Imagine warm, pillowy donuts with a golden crust, perfectly sweet and utterly satisfying. Now picture enjoying that delightful experience without the guilt or the mess of deep-frying. These incredible Air Fryer Donuts offer a healthier, simpler alternative to a classic treat, proving that you do not need to compromise on flavor for wellness.
With a crisp exterior and tender crumb, this recipe is perfect for busy parents and anyone looking for a diabetes-friendly option. You will love how easily these homemade wonders come together.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Donuts
- Irresistible Texture: Enjoy the best of both worlds—a slightly crisp exterior and a beautifully soft, fluffy interior in every bite of these Air Fryer Donuts.
- Remarkably Easy & Quick: Ditch the deep fryer! This recipe minimizes cleanup and slashes cooking time, making homemade air-fried donuts accessible for beginners.
- Healthier Indulgence: Significantly less oil means fewer calories and reduced saturated fat, aligning perfectly with a balanced, diabetes-friendly eating plan.
- Customizable Flavors: From classic glazes to cinnamon sugar, these donuts are a blank canvas for your favorite toppings, allowing for endless delicious variations.
- Kid-Friendly Fun: Get the whole family involved in the simple preparation of these delightful treats, creating cherished memories alongside delicious food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating these delightful Air Fryer Donuts starts with choosing quality ingredients that support your wellness goals. Opt for organic where possible, and always check labels for hidden sugars or unhealthy additives.
- Active Dry Yeast: 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) – Ensure it is fresh for a good rise.
- Warm Water: ½ cup (105-115°F / 40-46°C) – Crucial for activating the yeast.
- Granulated Sweetener: ¼ cup (e.g., erythritol-monk fruit blend or stevia blend) – For sweetness without the blood sugar spike.
- Unsweetened Almond Milk: ½ cup, warmed – Can substitute with any unsweetened plant-based milk.
- Large Egg: 1, at room temperature – Binds the dough and adds richness.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon – Enhances the overall flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: 2 ½ to 3 cups (or a 1:1 blend of whole wheat pastry flour and all-purpose flour for added fiber) – Start with 2 ½ cups and add more as needed.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- Light Olive Oil or Avocado Oil: 2 tablespoons, plus extra for brushing – For a tender dough and to help achieve that golden finish on your air fryer donuts.
- For the Glaze (Optional):
- Powdered Erythritol or Monk Fruit Sweetener: 1 cup – Creates a smooth, sugar-free glaze.
- Unsweetened Almond Milk: 2-3 tablespoons – For desired glaze consistency.
- Vanilla Extract: ¼ teaspoon – For classic glaze flavor.
Substitutions & Variations
As Rocco Fuhrman, I believe in empowering you with choices that fit your dietary needs while keeping things delicious and simple. These healthy Air Fryer Donuts are incredibly versatile, allowing for smart swaps without sacrificing taste or texture.
For the flour, if you are looking to boost fiber, substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour. It offers a slightly denser crumb but adds valuable nutrients. If gluten is a concern, a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend designed for yeast breads often works well, though you may need to adjust liquid slightly.
When it comes to sweeteners, any granulated sugar substitute like allulose or xylitol can replace the erythritol blend. Just be mindful of xylitol if you have pets, as it is toxic to them. Dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use any unsweetened plant-based milk such as oat, soy, or cashew milk. For an extra boost of protein, you can swap a quarter of the flour for a plant-based protein powder, but be aware this may alter the dough’s texture slightly and could require more liquid.
Note: This video is for demonstration purposes and may use a slightly different methode.
Spice up your air-fried donut experience beyond a simple glaze! Consider a cinnamon-sugar topping made with granular erythritol and ground cinnamon for a classic taste. You could also melt a small amount of sugar-free chocolate chips with a touch of coconut oil for a rich, guilt-free chocolate glaze.
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice in your glaze with a hint of lemon zest adds a bright, tangy twist. For a seasonal touch, a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice in the dough elevates the flavor profile beautifully. Remember, healthy eating is about making smart choices that you enjoy, and these variations ensure your homemade Air Fryer Donuts always feel like a special treat.
For more innovative uses of your air fryer, check out this recipe for Air Fryer Mozzarella Donuts, where the classic concept of donuts takes on a cheesy twist for a unique flavor experience.
Equipment You’ll Need
Making these healthy Air Fryer Donuts is a straightforward process, and you likely already own most of the necessary tools. Having the right equipment makes the baking experience smoother and more enjoyable, especially when working with yeast dough.
- Air Fryer: Essential for cooking these donuts to golden perfection without excess oil. Any model with adequate capacity will work.
- Large Mixing Bowl: For combining and kneading the dough.
- Small Microwave-Safe Bowl or Saucepan: To warm the water and milk for yeast activation.
- Whisk: For blending wet ingredients and dry ingredients.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: For mixing the dough.
- Rolling Pin: To flatten the dough evenly.
- Donut Cutter: A specific donut cutter makes perfectly shaped donuts. Alternatively, use two round cookie cutters (one larger for the donut, one smaller for the hole).
- Parchment Paper: Cut into squares, essential for easily transferring the delicate dough to the air fryer basket without sticking.
- Pastry Brush: For lightly brushing the donuts with oil before air frying, ensuring a beautiful golden finish.
- Wire Rack: For cooling the donuts after frying and for glazing.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get started on creating these delicious and healthier Air Fryer Donuts. Follow these clear steps for a successful bake every time. Remember, patience with yeast dough pays off with wonderfully fluffy results.
- Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water and a pinch of your granulated sweetener. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. This indicates the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: To the activated yeast mixture, add the remaining granulated sweetener, warm unsweetened almond milk, egg, and vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until well combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of the all-purpose flour (or flour blend) and the salt. This ensures even distribution.
- Form the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Once most of the flour is incorporated, pour in the 2 tablespoons of light olive oil.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5-7 minutes, adding small amounts of additional flour (up to ½ cup) only if the dough is excessively sticky. You want a soft, elastic dough that springs back when lightly pressed.
- First Rise: Lightly grease the large mixing bowl. Place the dough in the bowl, turning once to coat. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the Donuts: Gently punch down the risen dough to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough to about ½-inch thickness. Using a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters (a 3-inch for the donut and a 1-inch for the hole), cut out your donuts. Gather and re-roll scraps once to make additional donuts.
- Second Rise: Carefully place the cut donuts on individual squares of parchment paper. Arrange them on a baking sheet, ensuring they have space between them. Cover lightly with a towel and let them rise again for 20-30 minutes, or until visibly puffy. This crucial step ensures light and airy air-fried donuts.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Air Fry the Donuts: Working in batches, carefully transfer 2-3 donuts (still on their parchment squares) into the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Lightly brush the tops of the donuts with a tiny bit of olive oil. Air fry for 3-5 minutes, then carefully flip them. Brush the other side with oil and cook for another 2-4 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. The exact time depends on your air fryer model and donut thickness.
- Cool and Glaze: Transfer the cooked Air Fryer Donuts to a wire rack to cool slightly. While they are still warm (but not hot), prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sweetener, almond milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Dip each donut into the glaze, letting excess drip off, then place back on the wire rack to set.
While you’re mastering these Air Fryer Donuts, consider trying something different with this recipe for Creamy Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Rolls, which can add a delightful variety to your dessert repertoire.
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving perfect Air Fryer Donuts requires a little attention to detail, but with these pro tips, you will master the technique quickly. My goal is to empower you with the knowledge to consistently create delicious and healthy treats.
Firstly, ensure your yeast is active. If your water is too hot, it will kill the yeast; too cold, and it will not activate. The ideal temperature is like a warm bath.
A foamy surface after 5-10 minutes confirms viability. Secondly, do not over-flour your dough during kneading or rolling. A slightly sticky dough yields a much softer, fluffier donut.
Only add enough flour to prevent it from sticking unmanageably to your hands or the surface. Thirdly, the second rise is non-negotiable for fluffy homemade air fryer donuts. This is where the donuts get their final boost of air, resulting in a light and airy texture. Do not rush this step.
When it comes to air frying, do not overcrowd the basket. Air fryers work by circulating hot air, and if the basket is too full, the air cannot circulate properly, leading to uneven cooking and soggy donuts. Cook in batches, allowing ample space around each donut.
Use parchment paper squares under each donut for easy transfer. This prevents the delicate dough from sticking to the basket and helps maintain their shape. Lightly brushing the donuts with a small amount of oil before and after flipping is key to achieving that beautiful golden-brown color and a slightly crisp exterior, mimicking a fried texture without the excess fat.
Finally, adjust cooking times as needed. All air fryers vary, so watch your first batch closely. The donuts are done when they are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
Storage & Reheating Tips
To maintain the freshness and delicious texture of your homemade Air Fryer Donuts, proper storage is key. While they are best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly savor them for a little longer with these simple tips.
Store cooled Air Fryer Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If your kitchen is particularly warm or humid, or if they are glazed, you might extend their freshness by storing them in the refrigerator, where they will last for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze unglazed donuts.
Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen donuts at room temperature before reheating. To reheat, pop them back into your air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for 2-3 minutes.
This will crisp up the exterior and warm the interior, making them almost as good as fresh. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them tough and chewy.
To ensure you get the most out of your delicious treats, explore this guide with tips on how to store them properly with Easy Air Fryer Donuts The Ultimate Quick Recipe for fresh and tasty results.
What to Serve With This Recipe
While these Air Fryer Donuts are a delightful treat on their own, pairing them thoughtfully can elevate the experience and contribute to a balanced, diabetes-friendly meal or snack. As Rocco Fuhrman, I always encourage a holistic approach to eating.
Consider serving your warm, fluffy donuts alongside a vibrant bowl of fresh berries—strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries offer natural sweetness and a powerful antioxidant boost. A small, unsweetened Greek yogurt cup provides protein and probiotics, balancing the meal beautifully.
For a refreshing beverage, pair them with a cup of freshly brewed unsweetened coffee or herbal tea. If you are serving them as part of a brunch, a small side salad with a light vinaigrette, or a portion of scrambled eggs with spinach can add essential nutrients and create a more complete meal, demonstrating that treats can still fit into a healthy lifestyle without compromise.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make Air Fryer Donuts gluten-free?
Yes, you absolutely can! Many 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blends are suitable for yeast-based recipes. Look for blends that specifically mention they work well for breads or yeasted doughs.
You might need to adjust the liquid content slightly, as gluten-free flours can absorb moisture differently. Start with the recipe’s specified liquid amount and add more gradually if the dough feels too dry. The texture might be slightly different but still delicious.
How do I prevent my Air Fryer Donuts from drying out?
The key to moist air fryer donuts lies in not overcooking them and ensuring proper dough hydration. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket, and cook in short bursts, checking frequently. Overcooking is the primary culprit for dry donuts.
Also, ensure your dough is well-hydrated during kneading; a slightly sticky dough is usually better than a dry one. Store them in an airtight container once cooled, and consider adding a slice of bread to the container to absorb excess moisture and keep them soft.
Can I prepare the dough for these Air Fryer Donuts ahead of time?
Yes, preparing the dough ahead of time is a fantastic time-saving strategy for these Air Fryer Donuts. After the first rise, punch down the dough, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours.
When you are ready to make the donuts, remove the dough from the refrigerator, let it come to room temperature for about 30-45 minutes, then proceed with shaping, the second rise, and air frying as directed in the recipe. This allows you to enjoy fresh, warm air-fried donuts on demand.
Air fryers have revolutionized cooking, allowing for healthier alternatives to deep-fried foods, including sweet treats like donuts. With their ability to create a crispy outer layer while using significantly less oil, air fryers are an excellent tool for those seeking nutritious yet satisfying dishes, such as air fried desserts.
Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Donuts are more than just a treat; they are a testament to how simple, healthy choices can bring joy and flavor back to your table. Empower yourself and your family with this easy, diabetes-friendly recipe, proving that deliciousness and wellness truly go hand-in-hand.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
(Based on 1 of 12 donuts, estimates without glaze)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 kcal |
| Total Fat | 5g |
| Saturated Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 18mg |
| Sodium | 110mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Total Sugars | 1g |
| Protein | 4g |
Air Fryer Donuts
Ingredients
Method
- Activate the yeast by combining warm water and a pinch of granulated sweetener. Sprinkle yeast over and let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add the remaining granulated sweetener, almond milk, egg, and vanilla extract to the activated yeast mixture. Whisk together until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of flour and salt. Gradually add to wet ingredients until a shaggy dough forms; then add olive oil.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until soft and elastic. Let rise in a greased bowl, covered, for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and roll it to ½-inch thickness. Cut out donuts using a donut cutter. Let them rise for another 20-30 minutes.
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Air fry the donuts in batches, brushing with oil, for a total of 5-9 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool the donuts on a wire rack. Prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sweetener, almond milk, and vanilla. Dip cooled donuts in the glaze and let set.
Notes
Diabetes Nutrition Specialist | Healthy Diet Advocate | Founder of GoldFoodie.
My passion for nutrition began with a deeply personal journey supporting my father through his battle with diabetes. Watching his daily struggles made me realize how powerful the right food choices can be in improving quality of life. That experience drove me to dedicate my career to helping others live healthier, more balanced lives.
- Rocco Fuhrman
- Rocco Fuhrman
- Rocco Fuhrman
- Rocco Fuhrman
