts fit right in at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process seamless and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rolling pin
• Donut cutter (or two round cookie cutters)
• Baking sheet or plate

Importance of Each Tool

• Air Fryer – This is the star of the show! It cooks the donuts evenly without oil while keeping them light and fluffy.
• Mixing Bowls – Essential for combining ingredients smoothly and efficiently.
• Donut Cutter – It helps create perfectly shaped donuts that are consistent in size for even cooking.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

To make these delightful Air Fryer Glazed Donuts, you will need:

For the Donuts

• 3 cups 1:1 gluten-free flour, divided (King Arthur Measure for Measure or Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1)
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 1/2 teaspoons instant dry yeast
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm milk, about 110°F
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted for brushing over donuts

For the Glaze

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons milk

How to Make Air Fryer Glazed Donuts

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by mixing together the dry ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
– The divided gluten-free flour (reserve some for dusting)
– Sugar
– Instant dry yeast
– Salt

Whisk until well blended.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix:
– Warm milk
– Melted butter
– Egg
– Vanilla extract

Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until combined into a soft dough. If needed, add more flour to achieve a non-sticky consistency.

Step 3: Let it Rise

Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let it sit in a warm place for about 30 minutes. The dough should double in size.

Step 4: Shape Your Donuts

Once risen, turn out the dough onto a floured surface. Roll it out to about ½ inch thick. Use your donut cutter to cut out shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your donuts.

Step 6: Cook the Donuts

Brush each donut with melted butter before placing them in the air fryer basket. Cook them in batches for about 5 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze

While the donuts cool slightly, whisk together powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Adjust consistency as needed with more milk or powdered sugar.

Step 8: Glaze Your Donuts

Dip each donut into the glaze until fully covered. Place on a cooling rack to set before serving.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Air Fryer Glazed Donuts!

How to Serve Air Fryer Glazed Donuts

Air Fryer Glazed Donuts are versatile and can be enjoyed in many delightful ways. Whether it’s breakfast or a sweet treat, these donuts can fit the occasion perfectly.

Classic Coffee Pairing

• Enjoy your donuts with a warm cup of coffee. The rich flavors of coffee balance the sweetness of the glaze.

Chocolate Drizzle

• Enhance your donuts by drizzling melted chocolate on top. This adds a decadent touch that chocolate lovers will adore.

Fresh Fruit Topping

• Top your donuts with slices of fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas. This adds a refreshing twist and makes them more nutritious.

Ice Cream Sandwich

• Create an indulgent dessert by sandwiching a scoop of your favorite ice cream between two glazed donuts. Perfect for a summer treat!

Whipped Cream and Berries

• Serve your donuts with a dollop of whipped cream and a handful of berries for an elegant presentation that’s great for brunch.

Nut Butter Spread

• Spread some almond or peanut butter on your donut halves for added protein and flavor, making them even more satisfying.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Glazed Donuts

To achieve perfectly fluffy and delicious Air Fryer Glazed Donuts, consider these helpful tips:

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure that your egg and milk are at room temperature to help create a smooth batter and enhance the rise of the donuts.

• Don’t overmix the dough: Mix until just combined to keep your donuts light and airy. Overmixing can lead to dense results.

• Let the dough rise properly: Allow enough time for the dough to rise in a warm place. This step is crucial for achieving fluffy donuts.

• Preheat the air fryer: Preheating ensures even cooking and helps the donuts achieve that perfect golden-brown color on the outside.

• Brush with butter before glazing: Brushing melted butter on the warm donuts helps the glaze stick better and adds extra richness.

• Experiment with flavors: Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to your dough for an exciting flavor twist in every bite.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Glazed Donuts

Pairing side dishes with Air Fryer Glazed Donuts can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad
   A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to sweet donuts.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layered yogurt with granola and berries complements the sweetness while adding creaminess and crunch.

3. Savory Breakfast Hash
   A hearty hash made with potatoes, bell peppers, and onions balances out the sweetness of the donuts perfectly.

4. Chia Seed Pudding
   This healthy pudding can be flavored with vanilla or cocoa, providing a nutritious side that pairs well with glazed treats.

5. Smoothie Bowl
   A thick smoothie topped with nuts, seeds, and fruits creates a vibrant dish that’s both filling and delicious alongside donuts.

6. Granola Bars
   Homemade granola bars add texture and nutrients while still being easy to grab alongside your sweet donut indulgence.

7. Cottage Cheese Bowl
   Cottage cheese topped with honey and nuts offers a protein-rich side that balances out the sweetness of your glazed donuts.

8. Herbed Cream Cheese Spread
   Serve this spread on toast or crackers as a savory complement to enjoy alongside your sweet treat!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Air Fryer Glazed Donuts can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch for.

• Bold Ingredients Measurement: Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to dense donuts. Always use a kitchen scale or precise measuring cups.
• Bold Not Allowing Dough to Rise: Skipping the rising time can result in hard donuts. Ensure the dough has doubled in size before cooking.
• Bold Overcrowding the Air Fryer: Placing too many donuts in the air fryer at once can cause uneven cooking. Cook in batches for the best results.
• Bold Ignoring Temperature Settings: Cooking at incorrect temperatures may lead to undercooked or burnt donuts. Preheat your air fryer properly and follow the recommended temperature.
• Bold Forgetting to Brush with Butter: Skipping the butter brush before air frying can make your donuts dry. Melt unsalted butter and brush it on before cooking for a rich flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Air Fryer Glazed Donuts in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Air Fryer Glazed Donuts

• Place cooled donuts in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Air Fryer Glazed Donuts

• Bold Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat donuts for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Bold Microwave: Heat each donut individually for about 10-15 seconds on medium power.
• Bold Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a pan, flipping occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Air Fryer Glazed Donuts?

Air Fryer Glazed Donuts are light, fluffy donuts made without oil, resulting in a healthier alternative to traditional fried donuts.

How long does it take to make Air Fryer Glazed Donuts?

The total time from preparation to cooking is approximately 50 minutes, including rising time.

Can I customize my Air Fryer Glazed Donuts?

Absolutely! You can add different flavors like chocolate or lemon zest, or top with various sprinkles and nuts for extra flair.

Are these donuts gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe uses gluten-free flour, making them suitable for those avoiding gluten while still enjoying delicious donuts.

Final Thoughts

These Air Fryer Glazed Donuts are not only easy to make but also offer a healthier option without sacrificing taste. You can customize them with different glazes or toppings for every occasion. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; your family will love these delightful treats!